The Middle East’s travel industry is set for a strong rebound in 2025, with international demand driving rapid growth across the region, according to research unveiled at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai.
The “ATM Trends Report: Leisure, Luxury and MICE” by Tourism Economics revealed that global travel is expected to return to pre-pandemic levels this year, with the GCC outperforming the global average. Over 85 percent of the region’s projected accommodation demand growth is being driven by international travellers.
Dave Goodger, Managing Director EMEA at Tourism Economics, noted the GCC’s strategic advantages and strong momentum in attracting tourists. Trip.com Group added that growing interest in entertainment, educational, and elderly travel segments is expanding opportunities, backed by favourable visa policies and robust infrastructure investment.
Further insights from VIDEC Consultants highlighted rising demand in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India for air and hotel bookings through online travel agencies. Founder and CEO Virendra Jain pointed to the region’s digitally savvy youth, strong cultural connections, and booming air connectivity as key growth enablers for religious, wellness, VFR (visiting friends and relatives), and luxury travel.
VIDEC projects the UAE’s total air market will grow to $5.4 billion by 2028, up 32 percent from 2019. OTA bookings are expected to hit $679 million this year, with airline direct channels surpassing $850 million due to enhanced digital experiences and loyalty offerings.
ATM 2025 wraps up tomorrow at Dubai World Trade Centre, having hosted over 55,000 attendees and 2,800 exhibitors from 166 countries under the theme “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.”
News Source: Emirates News Agency
