The Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the leading global event for the travel and tourism sector, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) for its 2025 edition. This collaboration aims to enhance the business events sector at the exhibition, reflecting the growing importance of the Middle East as a hub for international meetings and congresses.
As the official Business Events Partner for ATM 2025, ICCA will lead a series of seminars and discussions focusing on key industry trends, including sustainability, digital transformation, and the integration of AI to enhance event experiences. In addition to curating insightful sessions, ICCA will facilitate the attendance of international association buyers, showcasing the region’s diverse offerings for event planners and its potential to host large-scale global congresses.
ICCA will also launch an exclusive government meeting ranking report during the event, providing data on the Middle East’s growing influence in the business events arena. The organization previously ranked Dubai as the top city in the region for association meetings in 2023, with Abu Dhabi leading in 2022.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME of Arabian Travel Market, commented on the partnership: “Our collaboration with ICCA highlights our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional value to the business events sector. Leveraging ICCA’s global network and insights, we aim to explore the future of business events and capitalize on the rapidly expanding international market.”
Recent insights from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) indicate that the business events sector is poised for a strong recovery, with business travel spending expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels and reach US$1.5 trillion by 2024. Dubai has already secured 175 international business events in the first half of 2024, a 24% increase compared to the previous year, according to Dubai Business Events (DBE).
Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating: “We are thrilled to announce this strategic partnership between ICCA and ATM. Together, we will drive meaningful business engagements, offer valuable insights, and foster connections that will leave a lasting impact on the global meetings industry.”
A key feature of ATM 2025 will be the debut of IBTM @ ATM, a specialized zone for suppliers in the business events industry. This area will offer opportunities for networking, prescheduled appointments, and business exchanges, tailored to the latest trends in the sector. The initiative follows growing demand from visitors and exhibitors, with over 7,000 attendees and 1,500 buyers at the 2024 event expressing interest in the business events sector.
Claudia Hall, Exhibition Director of IBTM World, added: “As a global platform for the business events industry, IBTM is excited to collaborate with ATM and ICCA. The Middle East is experiencing significant growth in this sector, and we are eager to support this expansion by providing a tailored experience for event planners and suppliers.”
The 32nd edition of Arabian Travel Market will take place in 2025, under the theme: “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.” The event will bring together leaders from across the travel industry to explore the latest innovations, trends, and business opportunities, making it a critical platform for networking and knowledge-sharing.
