A large number of professionals and enthusiasts throng the venue on the first day of the ATM in Dubai.

Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor

Travel and tourism experts from across the industry convened at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 Future Stage this morning to discuss the complexities of navigating the transformation of hospitality.

The opening session titled “Trends Shaping the Future of Hospitality in the Middle East” brought together senior representatives from IHG Hotels and Resorts, Marriot International, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Banyan Tree Dubai, Mastercard and Silkhaus. The diverse panel provided a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s hospitality industry.

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, Middle East, Africa and South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, initiated the hospitality trends session with an insightful discussion on the dynamic transformation within the hospitality landscape.

Addressing a packed venue of trade professionals, Mattar highlighted the importance of how destinations and hotels identify their respective source markets. “The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way generations choose travel, with outdoor adventure now taking the No. 1 spot away from “beach, sun and sand”. For the industry to stay afloat in difficult times, the private sector needs to mirror the vision of their respective tourism authorities and work together to ensure appealing spending packages for those markets.”

He also outlined how generational shifts and emerging travel behaviours are giving rise to global travel trends such as slow travel and similarly, with the hospitality industry responsible for 10% of global emissions, consumers are now willing to spend up to 31 percent more on hospitality companies that execute sustainable practices.

Furthermore, he highlighted how innovation in the hospitality industry is triggering the pace of digitalisation. “The future use of technology and AI will be critical for us to get a clear idea of how to enhance consumer preferences. Specifically, travel anxiety is starting to reduce with technology, and the focus should now be firmly on the traveller’s experiences,” he added.

Also speaking about the transforming needs of the market, Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East - Marriott International, echoed Mattar’s sentiments as he highlighted slow holidays, sustainability, the rise of AI and dupe destinations - similar to traditional holiday destinations but closer in geography - as some of the key travel trends for the next three years, according to the “Marriott Bonvoy Travel Trends report 2024 and beyond’.

“The insights shared today go beyond theories to offer direct reflections of the transformations we aim to foster through ATM. As we continue to drive innovation and entrepreneurial spirit within the travel industry, sessions like these equip our attendees with the knowledge and tools necessary to lead the hospitality industry forward,” said Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market.

The 31st edition of ATM, under the theme “Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship”, also hosted the fascinating Global Stage Welcome: The Gateway to Global Insights session, outlining Dubai’s key tourism objectives for the coming years.

Elsewhere today, the Market Insights Summit also took centre stage, exploring the potential of developing markets such as China, India and Latin America as they emerge as key players in global tourism.

flydubai

flydubai recorded sustained growth in passenger numbers since the beginning of the year, carrying almost five million passengers between 1st January and 28th April 2024; a 13% increase compared to the same period last year.

Since the start of 2024, flydubai has further expanded its network with the start of operations to Al Jouf, Langkawi, Mombasa, Penang and The Red Sea.

The carrier has also announced the further expansion of its network in Europe with the launch of flights to Basel, Riga, Tallinn and Vilnius.

With the start of its seasonal summer operations between June and October, the carrier’s network spans more than 125 destinations in 58 countries.

Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said, “flydubai continues to consistently grow its network and I am pleased to see our operations grow further in South-East Asia with the addition of Malaysia as well as the ongoing expansion in the African and European markets in particular. The added capacity has seen more passengers travel with us since the beginning of this year even though this growth has been dampened by the ongoing delays in aircraft deliveries.

We are still on track for one of the busiest summers on record with the start of the seasonal summer schedule from June. Our focus for the coming few months is the ambitious retrofit project across the fleet which will ensure an elevated and more consistent onboard experience for our customers.”

Two new aircraft joined the flydubai fleet since the start of 2024, growing its fleet to 86 Boeing 737 aircraft serving its expanding network with six more aircraft expected to be delivered by the end of the year amid ongoing challenges in supply chain and delays in its aircraft delivery schedule.

flydubai’s fleet consists of 29 Next-Generation Boeing 737-800, 54 Boeing 737 MAX 8 and 03 Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft. The carrier has launched a retrofit project that will see a complete upgrade of the cabin interior for the majority of its Next-Generation Boeing fleet.

The multi-million dollar retrofit project was launched in January 2024 and eight aircraft have had a full cabin refresh with the installation of the carrier’s flagship lie-flat Business Class seats and the new economy seats from RECARO that mirror the cabin product on its newer aircraft in the fleet.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, is showcasing its successful growth story, ambitious plans, and investment in guest experience at the Arabian Travel Market, which opens today.

The UAE’s national airline expects to welcome thousands of visitors to its stand including distinguished guests, travel trade customers, members of the media and tourism partners.

Javier Alija, Vice President Sales and Distribution, Etihad Airways, said: “We’re looking forward to a great week ahead at the Arabian Travel Market, where we have the opportunity to showcase the growth story at Etihad Airways, in partnership with Zayed International Airport, our new home in Abu Dhabi. We look forward to welcoming our trade and tourism partners and industry peers to our stand and look forward to a fruitful week for the important travel trade industry.”

The stand is presented in partnership with Zayed International Airport, showcasing the stunning new home of Etihad Airways. The new airport, which opened in November 2023, offers streamlined check-in including dedicated spaces for families, First and Business class, as well as biometric self-check in and security facilities. In Departures, guests will find world-class duty-free shopping and dining, as well as Etihad’s stunning First and Business class lounges for guests travelling in premium cabins and eligible Etihad Guest members.

Ajman

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) is gearing up for a momentous presence at the Arabian Travel Market 2024 (ATM), scheduled from May 6 to May 9, 2024. This premier event serves as a significant platform for ADTD to unveil the rich Ajman’s cultural heritage, vibrant Events Calendar, Things to Do diverse tourism offerings, and the remarkable growth trajectory of its tourism sector. In line with its vision for progress, ADTD actively seeks strategic partners during ATM 2024 to foster collaborations and enhance Ajman’s position as a leading destination in global tourism.

Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, emphasized the significance of building new partnerships during ATM 2024. He stated, “ATM 2024 marks a pivotal moment for Ajman as we unveil our commitment to Ajman Vision 2030. We are dedicated to showcasing Ajman’s vibrant culture, rich heritage, and unparalleled hospitality, aligning with our strategic goals for sustainable tourism development.”

Alhashmi further emphasized, “Our participation underscores our strong business perspective and commitment to providing exceptional tourism offerings that align with Ajman’s vision for 2030. We look forward to presenting the diverse array of events, activities, and experiences that embody Ajman’s unique charm and leave a lasting impression on our visitors. Through building new partnerships, we aim to enhance our tourism sector and contribute significantly to the economic growth and cultural enrichment of Ajman.”

ADTD is proud to collaborate with esteemed partners and co-exhibitors at ATM 2024, showcasing a collective commitment to offering world-class hospitality and experiences. Notable participants include Ajman Saray - A Luxury Collection Resort, The Oberoi Beach Resort Al Zorah, Radisson Blu Hotel, Fairmont Ajman, and a host of other prestigious entities.

Goa

As the global travel and tourism industry gears up for the prestigious Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai 2024, there’s one destination that’s poised to make a significant impact – Goa, India. Renowned for its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant communities, Goa is set to showcase its commitment to sustainable tourism at ATM Dubai 2024 with this year’s theme: Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship.

Attendees of ATM Dubai at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), from May 6th to May 9th, 2024, will have the opportunity to explore the Goa Pavilion, Stand No: AS7259, where they’ll experience an immersive presentation spotlighting the region’s innovative endeavors in sustainable tourism. Central to our exhibit is the principle of Regenerative Tourism, surpassing traditional conservation efforts to actively rejuvenate both natural and cultural assets while fostering the prosperity of local communities.