ATM 2025 will cover a variety of trending topics, ranging from sustainable aviation and new technology
Arabian Travel Market 2025, taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from April 28 to May 1, 2025, is set to welcome global aviation industry to discuss the latest trends impacting the sector, in line with this year’s theme, ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’.
According to a press statement, the four-day event will cover a variety of trending topics, ranging from sustainable aviation and new technology to the return of corporate travel and the rise of airport entertainment.
Danielle Curtis
“At ATM, we recognise the critical importance of addressing the latest trends and innovations shaping the aviation industry. New technology and the increased use of sustainable fuels will be a game-changer for the sector, with far-reaching benefits for years to come,” says Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market.
The statement adds that, one of the subjects expected to garner attention during the 32nd edition of the event is the anticipated increase of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which, according to the latest findings from the International Aviation Transport Association (IATA), has seen SAF production double in 2024 to 1 million tonnes, with production expected to top 2.1 million tonnes in 2025.
Regionally, Emirates and Etihad have significantly reduced CO2 emissions using SAF on routes including Singapore Changi Airport, Amsterdam, London Heathrow, Paris, Lyon, Oslo, and Japan.
New technology, including artificial intelligence, which supports aviation industry professionals in various ways, from streamlining the customer journey to tracking weather, optimising routes, undertaking predictive maintenance, analysing scenarios to determine potential disruptions and providing data-driven decisions that minimise risk, will also be discussed extensively.
Airports which are harnessing the true potential of AI include London Heathrow Airport, which utilises a pilot AI-assisted air traffic control system, other examples include Japan Airlines AI-powered baggage management system, and Gatwick Airport’s AI-powered smart-stand technology, developed to enhance how aircraft turnarounds are managed.
In 2025, industry revenues will surpass USD 1 trillion for the first time, according to IATA. In addition, traveller numbers are expected to hit 5.2 billion, up 6.7 pc compared to 2024, exceeding the five-billion mark for the first time, with the number of flights expected to reach 40 million, adds the statement.
As part of ATM’s new feature, IBTM@ATM, participants are expected to deliberate on business travel, which is expected to grow significantly in 2025, with 40 pc of businesses planning to increase travel from July to June, and 42 pc of corporates are forecast to spend more than in 2024, according to a report by Flight Centre Corporate.
The statement adds that another trend, gate escape, wherein travellers make the airport experience part of their vacation, which has already become prominent in several airports in the Middle East, is expected to grab the attention of participants this year. 43 pc of Gen Z and millennials consider destinations based on their airport, opting for indulgent experiences, including sleep pods (37 pc Gen Z, 35 pc millennials) and spas (31 pc Gen Z, 29 pc millennials) to Michelin star restaurants (22 pc Gen Z, 24 pc millennials), says a report by Booking.com.
This year several new and returning exhibitors including Emirates, flydubai, flynas, flyadeal, Air Charter Service, and Mayfair Jests are expected to participate in the event. In 2024, 4.5 pc of exhibitors were from the aviation sector, occupying 10 pc of the show’s space, with significant growth expected in 2025, adds the statement.
During the event, an expert panel will take a deep dive into how advancements in aviation, cruise, and rail enhance connectivity regionally and internationally by discussing sustainable developments, transformative projects, and the future of integrated networks.
“Through dedicated sessions, we are bringing together thought leaders, innovators, and industry stakeholders to explore how cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices can redefine air travel. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, ATM continues to serve as a vital platform for advancing the future of aviation and global connectivity,” adds Curtis.