With global business travel spending slated to reach USD 1.8 trillion by 2027 and the Middle East accounting for the highest percentage of in-person delegates at 94 pc, the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has announced a strategic collaboration with GBTA and ICCA to make presentations about business travel sectors and MICE at ATM 2024.

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has announced a strategic partnership with the Amsterdam-based International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the Virginia-based Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) for the upcoming edition of the event from May 6-9, 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. 

In a press statement, the organisers say that the global organisations have been appointed as ‘Knowledge Partners’ for the regional trade show, providing in-depth insights and opportunities for the thriving segments of business events and travel. 

The organisers add that the theme for the 31st edition of ATM is ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’. With exhibitors from the fields of aviation, accommodation, hospitality, attractions, technology and more, ATM 2024 will explore how innovators in the travel and tourism space are working to attract greater levels of funding to further increase the sector’s overall contribution to global GDP.

During ATM 2024, ICCA will deliver seminars covering a range of topics for the MICE industry, while GBTA will outline the prevailing trends in the business travel sector at the show. These seminars will give the industry valuable insights into recent research, innovations, and best practices. 

According to the ICCA statistical forecast, which charts the history and performance of the International Association Meetings Industry from 1963 to 2022, 10,602 business events were recorded worldwide last year, of which 9,009 or 85 pc, were in-person. This represented an astounding 349 pc increase from the previous year when only 2,007 in-person events occurred. Interestingly, the Middle East accounted for the highest percentage of in-person delegates, about 94 pc, in last year’s official figures. 

The statement adds that the business travel industry is also experiencing significant growth, as evidenced by statistics from the 2023 GBTA Business Travel Index Report, which found that the global business travel industry rebounded faster than expected in 2023. 

“All of the latest research suggests that the business events and business travel sectors are going from strength to strength. These sectors have always been important verticals at ATM, and the official partnership with ICCA and GBTA for the 2024 edition will take our offering to the next level. By collaborating with these respected industry leaders, ATM aims to deliver even more value and innovation to its attendees and exhibitors. With a focus on these two vital sectors, ATM is committed to offering a world-class event that provides a platform for networking, education, and business opportunities for professionals from around the world,” says Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director, Arabian Travel Market.

Pent-up demand following the pandemic and healthier economic conditions than forecasted were highlighted as significant contributing factors for this shift. The report also stated that global business travel spending rose by 47 pc to USD 1.03 trillion last year and is expected to grow to nearly USD 1.8 trillion globally by 2027. 

“ICCA proudly announces our collaboration with ATM as we celebrate the exciting inclusion of business events as a foundational segment in future editions. Envisaging a dynamic future, we see global business events seamlessly integrating with ATM’s rich tapestry of opportunities. With ICCA joining as a Knowledge Partner for the MICE segment, we are collectively positioned to redefine the landscape of collaboration, innovation and success in the interconnected realms of business. We look forward to working together in 2024 and beyond,” says Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA.

“Although one of the smaller global business travel markets, the MEA region has huge potential for growth and recovered more than any other region in 2022, reaching 95 pc of pre-pandemic business travel spending. Business travel spend in the region is forecast to exceed this figure in 2023 and reach USD 30.6 million and continue its growth trajectory going forward,” adds Catherine Logan, Regional Senior Vice President EMEA and APAC, GBTA.