The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is gearing up to showcase its vibrant tourism landscape at the 33rd Arabian Travel Market (ATM), taking place from September 14-17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. As a pivotal event in the global travel industry, ATM serves as a platform for strategic networking while coinciding with Dubai’s renewed focus on growth and investment in its tourism sector.

The Importance of ATM for Dubai’s Tourism Landscape

The Arabian Travel Market has consistently been a cornerstone for DET’s engagement with the global travel trade. This event aims to foster international partnerships, explore emerging trends, and facilitate collaborations that propel Dubai’s visitor economy forward. DET utilizes ATM as a barometer, assessing the direction of the tourism sector and affirming Dubai’s status as a leading global hub for both business and leisure travel. The emirate aims to integrate its tourism strategy with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, fostering a public-private partnership model to stimulate further growth.

Over 115 co-exhibitors spanning various industries will join DET at the Dubai stand. This collective represents a diverse mix of hotels, destination management companies, and tour operators, showcasing Dubai’s inclusive tourism strategy. Government entities such as the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Municipality will also play a role, highlighting the coordinated effort to enhance the local tourism ecosystem. Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, emphasizes the significance of the ATM, stating it epitomizes the city’s visionary leadership and collaborative spirit, crucial for tapping into new growth avenues.

Engaging Trade Professionals Through the Hosted Buyers Programme

A standout feature of DET’s participation this year is its Hosted Buyers Programme. Designed to attract over 300 travel professionals and media representatives from 40 countries, this initiative aims to immerse these stakeholders in Dubai’s hospitality. The programme focuses on marrying strategic business objectives with enriching experiences, encouraging buyers to develop lasting relationships that extend beyond the event.

During the event, DET will highlight several upcoming developments poised to shape Dubai’s tourism landscape. Notably, plans will be discussed concerning a new AED128 billion passenger terminal slated for Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) and the ambitious Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The information shared will empower international partners to better promote Dubai to both new and returning visitors, further amplifying the city’s appeal.

Cultural and Culinary Showcase at the Dubai Stand

Beyond business discussions, the Dubai stand will offer visitors a glimpse into the emirate’s rich cultural and culinary heritage. Supported by Dubai Culture, works from Emirati artist Mariam Abbas will be featured, showcasing the dynamic contemporary art scene. Additionally, attendees can indulge in local flavors at a dedicated cafe, featuring brands like Karam Coffee and Camelicious, providing a taste of Dubai’s evolving culinary narrative. The presence of the guidebook “Salt & Sand,” which delves into Emirati cuisine, reinforces Dubai’s growing stature as a culinary hotspot for food enthusiasts.

Year-Round Engagement and Future Prospects for Dubai

Leading up to ATM 2026, DET has been committed to year-round engagement with stakeholders, successfully uniting over 1,700 leaders in the tourism ecosystem during a recent City Briefing. This gathering, the largest of its kind, facilitated discussions on shared priorities and the city’s evolving narrative as a desired destination. Initiatives like “A Dubai Invite” encouraged residents to invite friends and family to explore the city, while DET roadshows targeted international markets to directly communicate Dubai’s offerings.

DET’s participation in ATM reflects its broader ambition under the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to solidify Dubai’s position as a premier global city for tourism and business. By uniting its partners and welcoming the international travel community, DET advances a model of growth defined by collaboration, sustainability, and innovation—traits that are now synonymous with Dubai’s tourism narrative. Attendees can visit the Dubai stand at ME1120/ME1150 in Sheikh Saeed Hall 1 during ATM 2026 to learn more about this dynamic travel destination.