Building on the inaugural edition, IBTM @ ATM will return to Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in 2026, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 4–7 May, with a dedicated business events hub in Hall 3.
This expanded space emphasises the show's strategic focus on the global business events sector and highlights the Middle East's position as one of the fastest-growing regions for meetings and events worldwide.
According to Mordor Intelligence,
the region's meetings, incentives, conference and exhibitions (MICE) industry
continues to expand at pace as investment in large-scale venues,
infrastructure, and international partnerships accelerates.
The UAE’s MICE market is forecast
to grow to $9.26 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 8.96%.
The Saudi Arabian market is
projected to reach $5.33 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth
rate (CAGR) of 10.93%.
Together, these markets are
expected to drive the Gulf’s emergence as one of the world’s most dynamic
business event regions, supported by major tourism development programmes,
strong air connectivity and the growing appeal of the Middle East as a platform
for global trade and innovation.
The ATM Travel Trends Report 2025,
produced in partnership with Tourism Economics, also indicates a continued rise
in business travel across the Middle East, with the region's share of global
corporate travel spending forecast to increase from 2.5% in 2024 to more than 3%
by 2030.
This is being supported by the
steady recovery of international demand, improved air connectivity and the
continued development of business tourism infrastructure.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition
Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: "The expansion of IBTM @ ATM
reflects the strength and ambition of the Middle East's business events sector.
By establishing a platform for global buyers and regional and international
suppliers to exchange ideas and form meaningful partnerships, we are
contributing to the future of meetings and events, aligning with our 2040
vision. This year's edition will offer the knowledge and connections necessary
for our industry to adapt, innovate and grow."
According to the Dubai World Trade
Centre's 2024 Economic Impact Assessment and broader industry data, inbound
participation remains a key driver of growth, with strong travel flows between
the GCC and wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) markets supported by
short-haul connectivity and regional trade integration. Delegates from Europe,
South Asia, and the Asia Pacific continue to represent key source markets,
while North America and Africa are contributing an increasing number of high-value
exhibitors and corporate travellers.
Beyond attracting international
events, the Middle East is also becoming a significant outbound generator of
MICE business. According to research from 6Wresearch, organisations across the
UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are increasingly investing in overseas
conferences, exhibitions, and incentive programmes, reflecting an expanding
corporate footprint and international partnerships.
As part of Arabian Travel Market, the
IBTM @ ATM hub will bring together the global business events community with
the region's vibrant meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions sector.
ATM attracts over 55,000 industry professionals from 166 countries and will
showcase more than 2,800 exhibiting companies from every segment of the travel
and tourism industry.
IBTM @ ATM will connect
association planners, professional conference organisers, corporate buyers, and
incentive agencies with destinations, venues, destination management companies
(DMCs), and suppliers specialising in world-class business events. This
connection will be supported by a comprehensive hosted buyer programme,
targeted networking opportunities, and pre-scheduled business appointments.
In alignment with the theme of ATM
2026, ‘Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology,’ the
Business Events Stage at IBTM @ ATM will feature themed tracks and expert-led
sessions exploring the evolution of events, the transformation of incentive
travel, and the integration of technology into meetings and events.
Additionally, roundtable discussions will focus on inclusive event design and
sustainability. Destination showcases will further highlight opportunities
across global markets.
The International Congress and
Convention Association (ICCA) will once again return to support IBTM @ ATM as
the Official Business Events Partner, curating content for the Business Events
Stage and facilitating the participation of leading association buyers.
Claudia Hall, the Exhibition Director of IBTM World, added: “As the global business events landscape evolves, the Middle East stands out as a powerful hub for growth and innovation. Through IBTM @ ATM, we’re bringing together international and regional leaders to collaborate, exchange insights, and unlock new opportunities that will define the next decade of meetings and events.” -TradeArabia News Service