His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, made a grand appearance at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, the premier global travel and tourism event taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The event, running from 6-9 May, has attracted 2,300 exhibitors from 165 countries, all gathered under the theme of ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’.
Accompanied by His Excellency Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, and His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, His Highness embarked on a tour of the exhibition area. The focus of the event on visionary entrepreneurs in the aviation, hospitality, and entertainment sectors was evident as they explored the various pavilions.
One of the highlights of His Highness’s visit was the DET pavilion, where 129 partners and stakeholders showcased the innovative tourism offerings that have contributed to Dubai’s tourism growth. The city welcomed a record-breaking 17.15 million international visitors in 2023, marking a significant 19.4% increase from the previous year. The first quarter of 2024 also saw 5.18 million visitors flocking to Dubai, a testament to the city’s appeal as a global tourist destination.
At the Emirates pavilion, His Highness was briefed on the airline’s latest innovations in the aviation industry and its sustainability initiatives. The visit to the Dubai Police pavilion provided insight into the eight services tailored to the tourism sector, highlighting the city’s commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
His Highness’s tour extended to the pavilions of Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, Etihad Airways, and the Emirate of Sharjah, showcasing the collaborative efforts of various entities in promoting tourism across the UAE.
This year’s edition of ATM has broken records as the largest event to date, with a 26% increase in exhibitor participation across all travel sectors and verticals. From MICE to leisure and luxury hospitality, the event has become a global platform for industry professionals to network, showcase innovations, and explore new opportunities for growth.
As His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum continues to champion entrepreneurship and innovation in the tourism sector, his visit to ATM 2024 serves as a testament to Dubai’s commitment to driving tourism growth and fostering a culture of innovation in the industry. With a focus on empowering entrepreneurs and transforming travel experiences, the event sets the stage for a dynamic and prosperous future for the travel and tourism sector in the region.