Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 reinforces Dubai’s position as a resilient and well-prepared destination for global travel. The industry continues to navigate shifting market conditions.

Taking place from 14-17 September 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), ATM 2026 will bring together the international travel community at a pivotal time for the sector, underscoring Dubai’s ability to maintain business continuity, operational excellence, and global connectivity.

The revised dates for ATM 2026 reflect a measured and collaborative approach. This focus supports the global travel industry and gives exhibitors, buyers, visitors and partners more flexibility to participate. It also maximises chances for attendance and business engagement.

Danielle Curtis, Regional Portfolio Director – UAE, RX Global, said: “We appreciate that moving to September means change for everyone. However, ATM’s role as a vital platform for reconnecting the travel and tourism community, strengthening partnerships, and driving dialogue is key when collaboration is needed most.

“Dubai’s world-class infrastructure, operational resilience, and strong public-private sector coordination support ATM 2026. The event will unite the tourism industry and support long-term recovery and growth.”

Dubai has maintained operations across aviation, tourism, hospitality, and events, even amid government initiatives like AED2.5 billion in economic stimulus, tourism support, and public safety laws. This demonstrates the emirate’s preparedness and resilience.

Hoor Al Khaja, Senior Vice President, International Operations at Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “Dubai’s approach, guided by visionary leadership, is rooted in long-term planning, agility and strong collaboration. During recent regional developments, the city stayed open, operational and welcoming, earning global trust from travellers, businesses and partners. It continues to host major events across key sectors, including tourism. We look forward to engaging with the global travel community at ATM 2026.”

Air connectivity is steadily returning, and inbound tourism is set to increase. The UAE resumed full air traffic operations on 2 May. Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait also reopened their airspace. Emirates now flies to 138 destinations in 73 countries, operating over 1,300 flights per week. Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Qatar Airways are also restoring their schedules.

The UK has lifted its travel warning to the UAE, boosting regional travel confidence. Australia also downgraded its advice for several Middle Eastern destinations, including the UAE. This reflects easing regional tensions and reassures travellers, tourism businesses, and event organisers planning visits to the region.

Recent data highlights the GCC hospitality sector’s resilience. Research from STR, ATM’s research partner, shows hotel occupancy in key GCC markets recovering steadily. This trend is supported by domestic demand and continued tourism infrastructure operations.

Dubai maintained stable hospitality performance during this period, underlining its diversified economy, strong infrastructure and coordinated sector response. Findings suggest that destinations with strong connectivity, established tourism systems, and proactive government support, such as Dubai and the UAE, will recover quickly as the region stabilises.

Curtis continued: “Dubai has consistently shown resilience and leadership in uncertain times. Proactive governance, world-class infrastructure and a coordinated tourism ecosystem support its stability. The city remains operational, connected, and focused on the future.

“ATM 2026 will unite the international travel community when collaboration, confidence, and long-term planning are vital. By bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, tourism authorities, and innovators, ATM will foster meaningful partnerships and contribute to tourism growth and resilience.

ATM 2026’s theme is “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology.” The event will emphasise resilience, adaptability, and future preparedness in global travel.

ATM’s conference programme will tackle evolving tourism challenges and opportunities. Sessions will cover crisis management, destination resilience, traveller confidence, aviation continuity, digital transformation, and sustainable growth strategies.

On the Global Stage, Future Stage, and Experience Hub, leaders will discuss destination preparedness, operational agility, and resilience against disruption.

Research-led sessions, delivered in partnership with organisations including STR, Tourism Economics (an Oxford Economics company), GSIQ, and ICCA, will provide strategic insight into shifting traveller sentiment, global mobility trends, destination competitiveness, and the future of tourism demand.

Stephen Dutton of Euromonitor International, Global Insight Manager – Travel, will deliver a keynote titled “The State of Travel: Inflation, Polycrisis & the New Travel Reality.”

Speaking ahead of the event, he said: “Travel spending hit a record in 2025, outpacing GDP growth for many markets. This shows the enduring demand for cross-border experiences. Travel’s resilience is deliberate—consumers protect it, even under economic or political stress, sacrificing elsewhere if needed. Travel helps people escape daily challenges and experience the world positively.”