Visitors grow 4% during first two days of ATM

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2016 is experiencing healthy visitor growth, with a 4% increase in the number of visitors through the doors over days one and two, compared to 2015.

The trade event, which is taking place from 25th to 28th April at Dubai World Trade Centre, is well on track to welcome more 26,000 visitors in total over the four-day showcase, with pre-registered visitors representing an impressive 158 countries. 

Now in its 23rd edition, ATM boasts an additional hall this year, with 423 main stand holders representing 86 countries, 64 country pavilions and over 100 new exhibitors making their debut. 

The show was officially inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai who was joined by dignitaries including His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group and Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and Director General, Dubai World Trade Centre Authority.

New this year is the ATM Global Stage, a 200+ capacity seminar theatre designed to showcase the very best speakers covering high-level strategic topics. A stellar opening session entitled ‘The Future of the UAE As A Global Tourism Hub’, which took place on 25th April, set the scene for the days ahead by focusing on the need for the seven emirates to come together to promote the country as a top tourism destination while retaining their individuality. 

The overriding theme of ATM this year is mid-market travel.