The 2025 edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), set to take place from April 28 to May 1 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), promises to be a landmark event for the aviation industry. Under the theme “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity,” ATM will bring together industry leaders to explore the key trends transforming air travel.A major focus of the event will be sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), which are expected to play a pivotal role in the sector’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), SAF production is projected to more than double by 2025, reaching 2.1 million tonnes. Airlines such as Emirates and Etihad have already implemented SAF on flights to destinations like Singapore, Amsterdam, London, and Japan, making it a critical element in the drive toward greener aviation.Advancements in technology will also take centre stage, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in the aviation sector. From streamlining air traffic control to predictive maintenance and optimizing flight routes, AI is reshaping how airports and airlines operate. London Heathrow’s pilot AI-assisted air traffic control system and Gatwick Airport’s AI-driven turnaround management technology showcase the transformative power of AI in boosting operational efficiency and enhancing the customer experience.Business travel, a key pillar of the aviation sector, will be another focal point of ATM 2025. The introduction of the IBTM@ATM feature will spotlight the resurgence of corporate travel. Research indicates that 40% of businesses plan to increase their travel budgets in 2025, a positive signal for the industry. This surge in business travel will contribute to the projected growth of the global aviation sector, with revenues expected to surpass $1 trillion and passenger numbers set to exceed 5 billion for the first time in 2025.One of the most exciting trends at ATM 2025 will be the rise of the “gate escape,” driven by Gen Z and millennial travelers who view airports as destinations in their own right. Research shows that 43% of these younger travelers prioritize airport amenities such as sleep pods, spas, and fine dining when planning their trips. Middle Eastern airports are leading the way in this shift, transforming traditional travel hubs into luxury destinations that offer a richer, more indulgent passenger experience.
ATM 2025 will feature leading aviation companies, including Emirates, flydubai, flynas, and Air Charter Service. The event’s Global Stage sessions will explore how the aviation, cruise, and rail sectors can collaborate to enhance connectivity and create integrated travel networks. These discussions will highlight the role of sustainability and technological innovation in driving forward the future of global tourism.The broader implications of these trends are far-reaching. The growth of SAF production, coupled with AI’s role in operational optimization, sets a powerful precedent for other industries to embrace sustainable and efficient practices. Meanwhile, the growing demand for luxury and entertainment at airports reflects changing consumer expectations and a broader shift in the passenger experience.
As Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME at ATM, pointed out, “The intersection of technology and sustainability will define the future of aviation, offering long-term benefits for both the industry and travelers
” With its strategic focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, ATM 2025 will serve as a critical platform for shaping the next era of global connectivity and tourism.Key Takeaways:
Sustainable aviation fuels are projected to reach 2.1 million tonnes in 2025, more than double the levels in 2024
AI technologies are revolutionizing aviation operations, from air traffic control to baggage management.
Business travel is on the rise, with industry revenues expected to surpass $1 trillion in 2025.
Younger travelers are driving demand for luxury and entertainment at airports, reshaping the passenger experience.
Arabian Travel Market 2025 will not only highlight these emerging trends but will also serve as a catalyst for collaboration across the global tourism and aviation sectors, paving the way for a more connected, sustainable future.
