ATM 2026 Conference Programme Announced

ATM 2026 Conference Programme Announced

Arabian Travel Market has outlined the conference programme for ATM 2026, setting out a multi-stage agenda focused on the future of the global travel and tourism industry. The event will take place from May 4 to 7, 2026, at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Held under the theme “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology,” the conference will run across three stages: the Global Stage, the Future Stage, and the Experience Stage, formerly known as the Business Events Stage as part of IBTM @ ATM. The programme will feature sessions aimed at providing practical insights, data-led perspectives, and sector-wide discussion.

The Global Stage, positioned as ATM’s main strategic forum, will examine factors influencing international travel and tourism, including policy, investment, sustainability, accessibility, transport, accommodation, luxury travel, destination development, and emerging trends. Sessions will include panel discussions, interviews, and presentations, with a strong emphasis on research and data. Contributions are expected from organisations such as Tourism Economics, Euromonitor, and GSIQ. The final day on this stage will feature the Women in Travel Forum, delivered in partnership with Women in Travel CIC, focusing on inclusion, accessibility, equity, and leadership within the sector.

The Future Stage will be located within the Tech and Innovation Hub, reflecting the co-located ATM Travel Tech showcase. Over four days, sessions will explore developments in artificial intelligence, automation, digital transformation, fintech, immersive technologies, robotics, and emerging business models. The programme will consider how technology is reshaping travel planning, delivery, and customer experience, with sessions led by companies including Dragon Trail and Videc.

The newly rebranded Experience Stage will focus on business events, corporate travel, and experiential design. Supported by International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) as the Official Business Events Partner, the stage will address leadership, event technology, new formats, and strategies for sustainable and inclusive meetings and events, with particular attention to the Middle East’s role as a growing global events hub.

Across all stages, ATM 2026 will place greater emphasis on interactive formats. The programme will include roundtable discussions, Lunch ‘n Learn sessions, and Meet the Speaker opportunities. A partnership with Vox Technologies will introduce real-time session translation via headset devices, aimed at supporting wider participation and knowledge exchange among international delegates.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “At ATM, we want to raise the bar in how we guide the global travel and tourism industry. Our 2026 conference programme has been carefully curated to provide strategic direction through informed, industry-led insight, ensuring that decision-makers leave with the knowledge they need to act with confidence. “We want ATM to be a platform where thought leaders share expertise that supports global growth, improves standards and strengthens the future of travel and tourism worldwide.

By covering every major vertical within the industry, and by grounding our agenda in research, innovation and real-world scenarios, we are empowering the sector to make smarter, more sustainable decisions.” “With our expanded scope, redefined stages and renewed focus on inclusion, innovation and evidence-based insight, the ATM 2026 conference programme underscores the event’s position as the region’s leading knowledge platform for travel and tourism,” added Curtis.