ATM 2026 to Explore the Next Phase of Ultra-Luxury Travel
Advanced technology, cultural authenticity, and hyper-personalization are redefining what luxury travel means today. No longer focused solely on comfort and exclusivity, modern ultra-luxury travel now prioritizes meaningful experiences, privacy, sustainability, and a sense of transformation through access and connection.
These shifts will be examined in detail at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 4–7 May. Under the theme ‘Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology’, the event will highlight how innovation and individuality are shaping the future of the global ultra-luxury travel sector.
A key feature of this year’s edition will be the ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge, a dedicated space that connects buyers focused on high-net-worth travellers with leading travel brands.
According to Fortune Business Insights, the global luxury travel market—defined by personalised experiences and enhanced privacy—is projected to grow from US$2.7 trillion in 2025 to US$4.8 trillion by 2032.
Reflecting these developments, the ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge will focus on how technology, sustainability, and evolving traveller expectations are influencing the next phase of luxury travel. The space will host international brands, bespoke tour designers, and private jet operators, a segment estimated to reach US$943 million by 2029, according to Creative Zone.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “Ultra-luxury travel represents an important evolution of the regional market. The ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge has been designed to bring together leading brands and buyers who serve high-net-worth travellers, enabling meaningful networking and business connections.”
Upcoming developments such as Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea projects, Cheval Blanc in Dubai on Naïa Island, and the Bvlgari Resort & Mansions in Abu Dhabi reflect the sector’s continued expansion and diversification.
ATM 2026 will also highlight established names, including Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Jumeirah International, and One&Only, alongside destinations such as the Maldives and Mauritius, which continue to attract high-value travellers.
Insights from the ATM Travel Trends Report 2025, developed with Tourism Economics, show that luxury travel continues to outperform broader travel growth, with outbound luxury travel from the Middle East increasing at twice the global average. Data also shows that travellers from the region spend 50% more per trip than the worldwide average.
A report by Experium—Top 10 Luxury Travel Trends Transforming the Middle East in 2025—emphasises sustainability, wellness, and technology as central to the redefinition of luxury. Travellers are increasingly seeking purpose-driven experiences that prioritise connection, wellbeing, and environmental awareness.
Curtis added: “The idea of luxury is changing. Travellers are looking for experiences that reflect their values and contribute to their personal wellbeing. This shift is positioning the Middle East as an important player in shaping the future of global luxury travel.”
The 33rd edition of the Arabian Travel Market will continue to enhance Dubai’s position as a hub for collaboration and innovation in global tourism. With features such as the Ultra Luxury Lounge, IBTM@ATM, and the ATM Travel Tech Innovation Hub, ATM 2026 will showcase how the industry is adapting to new traveler expectations and progressing toward a more connected and sustainable future.
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