Preparedness and collaboration underpin resilience of GCC tourism and hold key to sector’s future
Preparedness and multilateral
collaboration were at the top of the agenda on the opening day of Arabian Travel
Market (ATM) 2026, as policymakers from the Middle East, Central Asia, Europe and
the United Nations (UN) examined the resilience and long-term trajectory of the
GCC’s tourism industry. The 33rd edition of ATM is being hosted at Dubai World
Trade Centre until Thursday 17 September.
Leadership Voices
- H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri (UAE Minister of Economy & Tourism):
- Emphasized “tourism foundations” built over 50 years as the basis for resilience.
- UAE successfully navigated recent geopolitical challenges by relying on those strong foundations.
- H.E. Shaikha Al Nuwais (UN Tourism Secretary-General):
- Stressed the importance of preparedness and trust-building before crises occur.
- “Ready because we learned. Ready because we already knew who to call.”
Ministerial Debate
- Fatima Jaafar Al Sairafi (Bahrain): GCC tourism contributes 11%+ of GDP, above the global average of 10%.
- Apostolos Tzitzikostas (European Commission): EU reaffirmed support for UAE and Gulf partners, noting recovery momentum.
- Abdulaziz Akkulov (Uzbekistan): Highlighted parallels with GCC collaboration, citing partnerships with Azerbaijan and UN Tourism.
Key Themes
- Preparedness + Multilateral Collaboration = resilience in tourism.
- GCC’s united response to global challenges strengthens confidence in its long-term trajectory.
- Tourism revenues are vital to GCC economies, with strong potential for future growth.
ATM 2026 Context
- Theme: Travel 2040 – Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology.
- Opening day featured seven sessions, including:
- The Present and Future of Live Experiences
- Elevating Middle East Tourism: Tech-Powered Luxury Experiences
- Focus areas: AI, digital transformation, smart mobility, evolving traveler expectations.
👉 In essence: ATM 2026 opened with a strong message—resilience comes from preparedness and collaboration, and the GCC is positioning itself as a model for tourism recovery and long-term growth.
