ATM 2025: UAE minister Sheikh Nahyan visits Arabian Travel Market in Dubai
Over 2,800 exhibitors from 166 countries join global tourism showcase
DUBAI: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, paid a visit to the 32nd edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre today.
His presence underscored the UAE’s commitment to reinforcing its global standing as a beacon of cultural diversity, sustainable tourism, and innovation. ATM 2025 is poised to welcome more than 55,000 visitors and features participation from over 2,800 exhibitors representing 166 countries.
The four-day event, held under the theme “Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship,” is a key platform for tourism stakeholders to explore emerging opportunities and collaborative solutions across borders and sectors. Sheikh Nahyan’s visit highlighted the UAE’s continued dedication to fostering international dialogue and driving forward-thinking initiatives in travel and hospitality.
Sheikh Nahyan at ATM 2025
Sheikh Nahyan began his tour at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi pavilion. There, he received an in-depth briefing on the emirate’s integrated cultural, heritage, and tourism strategies aimed at aligning with the UAE’s broader vision for global tolerance and sustainable development. The initiatives showcased included plans to further position Abu Dhabi as a global centre for cultural diplomacy and a preferred destination for immersive travel experiences.
At the Emirates Airline pavilion, Sheikh Nahyan was welcomed by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group. The airline’s latest innovations in customer experience and international expansion plans were presented, underscoring Emirates' role in connecting the UAE to global markets and supporting its tourism economy.
Sheikh Nahyan then proceeded to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism pavilion, where he explored key features of the city’s tourism offerings. Highlights included strategies under the “Dubai Economic Agenda D33,” a framework to elevate Dubai’s status as a top-tier destination for both leisure and business tourism. The pavilion also focused on digital transformation and sustainable urban experiences.
He also visited the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority pavilion, where officials shared insights into Sharjah’s approach to integrating cultural preservation with modern tourism infrastructure. The emirate’s emphasis on family-friendly attractions, eco-tourism, and cultural festivals reflects its goal of becoming a model city for heritage-led tourism growth in the region.
Regional collaboration
The tour continued with a visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia pavilion, where Sheikh Nahyan reviewed the latest initiatives under the “Saudi Spirit” programme. The display emphasised the Kingdom’s efforts to transform its tourism sector through strategic investment, infrastructure development, and heritage preservation, all aimed at becoming a top global destination for sustainable and adventure tourism.
In addition, Sheikh Nahyan toured several regional and international hotel group pavilions. These featured the latest trends in hospitality, from AI-driven guest services to eco-conscious design. Discussions at these stops centred around how hotels are redefining travel experiences to meet the expectations of sustainability-minded travellers.
Innovation & sustainability
Speaking at the event, Sheikh Nahyan said, “The UAE’s continued success in the tourism sector is a reflection of the ambitious vision and wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Their guidance has laid solid foundations for development, making the UAE a preferred global destination for tourism.”
He added, “I am pleased to be here at the heart of this important international event, which clearly demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation and developing the tourism sector as a pillar of the national economy and a vital avenue for promoting tolerance, openness, and cross-cultural dialogue.”
Praising the diversity of exhibits, Sheikh Nahyan noted, “I was truly impressed by the innovative initiatives presented by participants from around the world. They reflect the maturity of the sector and the dedication to building a shared future rooted in sustainability and innovation. I am confident this exhibition will play a vital role in shaping the future of regional and global tourism.”
Before concluding his tour, Sheikh Nahyan expressed his appreciation to the Dubai World Trade Centre for organising an event of such calibre. He highlighted the centre’s consistent role in elevating the UAE’s image through internationally recognised events that attract leaders, investors, and innovators from across the globe.
ATM 2025
ATM 2025 includes three key content arenas – the Global Stage, the Future Stage, and the Business Events Stage – each offering curated discussions and presentations on current trends, digital disruption, and long-term strategies in the travel sector. Topics range from artificial intelligence and sustainable tourism to destination branding and experiential travel. It will conclude today.