Dubai is strengthening its position as a global hub for business events with the introduction of IBTM@ATM at the 32nd edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025.
Taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from April 28 to May 1, 2025, this newly launched zone will cater to the booming Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, connecting global buyers and suppliers in one of the world’s fastest-growing business tourism markets.
A Strategic Expansion for Business Events in Dubai
IBTM@ATM has been created to meet the increasing demand for business event collaborations, with over 7,000 attendees, 1,500 buyers, and 400 exhibitors at last year’s ATM expressing strong interest in this sector. The new zone will feature pre-arranged business exchange sessions, networking opportunities, and the Business Events Stage, where industry experts will discuss key trends shaping the future of business travel, technology, and economic impact.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, emphasized the significance of the event, stating that the theme of enhanced connectivity aligns perfectly with the evolving business events sector, which thrives on partnerships, knowledge exchange, and innovation.
Key Industry Players and Conference Highlights
IBTM@ATM will connect a diverse range of corporate event planners, incentive buyers, destination management companies (DMCs), and event technology providers with hotels, convention bureaus, conference venues, airlines, and transport providers.
The Business Events Stage will showcase high-impact discussions, including:
- How Global Events and Festivals Drive Socioeconomic Growth (in partnership with the International Congress and Convention Association – ICCA)
- The State of the Nation: Navigating the Future of Business Travel in the Middle East (in partnership with the Global Business Travel Association – GBTA)
- Demystifying Technology in Events – The Human Connection vs AI (in partnership with Multilem)
With Dubai’s MICE sector growing 25% in 2023, the city is already a leading destination for corporate events, trade shows, and conferences, supporting millions of jobs and generating $1.6 trillion in global GDP annually.
A Multi-Billion Dollar Industry Poised for Growth
According to Allied Market Research, the global business events industry is expected to surpass $2.5 trillion by 2035, with an annual growth rate of 6.8% from 2024-2035. Dubai’s continuous investment in infrastructure, world-class venues, and innovative event technology positions it as a key player in this expanding market.
Claudia Hall, Exhibition Director of IBTM World, highlighted Dubai’s strong position in the business events industry, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda and solidifying its role as a strategic partner for global trade and innovation.
As part of its Hosted Buyer Programme, IBTM@ATM will welcome an exclusive group of senior-level events industry buyers, including 50 hosted and 10 association buyers, ensuring high-value meetings and strategic business connections.
The Future of Business Events at ATM 2025
ATM 2025 will feature a comprehensive conference program, with global and regional experts delivering insights into the future of MICE, corporate travel, and tourism growth. With Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Emirates, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Al Rais Travel as key strategic partners, ATM 2025 is set to be a landmark event in shaping the future of business tourism in the region.
As Dubai expands its footprint in the business events industry, IBTM@ATM at ATM 2025 is poised to become a game-changing platform for the global MICE sector, unlocking new opportunities and fostering international collaborations.
