DUBAI: Marek Traczyk (TTG Polska) believes that this year’s edition of Arabian Travel Market in Dubai reaffirmed its status as one of the most important events in the global tourism industry. He points out the noticeable absence of Poland amid the rapidly growing Middle Eastern market.
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Record Attendance and Global Reach
The 32nd edition of Arabian Travel Market can undoubtedly be described as another success for the organizers. This year, the event welcomed participants from 166 countries. In total, over 2,800 exhibitors from all over the world attended – with the possible exception of the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
A Royal Opening Welcoming the World
The prestige of the fair was underscored by the official opening, led by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum – Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, and President of Dubai Airports. The presence of such high-profile figures reflects the strong global partnerships behind this event. The organizer, Reed Exhibitions, is also behind World Travel Market in London and Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.
Poland Absent from the Global Tourism Map
The event’s reputation is further evidenced by the invitation of over 500 hosted buyers from nearly every continent. These fairs provide a valuable opportunity for B2B meetings, making them an unparalleled networking platform. This year’s edition of ATM 2025 was held under the theme: “Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship.”
During seminars and conferences, great emphasis was placed on innovation and international cooperation. Numerous bilateral meetings took place, attended by dozens of tourism ministers, airline executives, representatives of national tourism boards, as well as industry influencers and lobbyists.
Innovation and Partnerships in Focus
Participants actively sought to establish the best possible business connections with both local and Middle Eastern markets. Middle Eastern countries are now major players in the global tourism scene – both as tourist-sending and tourist-receiving nations. The fair welcomed more than 50,000 visitors. While final attendance figures will be confirmed tomorrow, the crowds were evident – the corridors between exhibition halls were packed.
Not Just an Exhibition – A Place for Real Negotiations
This is an important observation when compared to some trade shows held in Poland, where visitor numbers are sometimes quoted as 20,000–30,000, but the halls remain visibly empty. This is a nod to events organized primarily for exhibitors and organizers, often neglecting actual buyers and traders.
Arabian Travel Market presents a huge lobbying opportunity. As media representatives, we were hosted at numerous press conferences and meetings with ministers and CEOs. We witnessed the signing of agreements that will lead to the launch of new air routes.
Poznań and Greater Poland – A Model of Effective Presence
It is impossible to fully grasp modern tourism without being present at such trade shows. One cannot hope to be a player in the international tourism arena without on-site representation. Unfortunately, Poland lacked central government presence. Although some regional authorities attended, Poland was practically absent from any promotional materials, publications, or side events.
That’s a real pity. Trade fairs like ATM are where you can reach tens of thousands of visitors with a message that truly matters. A good example of success is the stand from Poznań and the Greater Poland region, which – thanks to new air connections launched last autumn – is already seeing great results. Flights are fully booked, and the tourist season is essentially sold out.
Marek Traczyk: Presence at Such Fairs is Essential
All of this demonstrates the importance of being active and present at such events. These are the places where the future of global tourism is being shaped – including that of Poland.
Marek Traczyk, TTG Polska, Dubai, Arabian Travel Market
Polish News, Economy, PKN, 21.05.2025
