Arabian Travel Market 2022 - Official Show Daily - Day 1

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Open doors

As the 29th edition of Arabian Travel Market gets underway today, travel and tourism professionals from around the world come together to discuss the bright future of the industry

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LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com

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Welcome to Radisson Hotel Group, Where Every Moment Matters Radisson Hotel Group is one of the world’s largest hotel groups with more than 1,700 hotels in operation and under development in 120 countries.

With an overarching brand promise “Every Moment Matters”, a signature Yes I Can! service ethos, the Group has expertise across all key segments and business models.

With nine vibrant brands spanning from economy to premium lifestyle, we have a brand for every moment.

Visit Radisson Hotel Group at ATM stand HC0632

Radisson Blu Dubai Canal View

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Welcome

Welcome to Arabian Travel Market 2022

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market

Welcome, one and all, to Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022.

We are delighted that so many of you have been able to join us this year in the UAE, and we cannot wait to show you what we have in store.

The struggles witnessed in the tourism industry in recent years have been well documented, with many businesses facing unprecedented challenges.

However, there appears to be a shift on the horizon as borders open and guests are welcomed back to tourism businesses around the world.

With this in mind, ATM 2022 will play a pivotal role in underscoring the trends and opportunities expected to create traction for the recovery and growth in the tourism industry and how the sector can best capitalise on them.

Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the emirate’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), ATM 2022 forms an essential part of Arabian Travel Week. This year’s show features 1,500 exhibitors and representatives from 112 destinations. With more than 20,000 visitors expected to attend, this edition is shaping up to be one of our biggest and most exciting yet.

While there isn’t enough space to run through every one of this year’s show highlights, I would like to mention a few of the sessions and events I’m most excited about.

First of all, the revamped and rebranded ATM Travel Tech event (previously called Travel Forward) is an unmissable feature, with several seminars, debates and presentations focused on ATM 2022’s theme – The future of international travel and tourism. We’re delighted to welcome a range of experts to deliver their views on the outlook for the tourism industry from a technology perspective and outline how we can take advantage.

I’m particularly looking forward to our inaugural ATM Draper-Aladdin Start-up Competition, which will see 15 travel, tourism and hospitality start-ups pitch for up to $500,000 of funding – not to mention the opportunity to

appear on the hit TV show, Meet the Drapers. At ATM, we believe we can act as an incubator for future tech and innovations, in line with the region’s growing reputation as a start-up phenomenon and as a leader in new technology.

After joining us remotely last year, both the Arival Dubai @ ATM forum and the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) will participate live in Dubai for the first time at ATM 2022. The former will cover current and future trends for tour operators and attractions, while GBTA will deliver the latest content, research and education from the business travel sector.

With dedicated sessions for the key markets of India and Saudi Arabia, the return of ILTM Arabia, live interviews with aviation and hospitality experts, debates on the future of sports, city and responsible tourism, digital influencer networking and the best stand awards, we are confident ATM 2022 will be one of the best editions in our 29-year history.

All that’s left to say is that we hope your time with us is productive, educational and – most importantly – fun.

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Contents 06 | Exhibitor news 14 | In the spotlight

Highlights from ATM 2022

20 | Seminar schedule 28 | The future in focus

Explore the industry’s landscape

30 | Elevating travel

Arival comes to ATM Dubai

32 | A competitive edge

Discover ATM Travel Tech

34 | Destination profiles 38 | Vox pops 28

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Enjoy the show!

- Danielle Curtis Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market

Arabian Travel Market 2021

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Thu 12

The Arabian Travel Market show dailies are published on behalf of: Built by

ln the business of building businesses

Gateway House 28 The Quadrant, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1DN, United Kingdom  +44 (0) 20 8271 2158,  arabian.helpline@reedexpo.co.uk  www.arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com The Arabian Travel Market logo, ATM and Hosted Buyer are trade marks of Reed Exhibitions Limited. RELX Group, RE symbol, Reed Exhibitions and Reed Travel Exhibitions are trade marks of RELX Group plc.

Published by: npimedia

PO Box 500573, Office 704, Executive Heights, Barsha Heights, Dubai, UAE +971 4 4243640  enquiries@npimedia.com  npimedia.com © Copyright The Arabian Travel Market show dailies are published by npimedia under licence from Reed Exhibitions Limited. The copyright in the design and content of the Arabian Travel Market show dailies is owned by npimedia, Reed Exhibitions Limited and its licensors. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, by any means – electronic, photocopying or otherwise - without the prior written permission of Reed Exhibitions Limited.

VISIT NPI AT THE SHOW DAILIES OFFICE: ROOM 3.1, DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE All images from npimedia archive, Shutterstock Images or supplied

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The future of travel takes the spotlight As Arabian Travel Market opens its doors today, it reunites 1,500 exhibitors and representatives from 112 destinations with an anticipated 20,000 attendees. The show floor this year is over 85 percent larger than last year, with Dubai World Trade Centre hosting one of the industry’s largest gatherings since the pandemic.

This year’s show will spotlight the future of international travel and tourism.

Highlighting the theme, the programme features an array of sessions and events, enabling industry professionals to discuss current trends and explore long-term opportunities within the fields of travel, transportation, tourism, hospitality, events, attractions and more.

The 29th edition of ATM will form an essential part of the UAE’s annual Arabian Travel Week, which sees ITIC, ARIVAL Dubai and ILTM Arabia also taking place.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “ATM 2022 will see a diverse range of industry leaders take to the stage, offering expert insights on trends, challenges and opportunities from across our sector.”

Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism), said: “Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism is pleased to be part of this significant fixture in the

Dubai

global tourism calendar and is looking forward to discussing and exploring opportunities for sustainable growth, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make Dubai the most visited destination

Farnek to launch ‘Trendz’ hotel management company at ATM Farnek, the leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management company, is set to launch ‘Trendz’, a new standalone hotel management entity. Offering a unique 360-degree service for hotel owners and operating companies, Trendz accents technology and sustainability, two of the most important trends in hospitality today.

Walter Knight, Director of Hospitality at Farnek, said: “Farnek, which has over 8,000 employees, has traditionally provided manpower and outsourcing services, such as cleaning, security and property maintenance. However, Trendz takes that proposition one stage further, managing front office requirements, reservations, concierge, housekeeping and room service. We can also manage sales operations, marketing and PR.

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Walter Knight

and the best city in the world to live and work in. Since reopening to the global market in July 2020, Dubai has never looked back. We have been able to build on this momentum year on year, leading to a hugely successful Expo 2020 Dubai. And ATM comes at a time when the rest of the world

wants to be a part of this remarkable journey with Dubai. As the host city, we welcome our industry partners and travel and tourism professionals to this vibrant networking environment to share experiences, insights and best practices to reinvigorate tourism growth in a post-pandemic world.”

“It is a cost-effective and flexible hospitality proposition. Hotels can engage with us for specific operational requirements or contract us to manage an entire property, either under the Trendz brand or as a white label product.”

One of Farnek’s most recent accomplishments was the development of an app called ‘Flexi-Guest’, which digitises the guest journey from pre-arrival to check out. The app, which was developed in-house, interfaces with a hotel’s property management system affording guests a whole suite of services, from uploading travel documents to ordering a car on arrival, room service and laundry. The app can also send automated electronic updates and alerts to the guest as well as e-registration documents, e-invoices and e-receipts, all in one convenient space.

Farnek recently completed a successful trial of the app, having secured a contract for Expo Village, situated at the Expo 2020 Dubai site. The company was responsible for managing reservation services, concierge, front office services and housekeeping for 2,273 apartments during the show.

Sustainability is key to Farnek’s hospitality strategy and Flexi-Guest can estimate the carbon emissions generated by any guest during their stay and provide a cost should the customer wish to offset their carbon footprint.

Visitors to Farnek’s stand at ATM will be able to measure their own carbon footprint, with an option to contribute to a range of sustainable projects to offset their impact on the environment.

Hoteliers will also be able to take advantage of Farnek’s Hotel Optimizer software, which records, analyses and benchmarks energy and water consumption as well as waste generation, resulting in a more costefficient and sustainable operation.

The company can also support hotels that wish to develop and implement net zero carbon strategies.

Furthermore, Farnek is a preferred partner and auditor for Green Globe, the worldwide sustainability accreditation system. It is based on internationally accepted criteria for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism businesses and is an essential attribute for green listings on Booking.com or to be labelled ‘Eco-Certified’ in Google search results.

“We believe that our 360-degree market proposition for the hotel sector is unrivalled and our participation at ATM provides us with an ideal platform to showcase our services to a targeted audience of over 20,000, local, regional and international travel and tourism professionals.”

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‫رو بعد‬ َ ُ‫حكايات مل ت‬

LET OUR STORIES UNFOLD .‫� يكشف عن فصل جحديد من حكايته‬ ‫إرث أبوظ�ج � ي‬ Erth Abu Dhabi reveals its next chapter.

‫إقامة تروي حكاية‬

Stay with a story .‫قري�ا‬ ‫ًج‬ ‫ االفتتاح‬.‫ املسبح‬،�‫الشاط‬ ،‫الفيالت‬ ‫ئ‬

The villas, beach and pool. Unveiling soon.

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Erth Abu Dhabi to present new product at ATM Amit Arora

Erth Abu Dhabi

With robust development currently underway at Erth Abu Dhabi, the hotel is set to showcase its new offering at ATM 2022. As part of the property’s transformation, the hotel is set to raise the curtain on its new beach, pool and villa offering in the last quarter of 2022.

“Last year at ATM, Erth Abu Dhabi announced the ‘Birth of Erth’ and a

lot has happened since then,” said Amit Arora, Chief Operating Officer.

“Now we are in the final stages of launching our leisure product – pool, beach and villas – which we are showcasing to the travel trade at this year’s show. Erth is well poised to capitalise on the pent-up demand for leisure travel and staycations and also

cater to the MICE sector and the business of weddings. Our state-of-the-art ballroom is also due to launch this year.

“Furthermore, we are strengthening our business in the leisure and wellness segment under our Etizan Fitness brand with the opening of the pool and beach. And finally, we also have Erth Catering, which continues to deliver

excellence at scale across the UAE. With the successful repositioning of Erth Abu Dhabi and a brand new prime product imminently set to launch, we are very excited about what lies ahead.”

The brand – formerly known as the Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel – has been participating in ATM since its inception and has now taken its own stand to exhibit itself as a standalone independent homegrown company.

Arora added: “As a true homegrown brand, we aspire to be the beacon of Emirati hospitality. We have a very attractive proposition for the local and regional markets. Staycations are already an important part of our business. With the new product coming soon, we will be tapping into the higher end of the market seeking bespoke luxury experiences rooted in Emirati heritage and culture.”

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India’s outbound travel sector set to boom India’s travel industry is projected to make a buoyant recovery in the coming years, accounting for 29 million outbound trips per year by 2025, showing positive recovery for the post-pandemic era. Analysis from Global Data and ResearchandMarkets.com predicts India’s outbound tourism market will surpass US$42 billion by the end of 2024.

Data from Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) shows that the country ranked top of the emirate’s source market list for 2021, accounting for 910,000 inbound visitors. Short-haul flight queries for destinations including Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Egypt witnessed a 30 percent uptick among Indian tourists, according to Thomas Cook India.

ATM 2022 will host a dedicated India forum in addition to a range of high-profile exhibitors from India, including India Tourism, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board and ITC Hotels.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “The

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global pandemic had a major impact on India’s travel sector but, as our industry’s global post-pandemic recovery continues to gather pace, Indian tourists appear eager to return to their favourite Middle Eastern destinations. We are excited to explore the vast potential of this vital source market as part of our dedicated buyer forum at ATM 2022.”

The number of inbound tourists travelling from India to the UAE has witnessed a 50 percent increase, with VFS Global processing 40,000 travel visas since Dubai reopened its borders following the pandemic.

With the reopening of the Indian skies, connections to and from India now reach 3,250 flights per week by 66 airlines. Emirates alone is now back to pre-pandemic frequencies, operating 170 weekly flights to nine cities, which underscores the importance of the Indian market for the region.

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Taj Mahal

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Japan set for strong showing at ATM

Himeji, Japan

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) is set for a strong showing at ATM 2022. A key objective for JNTO at the event is the generation of awareness amongst the Middle East region’s leading travel and media professionals. This year’s efforts will highlight Japan’s unique and diverse

tourist attractions under the banner of ‘Japan. Endless Discovery’.

JNTO’s participation this year is particularly significant as 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and the UAE. Coming on the heels of the opening of the JNTO Dubai Office in 2021, as

part of the Japanese government’s strategic goal of welcoming 60 million international visitors by 2030, this year’s participation is a further commitment to JNTO’s focus on making the Middle East a priority market.

Mizuki Onishi, Senior Director of the JNTO Dubai office, said: “We are

delighted to be exhibiting at ATM 2022, the largest travel trade fair in the Middle East. We are also very honoured to be participating during the year marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the UAE and Japan, a significant milestone. Through our participation at such events as ATM, we plan to strengthen our cooperation with the region’s airlines and travel agencies while raising interest in the Middle East for travel to Japan.”

JNTO has recently launched social media channels in Arabic to engage with potential travellers from the region.

The new Facebook and Instagram channels are designed to inspire with engaging posts that show the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Japan, along with interesting information and stories that are sure to spark interest.

With Expo 2020 Dubai having recently closed its doors after a successful run, the excitement is continuing in Japan as the country gears up to host the next edition of this much-loved global event. Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan will take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025.

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Meet us at ATM on stand HC0720 At Rotana, we believe time well spent, is a life well lived. This enduring thought is at the heart of every experience we promise when you stay with us.

Our distinct collection of brands include Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Centro Hotels, Resorts and Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts and The Residences by Rotana.

Transform moments into memorable experiences as we present a selection of diverse destinations, ideal for every journey.

To find out more, visit rotana.com Treasured time. Our promise to you.

P.O. Box 95100, Abu Dhabi, UAE. T: +971 (0) 2 699 4444 F: +971 (0) 2 699 4445, head.office@rotana.com

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Wellness and ecotourism to feature at Diriyah’s Wadi Hanifah

Wadi Hanifah

Wellness and eco-tourism are at the top of Diriyah Gate Development Authority’s (DGDA) agenda for ATM as the group announces its plan for Wadi Hanifah.

As one of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic nature-based escapes from Riyadh, it will connect visitors and the community to nature, culture and history.

Plans outline the restoration of two square kilometres of unique palm groves containing hundreds of thousands of trees from species native to the wadi, as well as creating new parks with walking trails, biking tracks, outdoor areas for games and picnic spots.

The valley of Wadi Hanifah fringes the western edge of historic Diriyah, which is the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the home of Al Saud.

These rich, fertile farmlands surrounding the banks of the oasis valley of Wadi Hanifah provided a source of food and shade for its past inhabitants, protecting them from harsh desert conditions. It also offered a geographically strategic location for the citadel of At-Turaif.

At-Turaif, a collection of beautifully preserved historical palaces, was the capital of the first Saudi state. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is imbued with Saudi Arabia’s national history and identity and is a defining cultural influence on the broader Arabian Peninsula.

The wadi will feature easy access to a walkway which offers stunning, unparalleled views of the

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site. Wellness spaces, activity zones and eco-tourism attractions will be at the heart of the wadi’s enhancement, which aims to improve the quality of life. Visitors can take part in a variety of outdoor pursuits throughout the entire area, offering opportunities for a healthy, active lifestyle.

The Wadi Hanifah master plan will comprise four interactive zones, including the Heritage and Culture zone, Wadi Living with various recreational spaces in nature, the Eco-Tourism zone, which will feature the Barari Diriyah Wildlife Conservation Centre and the Palm Heritage Centre for Research and Wadi Hanifah

Development, and, lastly, a Sports and Activity zone for adventure activities.

The restoration of Wadi Hanifah forms a key part of Diriyah’s US$50.6 billion master plan that will transform Diriyah into one of the world’s most exciting cultural tourist destinations.

Hospitality, commercial, retail and nature offerings will both leverage and elevate the exceptionally distinctive character and cultural importance of the area and support Diriyah’s overall mission to share, protect and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s national heritage.

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Swiss-Belhotel International ups expansion plans Swiss-Belhotel International has announced ambitious expansion plans with a strategic focus on Central and Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa. As part of the move, the group recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Odyssey Group to support its expansion in Japan.

The Hong Kong-headquartered company is looking at other asset management alliances globally to support its expansion and is presently negotiating more opportunities. This is a pivot in the company’s expansion approach by working with third-party asset managers and investment bankers.

Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, said: “We are well placed to take advantage of the growing confidence in travel and very excited to continue our global expansion with a strong focus on Central and Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa. These regions hold enormous potential for our brands and are important growth markets for us.

“Today, we are at 125 hotels and are aiming towards a healthy growth of 250 hotels by 2030. Working closely with our owners, we have been successfully navigating the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic and look forward to driving value to our owners, associates, employees and guests through our diverse brands.”

As part of its robust expansion in Southeast Asia, Swiss-Belhotel International recently set up a regional office in Thailand. The company is looking to capitalise on new opportunities in priority markets like Thailand and Vietnam where it has multiple hotel projects in advanced negotiations.

Faull added: “While we are particularly pleased with our progress in Thailand and Vietnam, Southeast Asia as a whole offers tremendous opportunity to expand our footprint further. Our collaboration with the Odyssey Group, which is one of Asia’s leading mid-market private market asset managers providing differentiated and bespoke investment solutions across multiple asset classes, is aimed at bolstering our expansion in Japan.”

As the travel market continues to recover, Swiss-Belhotel International is also looking to increase its presence in Africa with several deals under negotiation.

“African countries are still underserved by branded hotel supply despite solid domestic demand. We are witnessing strong owner interest in our brands across Africa with many promising opportunities in the pipeline that we expect to finalise soon.”

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Shurooq to showcase new hospitality projects Lux* Al Bridi Resort

Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), under the umbrella of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), marks its 15th consecutive participation in ATM. Furthering its mission to continue boosting the region’s investment potential in the eco-inspired travel sector, Shurooq will unveil new hospitality projects at the show. The entity will also showcase its diverse portfolio of existing eco-destinations that champion the spirit of conservation and the preservation of local culture and heritage.

Among Shurooq’s latest projects, which will be making its ATM debut, is Lux* Al Jabal Resort, a luxurious beach resort in Khorfakkan overlooking the pristine waters of Soueifa Beach.

Also on showcase is Lux* Al Bridi Resort in Al Dhaid, set adjacent to the Sharjah Safari, the largest wildlife safari in the world outside of Africa, where Shurooq and the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) will collaborate to curate unique guest interactions with the wild. Lastly, Nomad, which explores the emirate’s nature

through a unique beach trailer experience in Al Hamriya, will also be highlighted.

Shurooq also aims to update industry stakeholders and investors on their latest contributions to the emirate’s travel sector, particularly through responsible and sustainable eco-tourism, beach tourism and culture and heritage projects.

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Acting CEO of Shurooq, said: “The tourism and travel sector is one of the key drivers of the global economy and it contributes significantly to the UAE’s GDP. Shurooq

is building new destinations for travellers and planning several other projects, which will be announced in the near future. ATM is a significant platform for us and we look forward to reconnecting and sharing our latest developments and discussing new investment opportunities with global industry partners as we highlight Sharjah’s ever-expanding travel and hospitality sector, particularly in the heritage, nature- and eco-inspired and sustainable travel segments.”

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JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh to debut this summer

Discover a world of memorable experiences and inspiring moments at Dusit Hotels and Resorts.

Stay in incredible destinations and find the comfort and convenience you deserve – all uniquely enriched

by Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality.

JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh

Marriott International has its sights set on expansion in Saudi Arabia with the opening of JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh.

Marking the JW Marriott brand’s debut in the capital, the new hotel will open to guests this summer.

Tamer Taha Mohammed Khalaf, the hotel’s Executive Assistant Manager, said: “Working on the opening of JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh has been a one-ofa-kind experience and I am very excited to introduce the JW Marriott brand debut in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at ATM.” Occupying one of the most coveted addresses in the capital – in close proximity to King Abdullah Financial

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District – it will bring a new paradigm of five-star experiences for guests to enjoy in the kingdom, combining luxury, style and comfort to offer a transformative and elevated stay.

JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh spans 66 floors, with 349 rooms and suites.

Guests will be able to experience world-class dining outlets as well as exceptional facilities, including business and wellness. The flagship hotel will exude the brand’s philosophy of warmth, presence and unity through every corner and detail, from design to service.

Find us at HC0525 Learn More

dusit.com Bhutan • China • Egypt • Maldives • Oman • Philippines • Qatar • Singapore • Thailand • United Arab Emirates • Vietnam Upcoming destinations: Greece • Japan • Kenya • Nepal Elite Havens: India • Indonesia • Japan • Maldives • Sri Lanka • Thailand

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Emirates showcases Premium Economy offering At ATM this year, Emirates is unveiling its full Premium Economy cabin experience. Aligning with ATM 2022’s theme of ‘The future of international travel and tourism’, Emirates’ presence at the event this year will be fittingly themed ‘The future is now’.

The Emirates stand will also offer members of the travel and tourism industry from over 112 countries a chance to experience the airline’s signature products in every cabin class.

Over four days, Emirates’ executives and commercial teams will be at the airline’s stand with a busy agenda of face-to-face business meetings, taking the opportunity to network and reconnect with travel trade industry partners and establishing new partnerships in line with the airline’s work to help the industry collectively rebuild better for the future.

The popular Emirates Premium Economy seat, which will be on display at ATM, is a luxurious take on the traditional cabin, providing more comfort with legroom of up to 40 inches, wide seats that span 19.5 inches with a generous eight-inch recline and other thoughtful touches for customers to comfortably sit back and relax.

In addition, Emirates will also feature its show-stopping Boeing 777-300ER game-changer First Class fully enclosed private suite, Boeing 777 Business Class seat and the newest generation A380 Onboard Lounge, along with other products such as the First Class Shower Spa and its generously pitched game-changer Economy Class seats.

Emirates Premium Economy

Earlier this year, the Dubai-based airline launched Dubai Experience, a platform for customers to easily browse, create and book customised itineraries, including flights, hotel stays, visits to key attractions and other dining and leisure experiences in Dubai and the UAE. The platform allows Emirates’ customers in 19 countries to build rich and customised itineraries from a selection of over 100 hotels and 200 activities – all of which can be added to an existing Emirates flight booking or created around a new one.

Customers who plan and book their journeys via the Dubai Experience platform can enjoy savings on flights, discounted rates on hotel bookings and other benefits, exclusive pricing on activities and access to curated recommendations of the best things to do on their trip.

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Dubai Experience

Rotana introduces new dining platform Homegrown hospitality leader Rotana announced the launch of its newest online platform ‘Rotana at the Table’. The platform aims to create a community of engaged dining enthusiasts and provide innovative content to drive awareness of the food and beverage culture in the UAE. Commenting on the launch, Jarrett Beaulieu, Corporate Vice President – Food & Beverage of Rotana, said: “With Rotana at the Table, we want to inspire foodies and enthusiasts with creative and dynamic content, featuring the best dishes and beverages from Rotana outlets, the most desirable recipes from our experts and partners from around the world and showcase the latest global and local industry trends.”

With sustainability embedded at the core of its operations, Rotana at the Table will showcase the group’s ongoing efforts in sustainable dining. Since 2019, when Rotana introduced its first vegan

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menu, the group has continued to focus on sourcing sustainable ingredients from organic and local farms, introducing dishes crafted with guests’ health in mind and the wellbeing of the environment.

“With sustainable and zero waste meals rising in popularity, as consumers continue to understand the importance and implications of such practices, Rotana at the Table will ensure to promote mindful eating and offer the best of healthy eating choices with fresh local produce,” added Beaulieu.

Rotana continues to grow its expansive portfolio with 17 new food and beverage outlets projected in 2022. These venues are set to offer guests innovative and unique dining experiences, coupled with exemplary service standards while delivering on the company’s promise of ‘Treasured Time’.

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Jarrett Beaulieu

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Radisson expands in Saudi Arabia Radisson Hotel Group recently doubled its presence in Jeddah with the addition of over 600 rooms, most of which will open in 2022 with the launch of the Radisson Individuals brand in the region.

Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport also recently opened, with more launches on the way, including the Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. Bringing the second Radisson Collection hotel to Riyadh is Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel.

Building on the success of the group’s five-year expansion and transformation plan, Radisson Hotel Group remains firmly committed to becoming the brand of choice for owners, partners and guests. This growing portfolio will help to support Saudi Arabia’s goal of 100 million visitors by 2030 as the group’s portfolio in the kingdom now makes up around 50 percent of its presence in the Middle East.

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Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel

Globally renowned multi-national hospitality company Radisson Hotel Group is continuing its substantial expansion in Saudi Arabia as one of the fastest-growing companies in the region.

The opening of Radisson Hotel Group’s regional headquarters in Riyadh towards the end of 2022 was in response to its growing portfolio in the kingdom and, with this launch, it becomes the largest country for RHG in the region.

The move will help generate many new job opportunities and enhance

the group’s commitment to developing and creating exchange programs for Saudi talent in the hospitality sector.

Saudi Arabia remains a key development area for Radisson. As part of its five-year transformation plan, the group aims to double its presence in the kingdom. Today, the hospitality giant operates 25 hotels, resorts and serviced apartments in the country and has another 20 under development.

The development momentum continues with several milestones.

Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport

Spain to highlight tourism offering at ATM

Mallorca

With the Middle East one of its primary markets, Spain will be showcasing its diverse tourism proposition at ATM with an aim to attract a higher number of travellers from the region this year.

The European nation has positioned itself as an ideal destination for postpandemic travel this summer with low restrictions and easy access, guaranteeing the safety of all visitors.

The tourism board has its sights set on a successful summer this year, with 2021 seeing a favourable rebound to levels that were almost as significant as pre-pandemic numbers.

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Daniel Rosado, Director-Spain Tourism - GCC and Iran, said: “Spain is open for travellers from the Middle East. In Spain, you can enjoy a range of activities, from world-class cities to stunning landscapes, beaches and mountains. It’s perfect for all types of travellers. With the ease of restrictions and Spain being one of the most vaccinated amongst European countries, it makes it even more attractive for tourists to visit the country and we are eager to welcome all travellers as before.”

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ATM 2022 Highlights

In the spotlight

With a carefully curated conference programme, ATM 2022 will highlight the future of international travel and tourism Now in its 29th year working in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the 2022 edition of Arabian Travel Market marks the annual event’s second in-person exhibition since the onset of the pandemic in 2020. The leading global exhibition dedicated to inbound and outbound travel and tourism in the Middle East, ATM serves as the ideal platform for travel and tourism professionals and businesses in the region to unlock their maximum potential.

For the last 28 years, the event has connected products and destinations from around the world with buyers and travel trade visitors at DWTC. Considered by industry professionals as a barometer for the tourism sector in the Middle East and North Africa, ATM hosts the biggest names in the business during the four-day event. Travel luminaries and high-profile brands are in attendance, showcasing their latest products and technological innovations, while the carefully curated conference programme features some of the most influential speakers in the industry.

THE WAY FORWARD With restrictions continuing to ease around the world and the travel industry pulling out all the stops to recover, ATM 2022 will throw the spotlight on the future of the business. The theme ‘The future of international travel and tourism’ has aptly been chosen for this year’s show.

“After two years of uncertainty caused by the global pandemic, we truly believe that ATM 2022 offers the international travel community an ideal opportunity to come together to explore the long-term strategic direction of our industry,” said Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, ATM. “This year’s theme will shine a spotlight on the growth trajectory of our industry as travel and tourism professionals address the challenges and capitalise on the inevitable opportunities that lie ahead.

“To achieve that goal, we aim to provide an innovative and inclusive platform from which industry professionals from around the world can reconnect face to face, exchanging ideas, views and opinions in a collaborative and positive environment,” she explained.

The theme ‘The future of international travel and tourism’ has aptly been chosen for this year’s show ON THE AGENDA Supporting this year’s theme, the conference programme will bring together industry experts who will address the latest trends and movements steering the industry forward.

Topics will cover everything from COVID-19 recovery, aviation and hospitality to responsible tourism and business travel while also spotlighting new technologies that are driving

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ATM 2022 Highlights

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ATM 2021

positive change. Through valuable insights shared on the show floor, the event will help map out the future of the industry while exploring new trends, opportunities for growth, innovation and, of course, effective recovery.

“We have so much in store for our participants this year. Show highlights will include, amongst others, destination summits focused on the key source markets of Saudi Arabia and India,” said Curtis.

“For the first time ever, the Arival Dubai @ ATM forum and the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) session will take place live in Dubai, after joining us remotely for ATM 2021.

The former will cover current and future trends for tour operators and attractions, focusing on business development harnessing marketing, technology, distribution, thought leadership and executive-level connections.

“Meanwhile, GBTA, the world’s premier business travel and meetings trade organisation, will discuss its latest business travel content and research, during two main sessions on the Global Stage.”

FINGER ON THE PULSE The Middle East Tourism Investment Summit organised by ITIC is one of the biggest highlights of this year’s ATM Global Stage. Taking place on Tuesday, May 10, the summit will host panel discussions, one-to-one interviews and presentations that will highlight the region as a major financial hub for global tourism investments.

Industry experts will discuss the factors driving investment in the region’s tourism industry, new and improved flight connectivity in the Middle East that will further support tourism growth and the financing of future tourism projects.

TIME FOR TECH Travel has never been as complex as it is today. With the pent-up desire to explore the world and reach new places – as safely and securely as possible – the reliance on technology has increased drastically. This means that there is ample potential for businesses to tap into these trends and leverage new technologies to create seamless experiences for customers. Travel technology is, therefore, once again, a major focus.

“The revamped and rebranded ATM Travel Tech event – previously known as Travel Forward – will take place at ATM 2022, hosting seminars, debates and presentations,” said Curtis.

ATM Travel Tech is the event for cutting-edge technology for travel and hospitality, attracting decision makers from across the globe. Across four days, attendees can expect insights, open debate, unrivalled networking opportunities and discussions on the latest technologies and trends that will shape the future of travel.

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Another key event taking place on the ATM Travel Tech Stage is the firstever ATM Draper-Aladdin Start-up Competition, which is a new and exciting forum designed to showcase the very latest technology innovations from some of the brightest minds in the travel and hospitality industry.

“The inaugural competition will offer an incredible opportunity for startups and entrepreneurs from across the industry to pitch their business plans to industry judges and investors. It will take place on the ATM Travel Tech Stage on Tuesday, May 10, 2022, where up to 15 start-ups will vie for up to half a million dollars of funding, a DASC Certificate and the chance to appear on Tim Draper’s TV show, Meet the Draper,” explained Curtis.

VIRTUAL PERSPECTIVES To complement the four-day in-person show and reach a wider audience than ever before, ATM’s hybrid format returns this year, following last year’s success, from May 17 to 18.

Curtis explained: “It is imperative to include a virtual element as part of Arabian Travel Week because many industry professionals from around the world may not be able to attend the in-person event. ATM Virtual, now in its third year, will feature speed networking events, a virtual digital influencers’ speed networking session and one-toone meetings. It will also facilitate online networking and a wide range of business opportunities. Sessions from the in-person show will also be available on-demand during the virtual event.

Virtual destination briefings will also be available which will provide industry professionals with an opportunity to showcase their destination to ATM’s audience of travel buyers globally.”

A WEEK IN TRAVEL Arabian Travel Week made its debut during the 2019 edition of ATM and returns this year from May 9 to 19, 2022.

Curtis said: “Arabian Travel Week is a 10-day festival of events, dedicated to enabling international travel professionals from across the industry to discuss strategies and potential partnerships that will drive the recovery of the Middle East travel industry through exhibitions, conferences, breakfast briefings, awards, product launches and networking events.

“The travel events that are part of Arabian Travel Week include the in-person Arabian Travel Market exhibition, luxury travel event ILTM Arabia, influencers’ events and activations, as well as Travel Tech, Arival Dubai for the tours and attractions sector, regional buyer forums, and, of course, ATM Virtual,” explained Curtis.

During Arabian Travel Week, all eyes will be on the city as Dubai invites the international travel industry to come together and take part in the events that shape the future of travel.

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Exhibitor Profile - Anantara Hotels Dubai

Set for success

Discover one of Dubai’s most iconic properties on Palm Jumeirah Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort has become one of Palm Jumeirah’s most iconic properties since it opened almost a decade ago. In an ever-evolving and fiercely competitive market like Dubai, it has gained its status as a firm fixture on the emirate’s hospitality scene.

This constant renovation from Anantara, part of the Thai-based Minor Hotels group, and its refusal to sit on its laurels is why the hotel continues to prove popular with residents and international visitors alike.

James Hewitson, Cluster General Manager for Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort and Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort, said: “After nine years of operations, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort has continually progressed in terms of new developments. The property has undergone renovation throughout different areas of the resort, with phase two set to complete in the middle of 2022 and phase three in 2023.”

There are also plans to add eight swimming pools to the already popular overwater villas, adding a new element of luxury to its Thai-inspired design. Other renovations include an interior overhaul of the one-bedroom beach pool villas, premier lagoon access rooms and family lagoon access rooms.

The resort’s restaurants will follow suit, with the much-loved Beach House set to undergo a complete renovation and rebrand, not only showcasing a refreshed look but also increasing its

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capacity by 50 more covers towards the scenic shoreline.

This year is set to be another exciting milestone, said Hewitson, after the longawaited opening of Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort in December 2021.

Another Minor-branded resort is set to make its grand opening in the second quarter of this year. NH Dubai The Palm will be the latest offering in the Minor Hotels portfolio.

Speaking of the new launch, he said: “The 533-key property will pave the way for a chic lifestyle resort in the heart of Palm Jumeirah. Located on Dubai’s global landmark, NH Dubai The Palm will be part of Seven Hotel & Apartments, a mixed-use development consisting of a hospitality tower and a residential tower.”

The new 14-storey property will offer 227 hotel guest rooms and suites, in addition to 306 serviced apartments.

Facilities will feature multiple restaurants and bars, including a rooftop pool and an evening venue, along with three spa treatment rooms, a kids’ club and four meeting rooms.

It is a buoyant start to the year in spite of a crippling pandemic which has hit many of the region’s biggest brands hard. However, Dubai continues to rank among the world’s most resilient tourism economies, top of the Bloomberg Covid Resiliency Rankings in November, meaning the future is bright.

“The pandemic has undoubtedly brought about its challenges among

We’re very excited to present Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort as it brings a unique concept to the UAE not only the hospitality industry but the world at large. However, unlike most resorts, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort never closed its doors to guests.”

As the world begins to come together once again in person, ATM is at the heart of that for the region’s industry leaders. “ATM allows us to restore professional relationships and strengthen our network with partners.

It is refreshing to have a space where industry leaders and professionals can regroup and discuss the latest developments. It’s important to note that all sectors are looking forward to achieving the same success of 2021 through the years, and ATM will help highlight these accomplishments.”

Showcasing its latest property on Dubai’s World Islands, a unique new offering to the UAE like nothing else in the market, will be a major feature of the group’s participation. “We’re very excited to present Anantara World Islands Dubai

Resort as it is a great opportunity to bring a unique Maldivian-style concept to the UAE,” he said.

However, the constant evolution of Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort remains key. The team’s leadership is also hoping to re-engage with current and new partners at ATM as well as learn from key source markets in order to become a more ecologically, financially and overall, more reputable resort on an international scale.

“At ATM this year, we aim to discuss strategy, engage in healthy discussions with partners and promote overall tourism in Dubai. With the combined efforts of the hospitality, aviation and tourism industries, we can focus on accomplishing our goals to increase market share and drive the leisure economy during 2022 and beyond.”

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Saudi Arabia - Advertorial

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Leading by example

As one of the Middle East’s most exciting new destinations, tourism development is an important driver of growth for the future of Saudi Arabia Riyadh

2022

KEY INDICATORS

5.3%

CONTRIBUTION TO GDP

836,000

NEW JOBS CREATED

62 million TOTAL VISITATION

32.5 million DOMESTIC VISITATION

29.5 million

INTERNATIONAL VISITATION

2030

KEY INDICATORS

10%+

CONTRIBUTION TO GDP

1 million

NEW JOBS CREATED

When Saudi Arabia announced Vision 2030, one of the key pillars at the heart of this plan was to help diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil. The Ministry of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Tourism Development Fund were established with clear remits to support the growth of this significant sector and help it to flourish.

Announced in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Vision 2030 is an ambitious scheme that intends to completely reshape the kingdom’s economy into one that is self-sufficient, progressive and diversified, with massive changes including opening up to the world’s intrepid travellers.

Authorities saw an overwhelming 300,000 applications in the first four months of introducing the instant eVisa system. More than 3,500 tourism investment licenses were issued since the 2019 announcement, allowing the world’s travellers to witness the wonders of this Middle Eastern treasure. By March 2020, just before the pandemic hit, the kingdom had already welcomed more than 440,000 international tourists.

Through the fast and easy-touse online portal, international visitors from 49 eligible countries can apply for an eVisa and discover the warm hospitality of the Saudi people, the rich heritage, vibrant culture and diverse

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and breathtaking landscapes, from the mountains of Abha to the beaches of the Red Sea and the shifting sands of the Empty Quarter.

The one-year, multiple entry visa, allows tourists to spend up to 90 days in the country and covers tourism-related activities and Umrah (excluding Hajj).

In addition to opening up some of the country’s most breathtaking destinations to the world, the Vision 2030 scheme includes ambitious

Visitors can discover the warm hospitality of the Saudi people, the rich heritage, vibrant culture and diverse and breathtaking landscapes

targets, such as increasing the capacity for Umrah visitors from eight million to 30 million, lowering the unemployment rate, increasing women’s participation in the workforce and also driving foreign investment.

DESTINATION FOCUS Among the key destinations being developed for the expected influx of foreign visitors is AlUIa. Home to one of the kingdom’s finest UNESCO World Heritage Sites, AlUla is located deep in the desert to the northwest of Saudi Arabia. With the makings of a bucket list-topping global destination, it boasts ancient tombs, the legacy of 7,000 years of human civilisation, stunning natural rock formations and canyons, a plethora of adventure sports options and cuttingedge art installations.

Al Ahsa is another of the country’s key showcase destinations. With more than 2.5 million date palm trees blanketing a verdant expanse inland from Saudi Arabia’s Gulf coast, Al Ahsa is an archetypal lush desert oasis. One of Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO World Heritagelisted regions, Al Ahsa was also recently recognised by the Guinness World Records as the largest self-contained oasis in the world.

Visitors to Al Ahsa have much to choose from, including hot and cold

100 million TOTAL VISITATION

45 million

DOMESTIC VISITATION

55 million

INTERNATIONAL VISITATION

springs, historic mosques and sweeping panoramic vistas. Truly, there is a lot to explore in this 6,000-year-old oasis, which has long been a gateway to the Arabian Peninsula.

The country’s capital city, Riyadh, is at the heart of Vision 2030, offering a fascinating blend of old and new. A modern metropolis, it is also home to the first historic roots of Arabia. Riyadh’s modern skyscraper-studded skyline is also paralleled with a fascinating centuries-old history that can be found within atmospheric souks, compelling museums and ancient architecture.

Among Saudi Arabia’s targets is more than doubling the number of heritage sites registered with UNESCO. It currently stands at six, including Al Ahsa Oasis and At-Turaif District in ad-Diriyah, with a further 10 sites on the tentative list including the Hejaz Railway and Rijal Almaa Heritage Village.

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Advertorial - NEOM

The new frontier

Yabou Island

Discover NEOM – one of the world’s most ambitious tourism projects NEOM is one of the world’s most ambitious projects, a bold vision to design and create a sustainable blueprint for humankind. Beyond being a place, NEOM is an idea with a mission to build a better world based on the fundamentals of sustainability and livability, enabled by cutting-edge technology and always with nature at the core.

Tourism is the gateway for the world to experience this vision, explore the land and discover the world changing ideas that are driving it.

NEOM is the most ancient of lands, found at the crossroads of civilisations, a rugged and spectacular landscape, crisscrossed by ancient trade routes and traversed by cultures for thousands of

years. Into this ancient landscape, the new project will seed and nurture the ideas to create the tourism of tomorrow.

The future city is already melding “the raw land with new thinking”, forging experiences unlike anything before.

Untamed and majestic landscapes are mixed with science and technology, where visitors will be able to ski in the desert mountains of Saudi Arabia, witness the return of long-lost animals, swim among secret corals with the rarest of sea creatures and explore an untold history and heritage through the most immersive augmented and virtual reality experiences.

NEOM is led by a commitment to forever alter the possibilities of travel

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NEOM is led by a commitment to forever alter the possibilities of travel Al Badh

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– from how people will travel to how visitors will experience travel and from what people will see to how they will see it, pushing the boundaries of what is truly possible for tomorrow’s traveller.

In reimagining the world of travel, NEOM Tourism is driven by four key imperatives. The first is creating the world’s most desirable destination by reigniting the imagination of travellers to seek out this new, unseen and undiscovered land. It allows them to go where few have been and experience what few have done. It encourages them to push beyond their current boundaries and unlock the explorer inside.

The second pillar is tackling the issues of over-tourism and tourism’s carbon footprint by creating the world’s first measurable net-positive destination, where those who come will be able to make effective choices, to not only reduce their impact on the environment

but leave it better knowing that every step they take is for good.

The third priority is challenging the tourism industry’s technology inertia by injecting ‘Tech Wonderment’ into the stories and experiences of NEOM to immerse visitors into this land in the most unexpected and wondrous ways.

The final pillar is replacing the red tape with the red carpet, so that visitors spend their time enjoying the sites and delights without the hassles of the rules and paperwork they currently encounter, despite this being the 21st century.

NEOM Tourism will create the desire to come, the welcoming, the experiences to be had and the forging of a long-term emotional engagement that will see the project become a new place in the world’s heart, not just a new place on the world map.

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A New Dawn for Travel and Tourism - Feature 19 DISCOVER JOURNEYS OF ASIAN SPLENDOUR ON THE SHORES OF PALM JUMEIRAH.

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Encounter a blend of island luxury with vibrant city life for your seamless vacation. Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort offers all the elements for a great escape – whether for days of seaside romantic bliss or fun-filled family adventure.

Stay in spacious rooms or villas that reflect the Thai origins of Anantara, whilst embracing the lavish opulence of this ground-breaking destination.

Laze by your private infinity pool or step into the shimmering lagoons straight from your room. Exquisite gastronomy awaits at our fine dining venues.

Experience a traditional Turkish Hammam or one of our signature therapies in the soothing surrounds of Anantara Spa. Delight in a coastal paradise overlooking the glittering city lights of Dubai.

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com

ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI RESORT P.O. BOX 71607, EAST CRESCENT, PALM JUMEIRAH, DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES T +971 4 567 8888 E resdubaipalm@anantara.com

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Seminar Schedule

ATM Global Stage MONDAY 9TH MAY 12:00 - 13:00 ATM OPENING SESSION: THE FUTURE OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL Leading industry figureheads discuss the future of international travel, identifying new trends and global movements steering the sector forward. Find out what factors, priorities and innovations are reshaping the industry for generations to come.

Moderator: Eleni Giokos, Anchor and Correspondent, CNN Speakers: Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing; Scott Livermore, Chief Economist, Oxford Economics; Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, President, Middle East, Africa, & Turkey, Hilton; Bilal Kabbani, Industry Head, Travel & Tourism, Google; Andrew Brown, Regional Director Europe, Middle East & Oceania, World Travel & Tourism Council

13:15 - 14:15 INVESTMENT MINISTERIAL ROUNDTABLE - WHAT IS DRIVING INVESTMENTS IN THE TRAVEL AND TOURISM SECTOR? Tourism destinations in the Middle East are widening their appeal, extending their offerings from luxury hotels to the mid-market segment and as these countries aim at increasing tourist arrivals, a package of incentives has been elaborated to attract FDI. Moderator: Sameer Hashmi, Middle East Business Correspondent, BBC News Speakers: HE Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and SMEs, Chairman of Emirates Tourism Council; HE Nayef Al Fayez, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Jordan; Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica; Hon. Philda Nani Kereng, Minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism, Botswana

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14.45 - 15:45 THE ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET SAUDI FORUM - SESSION 1: FROM STRATEGY TO REALITY: SAUDI ARABIA’S TOURISM VISION COMES OF AGE High-level speakers discuss how the kingdom’s tourism ambitions, including attracting 100 million visitors annually by 2030, are now being realised. This session provides an update on tourism projects and infrastructure progress and new opportunities for stakeholders and niche markets and also looks at what steps must now be taken to boost global awareness of ‘brand KSA’, in order to meet arrivals targets.

Moderator: Dan Murphy, Anchor, CNBC Speakers: Fahd Hamidaddin, Chief Executive Officer, The Saudi Tourism Authority; Fawaz Farooqui, Managing Director, Cruise Saudi; Majed Bin Ayed Al-Nefaie, CEO, Seera Group Holding; Captain Ibrahim S. Koshy, CEO, SAUDIA Air Transport Company

16:00 - 17:00 THE ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET SAUDI FORUM - SESSION 2: SAUDI ARABIA’S BLUEPRINT FOR RESPONSIBLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT Find out how Saudi Arabia is setting a new benchmark for responsible tourism, developing projects that preserve the planet and its people. Experts discuss the role of sustainability, community inclusion, education and training, and the legacy impact of the kingdom’s broadranging tourism vision, underpinned by huge investment in infrastructure and large-scale developments that in the future, will provide a best-practice blueprint for other nations globally.

Moderator: Thomas Urquhart, Broadcaster, Arabian Radio Network Speakers: Melanie de Souza, Executive Director Marketing, The Royal Commission for AlUla; John Pagano, CEO, The Red Sea Development Company and AMAALA; Jerry Inzerillo, CEO, Diriyah Gate Development Authority; Andrew McEvoy, Managing Director Tourism, NEOM

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Seminar Schedule

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TUESDAY 10TH MAY 10:30 - 11:30 AIRLINES EVOLVING FOR THE FUTURE: HEAR FROM THE INDUSTRY LEADERS The interview will address the challenges faced by the aviation due to the pandemic.

It will equally focus on opportunities and structural change for the industry coming out of the crisis. Topics will include the status on markets opening up and the reduction in restrictions, the lessons we have learnt or those that should be learnt and how airlines are managing an increasing debt level, rising fuel prices and likely changes in the passenger mix.

Moderator: John Strickland, Director, JLS Consulting Speakers: Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group; Adel Abdullah Al Ali, Board Member and Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia 12:00 - 12:45 THE FUTURE OF TRANSPORT From new hyperloop systems and driverless vehicles to next-generation aircraft and space travel, new modes of transport are fast emerging, transforming how we move from A to B. Fuel is being redesigned to allow for next-generation aircraft, will SAFs play a role? And do train offerings stand to supplant air travel?

Moderator: Sarah Hymers Hedley, Executive Editor, ConnectingTravel Speakers: Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President, Middle East, Turkey & Africa, Boeing; Kata Cserep, Vice President and Global Managing Director, Aviation, ICF; Karime Makalouf, Chief Commercial Officer, Royal Jordanian

13:15 - 13.45 ARABIC TRAVELLERS INSIGHT: UNDERSTANDING HOW TO CONNECT WITH THE ARABIC TRAVEL AUDIENCE Arab travellers are a powerful consumer segment and while outbound tourism from the GCC means tens of billions spent in the destination countries, it also presents an opportunity for entities with the originating country. Travel is at the top of a GCC consumer’s ‘to-do’ list. D/A’s insight session will look into the current and emerging trends in Arabic traveller behaviour and planning. We will uncover who is the Arabic traveller we will be talking to, where are they looking to go in the world and why, and how can we connect with them and bring them into our worlds. The session will be based on a recent travel study conducted by analysing over 1.3 million travel conversations ambiently in Arabic. D/A’s analytics and science teams have drawn the most impactful and actionable insights from natural conversations to deliver a true picture of Arabic traveller intent and barriers that travel brands can address.

Speaker: Paul Kelly, Managing Partner, D/A 14:00 - 18:00 ITIC MIDDLE EAST TOURISM INVESTMENT SUMMIT Theme: The Middle East as a major financial hub for global tourism investments 14:00 - 14:10 - Welcome notes Speakers: Dr. Taleb Rifai, Chairman ITIC and Former Secretary General

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UNWTO; Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director – Middle East, RX 14:10 - 14:30 - Global Economic Outlook 2022 14:30 - 14:45 - Reenergising air connectivity to support tourism growth in the Middle East A conversation with Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, Flydubai, and Sameer Hashmi, Middle East Business Correspondent, BBC News 14:45 - 15:30 - Panel discussion: How the Middle East is reinventing the financing of future tourism projects?

Moderator: Gerald Lawless, Director, ITIC and WTTC Ambassador Panellists: Sandip Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International; Badr Alherbish, Executive Director of Strategy Tourism Development Fund, Saudi Arabia; Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations & Development, Middle East, Africa & India, SwissBelhotel International; Dinky Puri, Founding Partner, Eaglewing Group 15:30 - 16:00 - Panel discussion: The economic integration of women through the tourism industry Moderator: Elizabeth Maclean, Co-Managing Director, Herdwick Communications Panellists: Marloes Knippenberg, CEO, Kerten Hospitality; Liz Ortiguera, CEO, PATA; Aradhana Khowala, CEO, Aptamind Partners; Maryam Toorani, Director of Marketing & Promotion, Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority; Khadija Mohammad Turki,

Acting Director-General, Ajman Tourism Development Department 16:00 - 16:30 - Destination Focus – Investment Opportunities: Ras Al Khaimah forges ahead Speakers: Raki Phillips, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority; Alison Grinnell, Chief Executive Officer, RAK Hospitality Holding LLC; Abdulla Al Abdouli, CEO of Marjan 16:30-16:45 - Presentations of Tourism Projects Financing Speakers: John Sage, Founder & CEO, Accessible Travel Solutions; Guillaume Pellerin, CEO, Wild World; Mark Abraham, Founder & CEO, Shackle 16:45 -17:15 - Unlocking new modes of payments in the travel and tourism industry Speakers: Dirk Van Loggerenberg, CEO of Dale Capital Group; Dr Kamlen Pillay, CEO, UWell; Yariv Fisher, Chairman, Flyeast GRP 17:15 - 17:55 - Panel discussion: Enhancing preparedness to mitigate the impact of future crises Moderator: Sameer Hashmi, Middle East Business Correspondent, BBC News Panellists: Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts; HE Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica and Co-chair GTRCMC; Taleb Rifai, Chairman ITIC and Former Secretary-General, UNWTO; Paul Griffiths, CEO Dubai Airports 17:55 - 18:00 - Closing Speakers: Dr. Taleb Rifai, Gerald Lawless and Ibrahim Ayoub

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Seminar Schedule

WEDNESDAY 11TH MAY 10:30 - 11:15 THE FUTURE OF THE REGION’S HOTEL INDUSTRY Where is the Middle East’s hotel sector heading? Where are the development hotspots and what potential is there to bring new hospitality concepts to fruition?

Moderator: Paul Clifford, Group Editor, Hospitality, ITP Media Group Speakers: Christopher Lund, Director, Head of Hotels MENA, Colliers International; Mark Kirby, Head of Hospitality, Emaar Hospitality Group; Tim Cordon, Area Senior Vice President Middle East & Africa, Radisson Hotel Group; Judit Toth, Founder & CEO, Vivere Hospitality 11:45 - 12:30 WHAT GUESTS REALLY WANT From experiential and eco-conscious stays with a local edge and wellness experiences that go beyond spas to loyalty programmes and apps that meet new lifestyle demands, this session looks at what motivates guests in 2022.

Moderator: Gemma Greenwood, Director, Content Inc. Speakers: Folker Heim, Chief Operating Officer, Global Hotel Alliance; Chris Nader, Co-Founder, ENVI Lodges; Federico Toresi, Global VP Design, Ultra Luxe, Luxury & Premium Brands, Accor; Walter Knight, Director of Hospitality, Farnek Services LLC; James Britchford, Vice President Commercial IMEA, InterContinental Hotels Group

12:45 - 13:30 SPORTS TOURISM KICKS OFF IN THE GULF Major destinations across the Gulf have robust strategies in place to put the region on the world sports tourism map. From smart cities and sponsorships to centres of excellence and sporting events destinations, discover the ambitious projects and initiatives that will attract millions of visitors and set new benchmarks.

Moderator: Thomas Urquhart, Broadcaster, Arabian Radio Network Speakers: Andy Preece, Director, Buro Happold; Philip Wooller, Senior Director, Middle East & Africa, STR; Philip Dickinson, Vice President of International Markets, Qatar Tourism; Naif AlDossary, Advisor to the Strategic Planning and Investment Deputy, Ministry of Sport; Tricia Warwick, MCIM, Director Asia Pacific Middle East Africa China, VisitBritain 14:00 - 14:45 HUNGRY FOR TRAVEL: WHY UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCES ARE AN ESSENTIAL TOOL IN THE DESTINATION MARKETING PLAYBOOK Great food is more than just sustenance: it connects us to people, places, and flavours; to culture and heritage; to tradition and society. The memories forged while eating a meal with friends or strangers in lands unknown are often more powerful than any other travel encounter involving time-honoured

rituals of hospitality and generosity.

And travellers are hungry for more.

Unique dining experiences are a major consideration for luxury travellers when it comes to choosing a destination. From big-name chefs and award-winning restaurants to authentic local experiences that connect visitors to a destination and create a sense of place, culinary encounters are an increasingly important part of a destination’s appeal. A handful of the Middle East’s leading restaurateurs, hoteliers, and culinary kingpins discuss the growing appetite for unforgettable dining encounters and the unquenchable thirst for unique experiences.

Moderator: Joe Mortimer, Editor-atLarge, Destinations of the World News Speakers: Suhaila Ghubash, Events Director, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment; Lynne Bellinger, Director of Food & Beverage Design & Development, Marriott International EAME; Amanda Elder, Chief Commercial Officer, Member of the Management Board, Kempinski Hotels SA; Michael Ellis, Founder and CEO, Passionomy. tv; Talal Nabil Kensara, Chief of Strategic Management, Diriyah Gate Development Authority 15:00 - 16:00 THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS TRAVEL What will business travel look like in a post-pandemic world and as a severely impacted sector when and how will it recover? This session will look at the megatrends impacting

business travel and the medium term forecasts for the return to travel.

Moderator: Gemma Greenwood, Director, Content Inc. Speakers: Catherine Logan, Regional Vice President - EMEA, GBTA; Shaun Anderson, Head of Sales, dnata Travel Management; Matthew Roberts, Vice President of Sales, Accor IMEA; Sam Dawson, Commercial Director, MENA, YouGov; Ian Moore, Chief Commercial Officer, VistaJet 16:15 - 17:00 BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS TRAVEL PROGRAMME Corporations across the globe are committed to operating more sustainably – but where does business travel fit in this picture? This session will look at how corporations can measure; manage and reduce the environmental impact of their business travel programme.

Moderator: Chris Pouney, Associate, GoldSpring Consulting Speakers: Martin Drew, Senior Vice President, Sales & Cargo, Etihad Aviation Group; Fatima Jaafar Al-Sairafi, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority; David Todd, Head of Operations MEA, InterContinental Hotels Group

THURSDAY 12TH MAY 10:30 - 11:15 THE INDIAN TRAVELLER: WRITING THE GLOBAL RECOVERY SEQUEL Pent-up demand and eagerness to travel are terms that are very often used for Indian outbound travel.

Yes, the Indian traveller is raging to go and wants to travel the world.

This segment is quick to rebound, remains strong, and has the spending capacity. Luxury has become the new mantra for the Indian traveller. Research shows that the frequency of travel has increased and spending is going up. Will the Indian outbound traveller replace the Chinese traveller from the pre-pandemic world? What does the Indian traveller now expect and what can international brands do to welcome them with open arms?

Let’s discuss this further with stalwarts from the Indian outbound sector who can highlight these new trends and redefine the new and evolved Indian traveller.

Moderator: Mr. SanJeet, Founder and CEO, DDP Group and Buzz Travel Marketing Speakers: Deepak Rawat Senior Vice President – International Markets, MakeMyTrip (India) Ltd; Jaal Kalpesh Shah, Group Managing Director, Travel Designer Group; Sandeep Dwivedi, Chief Operating Officer, InterGlobe Technology Quotient Pvt Ltd

11:45 - 12:30 RESPONSIBLE TECHNOLOGY FOR TRAVEL & TOURISM The tourism industry – travel, hospitality and attractions – has developed a bewildering range of tech solutions. For this panel, we have chosen speakers who can look behind the brochures and the sales pitch to share what they have learnt about what works, what doesn’t and why? Globally is about supporting businesses in taking sustainable action.

Globally urges businesses to take a fresh look at technologies many of which can improve bottom lines as well as reducing environmental footprints.

Keith and his colleagues in Globally share the aspirations of the Responsible Tourism movement; together we can change the world for the better.

Moderator: Keith Bradley, Managing Partner, Globally Speakers: Hugo Domingues, General Manager, Enernouva; Russell Impiazzi, Executive Chef, Sofitel Dubai, The Obelisk; Iftikhar Hussain Shah Hamdani Syed, Area General Manager, Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel

rapidly on the rise and an increasing number of countries scrapping Covidrelated restrictions to ease travel, city tourism is steadily returning.

We bring together key city tourism boards from around the globe to discuss their sustainable rebuilding and growth strategies post pandemic, and the growing importance of cultural festivals and sporting events in motivating travellers.

Moderator: Rashi Sen, Editor, TTN Middle East Speakers: Deveekaa Nijhawan, Global Head of International Market, Qatar National Tourism Council; Bahruz Asgarov, Deputy CEO, Azerbaijan Tourism Board; Emily Jenkins, General Manager, Dnata Travel; Tom Kiely, President and CEO, West Hollywood Travel and Tourism Board

14:15 - 15:00 THE RETURN AND RISE OF CITY TOURISM With international airline re-connectivity

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Unwind in one of our impeccable suites, relish your appetite with an array of award winning restaurants or visit The Spa for sheer rejuvenation and relaxation. With distinguished entertainment and retail at our doorstep, this is where your family will feel at home with ours.

For more information visit ADDRESSHOTELS.COM

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Abu Dhabi B

TUESDAY 10TH MAY

14:00 - 18:00 OMAN TOURISM FORUM 2022 - EXPLORING TOURISM PARTNERSHIP IN OMAN Oman received over 3.2 million international tourists in 2019, ranked 18th in Global Foreign Direct Investment in 2021. According to the World Economic Forum, it is one of the safest countries in the Middle East.

Lonely Planet rated Oman among the Top 10 countries to visit in 2022.

Oman Tourism Forum 2022 aims to explore global and regional tourism partnership opportunities with Oman.

The event’s esteemed panel speakers and VIP guests include the world’s largest construction and real estate firm, OMRAN, China’s largest tour operator CTS, ICCA, Alibaba, Rotana, MINOR, Oman Air, Salam Air, Spring Air, China Southern Airline, ASAAS, the MICE industry and many more.

We are expecting about 150 - 200 delegates from Oman, China, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. There are 30 Chinese travel agents confirmed.

The event is organised by the Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, co-organised by International

China Investment Forum and coordinated by China Travel Online.

13:30 - 13:55 - Registration, refreshments and networking 14:00 - 14:05 - Program begins with Master of Ceremony Gemma Greenwood, Director, Content Inc. 14:05 - 14:10 - Introduction by Marcus Lee, Forum Chair, CEO China Travel Online 14:10 - 14:15 - Welcome address by HE Salim Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism of Oman 14:15 - 14:20 - Group photo of organisers and His Excellency 14:20 - 14:30 - Oman Tourism Opportunities: Overview and outlook Speaker: HE Ibrahim bin Said Al Kharusi, Undersecretary, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism 14:30 - 15:15 - Oman Tourism Global Partnership Speakers: Hashil Bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO, OMRAN; Joachim Schmitt, CEO, Orascom Hotel Management; Zhang Jiang Han, GM, China Travel Services and CITS; Shabib Mohamed Al-Mamari, CEO, Visit Oman; Yang Yang, GM, Beijing Spring Travel Services; Marcus Lee, CEO, China Travel Online 15:15 - 15:20 - MOU Signing Ceremony

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Representatives: Shabib Mohamed Al-Mamari, CEO, Visit Oman; Yang Yang, GM, Beijing Spring Travel Services; Marcus Lee, CEO, China Travel Online 15:20 - 16:05 - Improving Connectivity through Aviation and Technology Speakers: Shk. Aimen Ahmed Sultan Al-Hosni , CEO, Oman Airports; Piyush Kakkar, Regional Director, Alibaba Cloud; Captain Mohammad Ahmed, CEO, Salam Air; Mahmoud Fathy, GSA Manager,

China Southern Airline; Mundher Al Shikhani, Senior Manager, Oman Air 16:05 - 16:50 - Hotel Expansion and Partnership Prospects Speakers: Suliman Ahmed Al-Kindi, CEO, ASAAS; Hashil Bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO, OMRAN; Guy Hutchinson, President & CEO, Rotana Hotel Group; Amir Golbarg, Senior Vice President, MINOR Hotel; Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, Times Hotel Group 16:50 - 17:35 - Sector on the Rise: Maximising MICE and Retail’s Potential Speakers: Khalid Al-Zadjali, Director, Oman Convention Bureau; Senthil Gopinath CEO, International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA); Said Salim Al Shanfari,CEO, Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre; Marcus Lee, Chairman, International China Investment Forum (ICIF); Mahmood Mohamed Ali, Chairman, Aljarwani Group; Michelle Chen, CEO, Hunter Tourism International 17:35 - 17:45 - Win flight tickets and hotel packages by sponsors 17:45 - 17:50 - Closing Speech: Ministry of Heritage and Tourism 17:50 - 18:00 - Refreshments and programme end

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MONDAY 9TH MAY 12:30 - 12:55 ARIVAL: THE FUTURE OF TRAVEL IS EXPERIENCES: THE ROLE AND OUTLOOK OF TOURS, ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS IN TOURISM’S RENEWAL The Arival @ ATM program assembles the in-destination industry’s brightest minds and leading voices to explore the essential themes defining the new future for tours, activities, attractions, and experiences in 2022 and beyond.

The Future of Travel is experiences. Our industry — tours, activities, attractions, events, experiences — is not just the third-largest part of travel; it’s why people travel in the first place. Douglas Quinby shares exclusive Arival research on the outlook for tours, activities, and attractions, why it’s the most important part of tourism, and what are the key themes defining its future.

Speaker: Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder & CEO, Arival 12:55 - 13:20 ARIVAL: FIRESIDE CHAT: FERNANDO EIROA, CEO, DUBAI HOLDING ENTERTAINMENT As the recently appointed CEO of one of the largest attraction operators across the MENA region, Ferando Eiroa is setting strategy for multiple theme parks, entertainment experiences and the world’s tallest Ferris wheel, Ain Dubai.

In this wide-ranging interview, we’ll discuss the post-pandemic outlook for travel in the region, key themes defining traveller behaviour and experiences, the role of technology in the guest experience, and how to steer such a significant enterprise through a period of continued global uncertainty.

Moderator: Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder & CEO, Arival Speakers: Fernando Eiroa, CEO, Dubai Holding Entertainment

visitors a different side of Dubai, and help them connect with the local people, culture and cuisine of the UAE. Speaker: Khadija Ahmad Abdul Aziz Ahmad Behzad, Founder and CEO, Meet The Locals 14:20 - 14:45 GOOGLE ‘THINGS TO DO’ (AND WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU) The world’s biggest search engine has taken a big step into the Best Part of Travel with Google Things to Do, a new initiative that presents attraction and experience ticket prices and purchasing options directly in Google search results. This has big implications for attraction operators and ticket resellers. This session by tours and attractions connectivity provider LIVN walks through how Google Things to Do works and how attractions and other experience operators can leverage it to drive more direct bookings.

Speaker: Steve Martinez, Founder & CCO, Livn 14:45 - 15:30 ARIVAL: MUNCH & MINGLE Refreshments and networking with the brightest minds and leading executives from across tours, attractions and experiences.

15:30 - 16:00 ARIVAL: INTERVIEW: DUBAI IS RE-ENVISIONING DISTRIBUTION. CAN IT WORK? Dubai and Dnata share a big vision for tours and attractions distribution: deliver a destination-wide technology platform to connect UAE operators with online travel agencies, global distributors and

travellers directly, and make it easier than ever for visitors and locals to discover and book all of the emirate’s amazing things to do. But change is never easy. In this interview with the head of PrioHub, we’ll explore the vision, the opportunity, the challenges and the questions and concerns from attractions and distributors. We’ll also examine whether this could be a model for the future of connected distribution for tours and experiences beyond Dubai.

Speaker: Alaa Alkhatib, Vice President, Destination Management, Dnata Travel Group 16.00 - 16.25 ARIVAL: ASK ME ANYTHING: ZEINA DAGHER, CEO, EMAAR ENTERTAINMENT Explore the future of visitor attractions, travel trends, and what’s next in distribution, attraction tech and the guest experience with the CEO responsible for the strategy of some of the UAE’s top attractions Moderator: Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder & CEO, Arival Speaker: Zeina Dagher, CEO, Emaar Entertainment 16.25 - 16.50 ARIVAL: SAFARI REIMAGINED: HOW RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL CAN DRIVE PURPOSE & PROFIT It’s the iconic tourist experience of the region — the desert safari. But the rapid rise of global travel demand is compelling our industry to reconceive our experiences for a sustainable future. In this talk, tour operator veteran Adam McEwan shares the Platinum Heritage story: how they built a safari

business that puts sustainability first and how responsible practices can advance profit as well as purpose for every experience provider.

Speaker: Adam McEwan, CEO, Hero Experiences Group 16.50 - 17.25 ARIVAL: DISTRIBUTION, TECH & WHAT’S NEXT FOR TOURS, ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS Digital, distribution and online platforms are ushering in dramatic change, from how travellers plan and book to how operators and distributors connect.

The pandemic has accelerated the need for operators to get ahead on tech, and traveller expectations to find and book on their phones on the spot have never mattered more. This session will explore the changes afoot amid the rise of OTAs, direct online marketing, Google, channel management, and what this means for tour and attraction operators across the region.

Moderator: Bruce Rosard, COO, Arival Speakers: Julia Randow, Director of Sales - APAC, Middle East, and Parts of EMEA, GetYourGuide; Essam Salah, Co-Founder & CEO, Oceanair Travels; Suren Sultania, Co-founder & COO, Headout; Mahender Kumar Tanwar, Product & Revenue Management Director, Experience Hub 17:25 - 17:30 ARIVAL: THAT’S A WRAP! Arival co-founders Douglas Quinby and Bruce Rosard close the day with a synopsis of key themes and takeaways, and a big round of thanks to all of our speakers and partners.

13:20 - 13:50 ARIVAL: THE FUTURE OF EXPERIENCES: THE NEOM VISION Saudi Arabia is placing a big bet on tourism as part of its visionary city of the future. And experiences are at the heart of the Kingdom’s plan for the destination.

In this talk from the travel and tourism veteran who is driving travel strategy and product development at NEOM, we’ll hear what they are doing, but more importantly why, and what that means for the travel industry and the future of experiences.

Speaker: Andrew McEvoy, Managing Director Tourism, NEOM 13:50 - 14:20 ARIVAL: THE OTHER SIDE OF DUBAI: MEET THE LOCALS The story of Dubai’s rise as a global hub of commerce and tourism is extraordinary, but there is much more than cosmopolitan modernity. This Emirati entrepreneur wants to show

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TUESDAY 10TH MAY 10:30 - 11:30 ON THE ROAD TO SEAMLESS TRAVEL What progress is the industry making in adopting new technologies like biometrics, data analytics, mobile and Artificial Intelligence to make the travel experience more frictionless, easier and ultimately more enjoyable for the customer? In this session experts from the travel technology sector will share their vision for a future that’s more digitised, more multi-modal, and more joined-up, bringing traditional transport suppliers and last-mile journey options together for a truly integrated door-to-door experience.

Moderator: Lee Hayhurst, Executive Editor, Travolution Speakers: Alex Villeyra, Chief Operating Officer, Mabrian Technologies; Francois Blanc, Amadeus Traveler ID Managing Director, Amadeus; Mike Ferguson, Commercial Director, Skyscanner 11:45 - 12:30 TECHNOLOGIES TO SHAPE AND NAVIGATE THE NEW TRAVEL ERA Changes in the travel and tourism industry keep accelerating. Not only the impact of COVID-19, but also

technology advancements, changing business realities, and shifts in consumer trends are transforming the travel landscape. Find out from our experts how technology helps rebuild travel with tangible examples of what is already in place and what is coming.

Moderator: Delphine Herrmann, Head of Amadeus Regional Marketing, Western Europe, Middle East and Africa Speakers: Jamel Chandoul, Senior Vice President, Amadeus Travel Sellers Middle East & Africa; Christophe Roux, Senior Vice President Commercial, Amadeus Airline Business, Middle East, Africa, and Turkey; Cem Cetinturk, Regional Vice President Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, Amadeus Hospitality; Brent Roberts, Director of Sales, Amadeus Hospitality and DMOs 13:00 - 13:45 SHARING SUCCESS: A GUIDE FOR ENTREPRENEURS LOOKING TO BUILD SUCCESSFUL START-UPS This session will feature advice and information for aspiring innovators, as well as details of the ATM DraperAladdin Start-up Competition which will take place during ATM 2022. Industry

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experts will share their extensive start-up experience, offering tips on the most effective fundraising methods, the biggest challenges faced by new ventures, and the best channels to reach and forge partnerships with investors.

Investors will also be on hand to explain the key elements they look for before deciding to back a new venture.

Moderator: Lee Cotterell Clark, Emcee, Draper Aladdin Speakers: Alaa Ismail Al Haija, Founder & CEO, Aladdinb2b, SalesMENA and Draper-Aladdin Startup Competition; Hadi Saeed AlShakhori, Business Incubation Manager; Wa’ed Walid Tarabih, Former Digital Transformation Advisor, UAE’s Prime Minister’s Office; Hamdi Sultan, CEO, Solitaire IGT; Matthew Gardiner, Founder, A1 AI 13:50 - 17:30 THE ATM DRAPER-ALADDIN START-UP COMPETITION The ATM Draper-Aladdin Start-up Competition is an exciting, new forum designed to showcase the very latest technology innovations from some of the brightest minds in

the travel and hospitality industry.

Hear from the 15 start-ups themselves, pitching their business plan to attract investment with ideas across three travel & tourism sectors from Travel and Transportation; Hospitality Tech and Experiences and Attractions.

Each pitch will last just five minutes followed by a fiveminute Q&A with the judges.

Once all the pitches are complete, this will be followed by an awards ceremony to announce the top three winners. The overall winner will receive a minimum of $30,000 up to a maximum of $500,000 investment, a DASC Certificate and the chance to appear on Tim Draper’s TV show, Meet the Drapers, where they compete for another $500,000 while gaining access to a crowdfunding network of 12 million viewers. A further two runners up will receive the DASC Certificate only.

13.50 – 15.00: Start-ups make their pitches 15.00 – 15.30: Break 15.30 – 16.50: Start-ups make their pitches 17.05 – 17.30: Winners presentations and awards

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WEDNESDAY 11TH MAY 10:30 - 11:15 TACTICAL REENGAGEMENT IN THE MIDDLE EAST The 2022 edition of the ATM Middle East will witness increased participation and business opportunities after two years. The session will highlight how the Middle East is recovering and how it is investing more and more in MICE vertical. The speakers will outline the importance of the meetings industry, the exponential growth expected in the region by 2030, and how it’s focusing on women’s capacity building.

Moderator: Anju Vijay Anthony Gomes, Regional Director, ICCA Speakers: Karina Soraya Lance, Deputy Director, Department of Economy and Tourism; Lujaina Al Maskari, Business Events Executive, Oman Convention Bureau, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism; Kavitha Prabhu, Director - Association Management and Consultancy, MCI Middle East; Jasmine Lew, Section Head Conventions & Exhibitions, Department of Culture & Tourism, Abu Dhabi 11:45 - 12:30 MAPPING TRAVEL’S NEW NORMAL In this session, Sabre will be revealing its latest research into the travel industry recovery landscape following extensive global research with airlines and travel agencies. Sabre’s vice president for the Middle East Abdul-Razzaq Iyer will present the findings of the study and will then invite industry experts to a 30-minute panel discussion to talk about the findings and what they mean for the travel industry landscape. How has COVID-19 changed the way people travel? How can the industry capture the tailwinds of recovery? And what are the opportunities for airlines and agencies to create value as we move towards an endemic world? To answer these questions and more, join Sabre as it maps travel’s new normal.

Moderator: Abdul-Razzaq Iyer, Vice President, Sabre Travel Network Middle East Speaker: Frank Trampert, SVP & Global MD – Commercial, Sabre Hospitality Solutions

marketplace, there is an imperative to recapture revenue and elevate the guest experience to meet new consumer demands. Achieving such goals requires a greater embrace of technology to rapidly offer high-demand products and services, improve operations, and make work simpler and more rewarding for short-handed staff. Join this session to learn about the four major trends shaping hospitality - and discover how technology can actually enhance the human touch to deliver exceptional service.

Moderator: Alex Alt, SVP and General Manager, Oracle Hospitality Speakers: Judith Cartwright, Founder & Managing Director, Black Coral Consulting; Christopher Hartley, CEO, Global Hotel Alliance; Willem Both, EVP of IT, Kerzner International FZE; Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts 14:15 - 15:00 ENTER THE METAVERSE: TECHNOLOGIES AS A TOOL FOR ADVANCING TRAVEL SERVICES Technology has always been a driving force in setting how businesses and industries function. The travel and tourism industry is the first field that has embraced technological advancement, from the emergence of WEB 2.0 back in its days, questions and worries have risen on whether travel agencies

are losing their presence in the world.

Now, with WEB 3.0, and technologies such as the blockchain, the metaverse, and artificial intelligence taking the spotlight of the world of tomorrow, we are here to utilise these technologies not as a replacement for agencies and service providers, but as a tool to further advance their role and services within the industry. This session is an introduction to the basics of metaverse, blockchain, and artificial intelligence, followed by a brand new interactive virtual tour of travel destinations, hotels, and attractions, demonstrating the capabilities of these technologies combined in reshaping the travel industry and preparing it to grasp the future.

Speakers: Omarei Abumadi, CEO, TBS/V Booking 15.30 - 16.00 HOSPITALITY 4.0: NOW MORE THAN EVER The year looks fairly promising for APAC-MEA region with borders opening up and restrictions being eased while travel patterns have become difficult to predict now more than ever. How will technology help hoteliers the challenges while trying to engage, understand and convert their guests?

Speakes: Kamesh Shukla, Executive Vice President Commercial APAC & MEA, RateGain

16.15 - 17.00 HOW TO WORK WITH INFLUENCERS POST-COVID The pandemic changed influencer marketing for travel dramatically. Many travel influencers lost their incomes and changed careers. Those that remain have new concerns about promoting brands and destinations. We conducted a survey of influencers and industry stakeholders to map the new landscape. This presentation will include key takeaways from our research and recommendations for how to work most effectively with influencers post-COIVD. Moderator: Matt Gibson, CEO, UpThink Ltd. Speakers: Paul Johnson, Editor, A Luxury Travel Blog; Amanda PonzioMouttaki, Writer, MarocMama; Maria Khoriaty, Influencer Marketing Coordinator, Hashtag Media FZ LLC; Samantha Wood, Publisher, Event Organiser & Consultant, FooDiva 17:00 – 18:00 INFLUENCER NETWORKING EVENT Travel influencers can meet with the marketing teams from travel and tourism suppliers across the wide spectrum of exhibitors at ATM to explore ways to work together in the future.

13:00 - 13:45 CATALYSTS FOR CHANGE: FOUR TECH TRENDS SHAPING HOSPITALITY Venturing into a post-pandemic

THURSDAY 12TH MAY 10.30 - 11.15 HOW IS DATA CHANGING AIRLINE RETAILING? Travel tech start-up Atlas is redefining what it means to be data-led. Moderated by industry authority Brian Staunton, serial travel entrepreneur Mary Li will share her insights on how to build a data-led organisation and why harnessing every parameter of travel data is the future of travel technology.

They’ll be joined by a panel of experts providing agency, airline and technology

perspectives to help you better understand the practicalities of data infrastructure and customised analysis, and the skills and experience we can take from other industries and apply to travel.

We’ll get under the hood of what it means for you and your customers to be dataled, the alignment of in-house technical and commercial capabilities, and what skills next generation executives will need to hone to remain relevant and compete.

Moderator:Brian Staunton, Chief Commercial Officer, Atlas

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Speakers: Ashish Kumar, Director Commercial, Flights Booking, Wego Middle East; Mary Li, CEO, The Atlas Pte. Ltd. 11:45 - 12:30 EMBEDDED INSURANCE AND THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE: HOW CONVENIENCE IS CHANGING THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY Speakers: Peter Smith, VP, Strategic Partnerships – Travel, Cover Genius; Sriram Jayanthi, Product Manager,

Merchandising, Omio Travel GmbH 13:00 - 13:45 PAYMENT SOLUTIONS FOR WORLDCLASS GUEST EXPERIENCES Attend this session to learn more about how HyperPay is helping leading hospitality brands to automate internal daily operations and deliver highquality services to guests with the power of Online Payment Solutions.

Speaker: Aziz Khan, Director of Payment Solution, HyperPay

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Feature - The Future of Travel and Tourism

The future in focus

Explore the new trends and global movements shaping the future of international travel and tourism at Arabian Travel Market In some parts of the world, international travellers are navigating the labyrinth of health regulations and border restrictions as they prepare to board their next flight. For many others, their upcoming trips are set to proceed as seamlessly as possible – for the first time in two years – with many countries around the world relaxing testing requirements and replacing the patchwork of restrictions with seamless digital solutions.

Industry experts believe that things are moving in the right direction, with these positive changes ushering in better days for the sector. Also signalling that the international travel and tourism industry is well on its way to recovery, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) revealed in its latest report that the sector’s contribution to the global economy could reach US$8.6 trillion this year, just 6.4 percent behind pre-pandemic levels.

As per the global tourism body, if the vaccine and booster roll-outs

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continue at pace this year and restrictions on international travel are further eased around the world, the sector could create 58 million jobs in 2022, to reach more than 330 million, just one percent below pre-pandemic levels and 21.5 percent above 2020.

In 2019, before the pandemic stopped travel in its tracks, the sector contributed nearly US$9.2 trillion to the global economy, generating 10.4 percent of the global GDP. However, in 2020, the crisis almost brought the sector to a complete standstill, causing a massive 49.1 percent drop, representing a severe loss of nearly US$4.5 trillion.

Now, a little over two years later, there’s a paradigm shift in making travel as seamless, secure and safe as possible, with new trends and global movements steering the sector forward.

“The outlook for international travel is positive,” said Scott Livermore, Chief Economist, Oxford Economics.

“While we do not expect an immediate complete rebound, significant gains are expected in 2022 and 2023 as pent-up demand is realised.

“Once business travel recovery is fully underway, and once China and some other more cautious markets ease restrictions, we can expect to see travel volumes regain 2019 levels.

This is currently expected worldwide in 2025 and by 2024 in the Middle East.

The expected timeline for recovery has been deferred by the war in Ukraine but it has not been derailed.”

Although recovery is certain, experts agree that the way in which travellers will experience the world will not be the same, with new trends redefining the sector as we know it. Discussing the current landscape of the industry, Livermore stated: “Travel remains more skewed towards domestic and short-haul destinations as these are typically more familiar and perceived

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to be safer as well as involving lower costs. In the short term, travellers will continue to favour short-haul travel and some quieter, more rural destinations, but these trends will fade over time as recovery becomes more entrenched.

“We still anticipate consumerled economic growth in the coming months and years as enforced savings accumulated during the pandemic are spent, which will support pent-up travel demand. However, rising commodity prices will add to inflationary pressures and will erode some savings and income growth to soften this impact.

“Leisure travel will lead recovery and continue to account for a larger share of activity in the coming years than before the pandemic.”

So what can travel industry businesses do to leverage these new trends and recover faster?

Livermore answers: “Businesses should focus on short-haul source markets and those which have already eased travel restrictions for quick gains and to restore volumes.

“Flexibility in bookings and favourable cancellation policies should remain a key part of business plans owing to continued volatility in the outlook due to renewed COVID-19 outbreaks and the risk of restrictions. The war in Ukraine further adds to uncertainty and may affect traveller sentiment.”

He added: “Destinations and businesses need to pay greater attention to destination and visitor management rather than just marketing. Destination stewardship is important to balance the needs of visitors and residents who

Scott Livermore

have had a break from the positive and negative elements brought about by tourism, for example, overcrowding in some major destinations.”

Since the initial impact of COVID19 on travel was felt, it has always been clear that corporate travel would face a slower return to normalcy. But now, the sector, which took the biggest hit during the pandemic, is showing green shoots again. Although much remains to be seen, the successful vaccine roll-out has brought the industry some relief.

Livermore said: “Business travel will return, but a proportion of meetings will remain online and travel budgets will be squeezed. There are real benefits to in-person meetings, which are recognised by businesses, and 2019 levels will be regained over time, but in the near term,

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we expect to see fewer attendees at meetings per organisation and delegates.

“Large business events will return – and there have been some high-profile examples of successful events that have been held in the post-COVID-19 environment – but there will remain some caution in organising these in many destinations, given the required lead time and lingering uncertainty,” he added.

Industry experts believe that one silver lining to the pandemic is travellers’ heightened awareness of the environment and a renewed commitment to making choices that are better for the planet “We expect to see a greater focus on sustainable and authentic experiences.

These were emerging trends prior to the pandemic that are now coming to the fore,” explained Livermore. “Travellers are likely to take fewer leisure trips involving a flight per year, but of longer duration, in order to minimise carbon footprint.

They are eager to once again experience different places and cultures and will increasingly seek authentic destinations.

“Travellers are also increasingly demanding sustainable travel products and experiences. Businesses and destinations with sustainable policies and practices are seeing the fastest gains and these things are essential to thrive. In this way, the pandemic has accelerated pre-existing trends, along with the desire for more authentic experiences,” concluded Livermore.

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Elevating travel

One of the travel sector’s largest segments – the in-destination industry – takes centre stage at ATM today with Arival, which will highlight the role of tours, activities, attractions and experiences in shaping the way we travel Like most aspects of travel, the in-destination industry is continually evolving. Before the pandemic, the changing nature of traveller behaviour and the influx of new technologies were the top factors shaping the segment.

And in the post-COVID-19 era, new variants, updates in health regulations and border restrictions have further contributed to the sector’s dynamic nature. As such, change has become a constant in the in-destination industry.

Made up of tour operators and providers of activities, attractions, events and experiences, the in-destination industry is not just the third-largest segment of the global travel and tourism sector, it is why people travel in the first place. That is why everyone, from online travel agencies to hotels and destination

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marketers, is determined to better understand this ever-evolving market.

Gaining in-destination insights is hugely valuable, especially when it comes to discovering the future trends that will shape the face of the market, now, more than ever, as travel industry businesses enter a new era post-COVID-19.

Throwing the spotlight on the in-destination industry, ATM 2022 hosts Arival today. The programme brings together the industry’s brightest minds and leading voices to explore the essential themes defining the future for tours, activities, attractions and experiences in 2022 and beyond.

MEETING EXPECTATIONS Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder & CEO, Arival, said: “Tours, activities and

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attractions have been one of the hardesthit sectors from the pandemic, but we are also seeing incredible pent-up demand.

Travellers who are coming back into the market are showing dramatically increased intent to experience and to spend on those experiences.

“Our research shows that consumer spend intent on tours is double that of 2019 levels, while spend intent on attraction tickets is up by 31 percent.

“This indicates that travellers want the most out of their trips in 2022. They no longer want to just see and hear.

It’s not enough just to go to the top of the tallest building or sit on a tour bus and look and listen. Visitors want to touch, taste, smell and experience.”

Quinby added: “Travellers want to connect with local people, places, food and culture on their trips. And they want to be co-creators of the experience.”

For travellers to have active – not passive – visitor experiences, Quinby stated that it is up to providers to find innovative ways to meet this growing demand. And now, more than ever, it is important for tour and attraction providers to deliver extraordinary experiences in order to enable a comeback for the sector.

NAVIGATING CHALLENGES Whether it is the way a destination is marketed or a form of technology that is simply a must-have, there are some major challenges that will change the face of the in-destination travel industry.

Discussing this dynamic landscape, Quinby stated: “The key shifts in guest expectations perhaps pose the biggest challenges, and the competition is especially fierce in the UAE, with the dramatic growth of new top-tier attractions and experiences over the past few years.

“In addition, as we shift away from the pandemic, our sector, along with the broader global economy, is facing challenges in hiring, retention and supply chain management, as well as geopolitical uncertainty.

We will explore these topics in depth at Arival @ ATM Dubai.”

TECHNOLOGY FOCUS Another area of the in-destination industry that has transformed significantly in recent years is the influx of technology in the sector. Whereas tourists would turn solely to local operators and often pay on arrival in the past, now, thanks to technological advancements, there is a wealth of options with which to book a range of experiences beforehand.

Quinby explained: “The pandemic has accelerated technology adoption across tours and attractions. Historically, the in-destination industry has lagged other tourism sectors in online booking and creating a great digital guest experience.

“Due to local restrictions on capacity management during the pandemic as well as dramatically accelerated consumer adoption of online shopping, ordering and purchasing, the pandemic has driven eight to 10 years of online growth in just 18 to 24 months. This

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Arival, taking place at ATM today, brings together the industry’s brightest minds and leading voices to explore the themes defining the future of the in-destination industry

means that online and advance booking is now preferred among travellers. And this presents an incredible opportunity for experience providers to offer upsells, add-on purchases and premium options to enhance the overall experience and generate additional revenue.”

Aligning with this shift, Arival @ ATM will focus on five key areas of technology this year, the first one being technology and the guest experience, which delves into how new mobile and on-site technologies are improving the guest experience, so as to reduce wait times in lines, notify guests of specific options or activities and provide insights back to operators to improve their offering.

Connectivity is another major focus. Quinby explained: “As more of the travel industry adds experiences to their offering, distribution is growing rapidly and becoming more complex.

Direct connectivity between tour operators and attraction systems with reseller platforms will be critical to sustaining efficient growth.”

Dynamic pricing will also be under the spotlight. “While widely adopted for some years in transportation and accommodation, it is still early in tours and attractions, but it is coming. Attractions that smartly leverage dynamic pricing can achieve significant gains in yield in visitors.”

During the pandemic, capacity management became a requirement to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus. However, going forward, capacity management techniques, such as timed entry, dynamic inventory control and guest flow management can be deployed to create a better guest experience. And Arival will explore how.

Finally, Google’s new search product – Google Things to Do – will also be a focus as this feature could have a significant impact on how travellers find and book things to do on their trips. “We have a session devoted to helping operators understand the new product and what it means for our industry,” Quinby concluded.

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Feature - ATM Travel Tech

A competitive edge

ATM Travel Tech explores the next generation of industry innovations and cutting-edge technology for travel and hospitality businesses

In the age of “everything contactless”, there are hardly any interactions that can occur seamlessly without the use of technology. Whether it’s ordering groceries or paying bills, there are multiple digital touchpoints that facilitate an individual’s everyday interactions with businesses.

As human reliance on technology grows rapidly, consumers expect seamless connectivity from every single business they deal with, setting the standards high for every brand, whether they are fundamentally a tech company or not. And the travel and tourism industry isn’t exempt.

From shortlisting destinations and booking flights and hotels to

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making reservations while on a holiday, the entire travel experience – from the planning stage until completion and reviewing after return – is reliant on the use of technology.

Walter Knight, Director of Hospitality, Farnek Services LLC, said: “Travellers today are looking for hassle-free experiences that make use of technology as a means to accommodate their needs.

Many travellers have become far more mindful since the pandemic and often look to avoid close or direct contact with others. The younger generation prefers to work through devices, such as apps to communicate, rather than call and speak directly to others. The demands of the new traveller are higher

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ATM Travel Tech - Feature

as we live in a world where everything is accessible now. The demand for instant gratification is always challenging, however, this is also forcing the industry to become more creative and responsive in the way we run our businesses.

“We have to use technology to our advantage to increase the efficiency of our services and, at the same time, keep our costs in check. The new wave of tech-savvy customers is forcing the industry to evolve.”

In the last decade, a growing number of brands took note of the importance of integrating technology into their operations, substituting traditional methods with modern ones. And then, the pandemic also accelerated the need for tourism businesses to rely more on technical innovations to stay ahead of the curve and ensure seamless experiences for their customers.

“The added complexities associated with travelling during the pandemic underlined the need to provide travellers with reliable, up-to-date information and advice on their digital devices as well as to react in real time to disruptions and ever-changing rules and regulations,” said Lee Hayhurst, who serves as Executive Editor of Travolution and will be moderating the session On The Road To Seamless Travel at ATM 2022.

He added: “The travel industry was also forced to switch to remote working while continuing to service

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Technology played a crucial role in helping businesses to survive the pandemic and still be here to enjoy the rebound clients and, sadly, reduce headcount to bring operating costs down to a minimum, which meant self-service functionalities for customers became an absolute necessity to limit demands on businesses’ resources. So technology played a crucial role in helping businesses to survive the worst of the pandemic and to still be here to enjoy the rebound.”

Now, as we enter a post-pandemic era, businesses are continuing to leverage industry innovations in order to ease operations in the recovery phase.

Hayhurst explained: “There’s a lot of innovation going on at the travel coalface, with airports like Dubai International and Jordan’s Queen Alia International implementing contactless biometric facial recognition check-in and customs clearing technologies.

“Outside of aviation, rail operator Eurostar and cruise lines Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean are introducing technology to make the customer experience more enjoyable and smoother, while hotels brands are

adopting keyless room entry and digital concierge systems. But probably the most promising developments are being made by firms looking to join up the entire travel journey as the sector moves towards a multimodal future using open API and cloud-based technology architecture,” added Hayhurst.

“Sector specialists like Omio and Kiwi.com and industry incumbents like Booking.com, Tripadvisor and Trip.com are vying with the likes of non-travel tech giants like Google to become a traveller’s in-pocket concierge service of choice.

“Many travel businesses are taking the opportunity of the pandemic to move their technology to the cloud in order to take advantage of more agile, software-as-a-service systems. This promises operational efficiencies for the business and also brings computing closer to the end customer.

“Aligned with modern data capture and storage, machine learning and artificial intelligence to analyse and make sense of all the information that

it is now possible to capture, firms are starting to understand customers’ needs better and to anticipate demand more accurately so that the experience for the traveller becomes more relevant and integrated with every individual aspect of their trip,” concluded Hayhurst.

ON THE AGENDA AT ATM TRAVEL TECH With many more aspects of travel technology to explore, the revamped and rebranded ATM Travel Tech event – previously known as Travel Forward – is taking place alongside ATM 2022 this year with a host of sessions on the Travel Tech stage. Across four days of insightful seminars, debates and presentations, attendees will be able to discover the innovations shaping the travel and hospitality industry today.

Decision makers from across the globe, innovative technology providers and senior executives in the industry will be in attendance, discussing the latest technologies and trends that will shape the future of travel.

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Destinations

Dubai

Dubai Economy and Tourism / ME2510, ME3110, ME3150

As one of the world’s most visited destinations, Dubai is flexing its muscle. Beyond the record-breaking attractions, such as the world’s tallest tower and largest mall, it boasts a stunning coastline and desert terrain in addition to an exciting cultural calendar, including the region’s largest literature festival and a year-round programme at the magnificent Dubai Opera.

Just before the pandemic hit, Dubai saw a record number of visitors in 2019, up from 14.3 million in 2018 to 15 million. While these figures saw a decline as a result of COVID-19, recovery was fast-paced as tourism chiefs reopened the skies in July 2020.

The emirate hosted 7.28 million overnight visitors in 2021, according to Dubai Media Office. In spite of the ongoing crisis, Dubai implemented a comprehensive protocol for foreign travellers, including testing on arrival at Dubai International Airport. India remained the top source market, followed by Saudi Arabia, Russia and the United Kingdom.

With Expo 2020 Dubai opening in the last quarter of the year, visitor numbers increased again as people arrived from every corner of the globe

Burj Khalifa

for the world’s greatest show. The event drew over 24 million visits during its six months. As a result of hosting the world fair, the city’s public transport network has seen the addition of new routes along with further development across roads and other infrastructure.

New hotels continue to launch with more high-end properties opening throughout the city and close to the Expo site. Luxury remains king with the largest number of rooms found in the city’s five-star hotels, but with rising numbers

of three and four-star properties, recent years have shown a massive diversification in the emirate’s tourism strategy and, in turn, its visitor numbers.

Most recently, Dubai has raised the curtain on a host of new attractions, including the Museum of the Future and Ain Dubai – the world’s largest observation wheel. Both can be equally enjoyed in winter and the scorching summer as Dubai’s tourism chiefs are making sure the weather is no obstacle to drawing the crowds all year round.

Museum of the Future

With Expo 2020 Dubai, visitor numbers increased and the event drew over 24 million visits over the course of six months

Abu Dhabi

Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi / ME2350, ME2310

Qasr Al Watan

The UAE capital has positioned itself as a business and leisure destination. After a robust vaccination strategy and strict travel protocols, Abu Dhabi is now coming out of the pandemic in a buoyant position.

In spite of the global crisis, Abu Dhabi International Airport reported 5.26 million visitors in 2021, a small 5.5 percent drop from 2020. The emirate, which was only open to vaccinated travellers and implemented strict quarantine and testing protocols, has reopened slowly as it managed the ongoing travel challenges.

Home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels for business and leisure, the UAE capital continues to be one of the region’s most opulent destinations. Over the last decade, Abu Dhabi has worked hard to place itself well and truly on the world map. From developing state-of-the-art cultural venues to hosting major sporting events, the emirate has become a leading destination for travellers of all kinds.

Broadening its cultural offerings, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum will soon join the likes of Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan and Qasr Al Hosn, which are currently must-see sights in the UAE capital.

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Louvre Abu Dhabi

Over the last decade, Abu Dhabi has worked hard to place itself well and truly on the world map Meanwhile, on Yas Island, an adventure offering awaits visitors of all age groups, with the island’s theme parks, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Clymb Abu Dhabi, drawing visitors

during every season. There is plenty for outdoor lovers, too, in the emirate, with the lush Jubail Mangrove Park, in addition to pristine, sandy beaches and the fiery dunes of the Empty Quarter in the remote southwest.

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Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority / ME3310

The UAE’s northernmost emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, offers everything from stunning sandy beaches to dramatic mountainside scenery. Boasting the country’s highest mountain, Jebel Jais, the emirate is now firmly positioned as the adventure capital of the Middle East.

Famed for activities such as hiking and mountain climbing, it gained the world’s attention through its 2.8-kilometre zip line, Jebel Jais Flight, which is also the world’s longest and is suspended 1,680 metres above sea level. Also available at the site is a host of adventure activities, from the Jais Sky Maze and Jais Sky Tour, ideal for those who don’t mind heights.

For the less adrenaline-hardy, there are other options in the emirate, including the Via Ferrata, which is a series of smaller zip lines over a shorter distance, involving a gentle scrambling route. There is also mountain biking, horse and camel riding as well as a range of water sports. The latest fun-packed activity spot in the emirate is the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp, where visitors of all ages can learn everything from mountain survival skills to abseiling.

The emirate’s northernmost position and mountainous climate, which can be as much as 10-degrees cooler than

Offering everything from stunning sandy beaches to dramatic mountainside scenery, Ras Al Khaimah is now firmly positioned as the adventure capital of the Middle East the neighbouring emirates, means that even the summer months remain popular for the quaint and enchanting town. A range of competitive hospitality packages and all-inclusive offerings have helped the emirate grow immensely, attracting tourists from all over.

Pre-pandemic, the lead markets were Poland, Russia, India, Kazakhstan and the Czech Republic. The emirate reported record numbers of international and domestic visitors for the first half of 2021 with a 40 percent rise on 2020 figures for the same period.

With its wide appeal, it is arguably one of the fastest-growing destinations in the region and looks to continue in the same vein in the years to come, with new properties showing global brands’ faith in the destination.

Wadi Ghalilah

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Tourism Authority / ME4410, ME4440

One of the biggest stories of 2019 was Saudi Arabia opening its doors to tourism. Since then, interest in this fascinating country has only skyrocketed and its momentum remains unaffected by the pandemic.

A land of heritage, culture and natural wonder, there is much to discover across the vast landscape of the kingdom, beyond the inland city of Riyadh and the coastal city of Jeddah.

From its Red Sea coast to its majestic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this has long been a place of intrigue.

Among some of the destinations being highlighted is Al Ahsa in the east of Saudi Arabia. This lush green

landscape is a world away from the sand dunes and arid desert plains of the Empty Quarter. Nestled between Riyadh and Dammam, and stretching into the Rub’ Al Khali, Al Ahsa is home to one of the world’s largest natural oases and is now a UNESCO-listed city.

To the country’s north-west, the town of AlUla beckons with its rugged beauty and historic sites, thanks to which, it is being dubbed as the “second Petra”. The town is now linked to regional airports, including Dubai, with direct flights since late 2021.

Taking shape north-west of Riyadh is a new cultural destination that encompasses the UNESCO World

AlUla

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A land of heritage, culture and natural wonder, there is plenty to discover across the kingdom Heritage Site of At-Turaif, which is known as the birthplace of the kingdom.

Upon completion, the development will feature world-class entertainment, retail and hospitality options with a diverse collection of museums and cultural institutes at its heart.

And the highly anticipated giga projects, including the Red Sea destination, Amaala and NEOM, are undoubtedly jewels in the crown for this exciting new destination.

The online visa system – available to nationals from 49 countries – made travel to this ancient nation easier than ever before. These revolutionary changes helped open up the warm hospitality of the Saudi people and its centuries-old history to the world.

As the travel industry bounces back, religious tourism is expected to remain the bedrock of the sector over the next decade, with a goal of attracting 30 million pilgrims to the kingdom by 2030, an increase of 11 million from

Makkah

the 19 million Hajj and Umrah pilgrims who visited the country in 2017.

In alignment with Vision 2030, the country has set aside US$64 billion to invest in culture, leisure and entertainment projects over the next decade, which will significantly add to the attractiveness of the kingdom as a tourist destination.

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Destinations

Jamaica

Jamaica Tourist Board / AM1360

This gorgeous island haven is not only a natural paradise but is full of fun, vibrancy and colour. Nobody leaves Jamaica without a smile on their face, a reflection of the mood of this year-round sunshine destination.

Visitors can choose to hike daredevil waterfalls, drive or ride along scenic hillside corridors, check in with the gentle native crocodiles on a river safari or take a stroll through historic towns rich with culture on this island of plenty.

Over in Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River Falls is one of the country’s magnificent wonders, along with Turtle River Falls

and Gardens, offering 14 cascading waterfalls for tourists to enjoy. Adventure seekers can hop on two wheels for a bike tour through the lush and bountiful terrain of the Blue Mountains, all the way to the 7,000-foot peak of the mountain.

Trench Town Culture Yard allows visitors to pay homage to the home of reggae music, the place Bob Marley spent much of his earlier years of life but where his legacy still lives. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a number of courses, including the oldest course in the western hemisphere, the Manchester Club which sits 2,000 feet above sea level atop the cool hills

Jamaica

in the centre of the island. The Tryall Golf Club in Montego Bay offers views of awe-inspiring beachside beauty.

For more breathtaking beaches, Long Bay Beach Park is a must as it showcases the country’s coastline, or visitors can explore underwater life with spectacular scuba diving experiences. Zip lining and river tubing tours as well as the Kool Runnings Water Park give thrill seekers ample opportunity to play, in addition to activities including paintballing in the jungle, go-kart racing and river rafting.

Jamaica’s tourism authority predicts massive growth for the Caribbean nation

Blue Mountains

Visitors can choose to hike daredevil waterfalls, drive or ride along scenic hillside corridors over the coming two years, expected to surpass pre-pandemic figures by the end of 2024. Total visitor arrivals are estimated to reach 4.5 million, with gross foreign exchange earnings of US$4.7 billion. Visitor arrivals were around three million by the end of 2022, with cruise passengers accounting for 1.1 million and stopover arrivals, 2.1 million.

Jordan

Jordan Tourism Board / ME1460

With abundant natural wonders, such as the dramatic lunar-like landscape of Wadi Rum, historic treasures in the ancient city of Petra (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) and the Dead Sea, the Kingdom of Jordan lures an increasing number of foreign visitors year after year.

Thanks to its fascinating tourism offerings and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the country has also become a favourite among film-makers. Wadi Rum, a protected desert wilderness, has featured in a host of movies, from Lawrence of Arabia, shot in 1962, to 2016’s Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

Tourism in Jordan received another boost when Britain’s Prince William visited the country in July 2018.

An oasis of calm in the Middle East, Jordan was enjoying a boom in tourism numbers before the pandemic. While visitor numbers have decreased owing to the crisis, the country hopes to build on its success from 2018, when it witnessed one of its best years yet for tourism. Petra saw its second-largest number of visitors during the year since it was established as an official tourism destination, while Jerash, home to some of the best Roman ruins outside Italy, saw a considerable increase in visitor numbers.

With abundant natural wonders, the Kingdom of Jordan lures an increasing number of foreign visitors year after year

Petra

Jordan has, without question, set its sights firmly on the future.

To meet this anticipated boom, the country is working hard to train more tour guides to tailor the offering to visitors, especially focusing on those speaking Chinese dialects and other Far Eastern languages, with an increase in visitors expected from the region.

Keeping up with its tradition of welcoming visitors since the days when camel caravans plied the legendary King’s Highway, transporting frankincense in exchange for spices, Jordan has plenty to offer travellers today, whether it’s the country’s natural beauty, with activities such as hiking and camping, stargazing or nature spotting, there are so many reasons to visit.

A host of new hotels in Amman also signal a new era, with boutique properties now giving more options to travellers across a range of budgets.

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Italy

Italian National Tourist Board / EU1530

As a popular tourist destination, Italy was one of the severely hit nations in the wake of the pandemic, but the country has already bounced back and is welcoming a rising number of visitors once again, thanks to its spectacular offering. The country boasts everything from world-class art and culture to historical treasures, stunning landscapes and enviable gastronomy.

Mount Etna and the Piazza Dei Miracoli, which houses a breathtaking cathedral and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.

For visitors seeking a romantic getaway, Italy is incomparable, thanks to the architecture and ambience of cities like Rome, Florence and Venice, which

offer classic experiences, including visits to the capital’s Trevi Fountain and gondola rides along the Venetian canals.

History buffs, meanwhile, can learn all about the glory of ancient Rome.

The capital has a rich, storied past that survives today in monuments such as

Manarola

the Colosseum. Art lovers can nourish their passion in Florence. The city offers both the Galleria Degli Uffizi, which opened in 1581 and boasts works by the likes of Leonardo da Vinci and Sandro Botticelli, and the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s David.

Venice

Italy boasts everything from art and culture to historical treasures, stunning landscapes and enviable gastronomy Things are already looking up.

Over the summer months of 2020 and 2021, the tourism scenario in the country was already beginning to improve. In July 2021, arrivals in tourist accommodations rose to 13.8 million, denoting an increase over 2020 but remaining below pre-pandemic levels.

With 51 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than any other country, iconic areas include Pompei, Verona, Venice,

Indonesia

The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy / AS2452

Indonesia brings together nature, culture, heritage, island escapes and adventure travel, giving visitors many smaller destinations to explore within a single destination.

Indonesia is a huge nation composed of hundreds of cultures derived from local regions, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world. In 2021, there were about 1.56 million international visitor arrivals in Indonesia, the number down from around 16 million in 2019, due to the COVID-19 travel restrictions.

While the island of Bali is the nation’s most popular and most visited destination, there is so much more to see and do across the country and its roughly 17,000 islands. From the volcanic island of Lombok, full of hidden treasures and divine beaches, to one of its cultural capitals, Yogyakarta, known as the cradle of civilisation on Java, there is much beyond the Balinese island.

Visitors can enjoy everything from thrilling caving adventures to exotic diving escapades, challenging

Java Island

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Visitors can enjoy caving adventures, diving escapades, jungle treks, water sports and hiking

Mount Agung

volcano climbs, intriguing jungle treks, water sports, surfing and hiking.

Those looking to relax and unwind can take their pick from spa holidays, yoga retreats, cooking courses as well as local dance and jazz festivals. Also, the country’s therapeutic hot springs are dotted around the region while traditional Indonesian spa therapies are there to soothe and calm.

Both on land and under water, an array of fascinating marine life is waiting to be discovered. Wakatobi is widely recognised as having the highest number of reef and fish species in the world. The islands are also famous as the largest barrier reef in Indonesia, second only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Meanwhile, the island of Flores is not only home to the fascinating Komodo dragons but also to pristine waterfalls and lakes where visitors can kayak among the craggy coasts and explore mysterious caves.

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Vox Pops

What the exhibitors say...

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MARK KIRBY Head of Hospitality

JAMES HEWITSON Cluster General Manager

ROTANA HOTEL MANAGEMENT CORPORATION “The travel and tourism sector has seen tremendous growth this year and Arabian Travel Market continues to be a great platform for industry leaders to connect and forge stronger alliances, further reasserting the public’s confidence in the future of travel. We, at Rotana, look forward to participating in this year’s edition – which will spotlight the future of travel and tourism – and advancing the conversation on wider growth opportunities as well as introducing the upcoming expansion plans for Rotana in the region.”

EMAAR HOSPITALITY GROUP “Arabian Travel Market is a leading platform that fosters business opportunities and relationships in the global travel industry. It provides leading insights on global markets and customer trends along with industry knowledge. Our participation last year was successful as we connected with industry professionals and leaders to explore new possibilities, predict trends and reimagine solutions that shaped travel and tourism in the region. We are pleased to be the official hotel partner again this year at ATM as this platform brings immense value to our industry.”

ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI RESORT & ANANTARA WORLD ISLANDS DUBAI RESORT “We aim to discuss strategy, engage in discussions with partners and promote tourism in Dubai. We are excited to present Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort as it is a great opportunity to showcase our Maldivian-style resort.

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort is also hoping to reengage with current and new partners as well as learn from our key source markets in order to become a more ecologically, financially and overall, more reputable resort on an international scale.”

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ROYAL COMMISSION FOR ALULA (RCU) “AlUla managed to create a notable buzz at last year’s ATM, and we were glad to see the high interest and demand from regional and global travel markets and the eagerness to know more about the destination. This year, we seek to further establish AlUla’s presence in the market and showcase all the new developments that have been made in the past year, in the hopes of increasing demand and visitation from the region, especially with AlUla welcoming visitors all year round and continuing this summer with its cultural and arts events.”

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A selection of exhibitors share their goals and ambitions for this year’s show

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AMIT ARORA Chief Operating Officer

GAVIN M. FAULL Chairman and President

ERIC DE NEEF Executive Vice President & Global Chief Commercial Officer

ANDREW MCEVOY Managing Director

ERTH ABU DHABI “Erth Abu Dhabi has been participating in ATM since its inception; however, more recently we have taken our own stand to exhibit ourselves as a standalone independent homegrown brand. We continue to build and strengthen relationships with the travel trade. ATM gives us the opportunity to meet our partners face to face and provide them with an update on the highly anticipated launch of Erth Abu Dhabi’s new product. Our calendar is packed and we have a full schedule of appointments at ATM this year.”

SWISS-BELHOTEL INTERNATIONAL “We are excited to continue our global expansion with a strong focus on Central and Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa. These regions hold enormous potential for our brands and are important growth markets for us.

Today, we are at 125 hotels and are aiming towards a growth of 250 hotels by 2030. Working closely with our owners, we have been successfully navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic and look forward to driving value to our owners, associates, employees and guests through our diverse brands.”

RADISSON HOTEL GROUP “The Middle East is a key market for Radisson Hotel Group – we want to grow further in the region and add further value for guests, owners and talent alike. It will be a pleasure to meet our business partners at Arabian Travel Market this year, engage and exchange ideas. Radisson Hotel Group goes through an impressive business transformation with digitalisation, innovation and sustainability being high on our agenda and shaping a promising and exciting future!”

NEOM TOURISM “Arabian Travel Market is a gathering of the best people, travel organisations and companies you find in the region. For a new destination like NEOM, it offers great exposure and connections to the partners who will help make it a global success.”

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