The Middle East’s tourism industry is entering a strong growth phase, with international visitor spending projected to rise 57% to US$116 billion between 2025 and 2030, according to the ATM Travel Trends Report 2026.

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) report in partnership with Tourism Economics was unveiled at ATM 2026 in Dubai World Trade Centre on September 16. It forecasts international travel across the MENASA (Middle East, North Africa and South Asia) region will rebound by 17% in 2027, more than double the expected global growth of 8%.

The region has already outpaced global tourism recovery. Travel volumes across MENASA in 2025 were nearly 50% higher than in 2019, accounting for more than half of the global increase in international travel during the period.

Long-haul travellers are expected to fuel further expansion. Leisure nights by Chinese visitors in the Middle East are likely to increase by 160% by 2030.

Technology is also reshaping the sector, with 91% of Middle East travel businesses reportedly piloting or using artificial intelligence, while 85% have recorded measurable cost savings.

Tourism Economics’ Dave Goodger said favourable demographics, rising wealth and continued investment were supporting the region’s long-term momentum.

The report projects MENASA will reach 316 million international arrivals and US$408 billion in visitor spending by 2030.

Mohammed bin Rashid Tours Arabian Travel Market 2026

Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited the 33rd edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) at Dubai World Trade Centre on September 14, highlighting Dubai’s growing role in shaping the future of global tourism. 

Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE was continuing to strengthen its position as a global tourism hub, while Dubai was reinforcing its status as a leading destination through innovation, openness and strong partnerships.

Accompanied by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed toured the exhibition and reviewed emerging technologies, tourism initiatives and industry trends.

During the visit, Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, briefed him on the event’s highlights and its role in creating international partnerships and business opportunities.

He visited several national and international pavilions, including those representing Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Kuwait Airways, Bahrain, Qatar and Spain, as well as major hospitality groups such as Marriott Bonvoy and IHG Hotels & Resorts.

Held under the theme ‘Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology,’ ATM 2026 focuses on artificial intelligence, digital transformation, smart mobility, sustainability and changing traveller expectations.

Ayurveda and Health Tourism is a media partner of the event.