Tourism and investment stakeholders convened at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) to explore how strategic investment is accelerating the development of the Middle East’s tourism sector. A high-level panel session held on the Global Stage highlighted the importance of government policy, innovative projects, and public-private collaboration in supporting sustainable growth.
The discussion aligned with the World Tourism Organization’s (WTO) definition of sustainable tourism, which encompasses economic, social, and environmental considerations, aiming to meet the needs of visitors, industries, and host communities. As the Middle East emerges as one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations globally, experts on the panel underscored the importance of diversifying tourism offerings to meet changing traveler expectations.
Speakers emphasized that diversification is a fundamental requirement for long-term sectoral resilience. Expanding tourism experiences across wellness, heritage, adventure, and entertainment is seen as key to attracting a broader international audience. 
Irina Matei, CEO of Therme Dubai—expected to be the tallest wellbeing resort in the world—shared insights on the importance of accessibility in wellness tourism. She noted the collaborative role of Dubai Municipality in advancing health and wellbeing initiatives, adding that government strategies across the region are placing inclusivity and long-term value at the center of their tourism agendas.
The panel also discussed the broader economic impact of major events, such as the FIFA World Cup and Expo 2020 Dubai. These large-scale projects have significantly raised the region’s international tourism profile and contributed to increased visitor numbers.
Guy Hutchinson, President of Hilton MEA, highlighted the region’s rapid tourism infrastructure growth and its global influence. He pointed to the UAE as an example of a country that has progressed from developing its own tourism model to becoming a reference point for other markets. Hutchinson cited strong demand across tourism segments and effective collaboration between public and private sectors as driving factors behind the region’s success.
The discussion also focused on the importance of integrated policies and stakeholder alignment. Hutchinson noted that structured collaboration among governments, airlines, and the tourism industry is essential for achieving national and regional development goals.
In addition to the investment-focused panel, ATM will host its first Influencer Networking session on the Global Stage. Organised in collaboration with NaviSavi, the session will connect influencers with leading tourism brands and destinations, creating new opportunities for engagement and promotion.
Arabian Travel Market continues at the Dubai World Trade Centre through 1st May.
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