Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid visits Arabian Travel Market 2026 as Abu Dhabi delegates feature
The Vice President and Ruler of Dubai toured the 33rd Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, where Abu Dhabi bodies including the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and Etihad showcased initiatives in technology, sustainability and smart mobility.
Overview of the visit
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, visited the 33rd Arabian Travel Market (ATM) on 14 September 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The four‑day event, running until 17 September, brings together destinations, airlines, hotel groups and technology providers to discuss the near and long‑term future of global travel and tourism.
Abu Dhabi participation
Among the national delegations and exhibitors Sheikh Mohammed inspected were Abu Dhabi entities. The Ministry of Economy and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, and national carrier Etihad were listed among the stands visited during the tour. Their presence underlines Abu Dhabi’s active role in the UAE’s wider tourism strategy and its engagement with technology, sustainability and new mobility solutions showcased at ATM.
Themes and industry focus
ATM 2026, held under the theme ‘Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology’, is framing discussions on artificial intelligence, digital transformation, destination resilience, smart mobility and sustainable tourism. Exhibitors included national airlines and hospitality groups alongside travel‑tech firms, with industry leaders and policymakers taking part in conference sessions on those topics.
Regional and international engagement
During his tour His Highness reviewed pavilions and stands operated by regional carriers and international hospitality brands, reflecting strong global participation. The event continues to serve as a platform for building commercial ties and exchanging expertise across the travel and tourism sector in the Middle East and beyond.
What this means for Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s visible participation at ATM — via its Ministry and Etihad — signals coordinated federal and emirate‑level efforts to attract investment, promote sustainable visitor experiences and adopt advanced technologies across transport and hospitality. Such engagement supports the UAE’s ambition to strengthen its role as a global hub for tourism and travel innovation.
The 33rd Arabian Travel Market reinforced Dubai’s position as a convening point for industry decision‑makers while providing Abu Dhabi institutions with a prominent international stage to present initiatives and explore partnerships that could influence regional tourism growth.
Source: WAM