The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and Arabian Travel Market (ATM) have announced a strategic partnership with the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) for the upcoming edition of ATM, which will take place 28 April-1 May 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The international organisations have been appointed as knowledge partners for the regional trade show, and will provide insights and opportunities for professionals in the MICE and business travel sectors.
They point out to impressive growth in the business travel industry, as evidenced by statistics from the 2023 GBTA Business Travel Index™ Report, which found that the industry rebounded faster than expected in 2023. Pent-up demand following the pandemic and healthier economic conditions than forecasted were highlighted as significant contributing factors for this shift. The report also stated that global business travel spending rose by 47% to $1.03 trillion last year and is expected to grow to nearly $1.8 trillion globally by 2027.
During ATM 2025, ICCA will deliver seminars covering a range of topics, while GBTA will outline the prevailing trends in the business travel sector.
Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, said: “ICCA proudly announces our collaboration with ATM as we celebrate the exciting inclusion of business events as a foundational segment in future editions… We see global business events seamlessly integrating with ATM’s rich tapestry of opportunities. With ICCA joining as a knowledge partner for the MICE segment, we are collectively positioned to redefine the landscape of collaboration, innovation and success in the interconnected realms of business. We look forward to working together in 2024 and beyond.”
Danielle Curtis, exhibition director, Arabian Travel Market, said: “All of the latest research suggests that the business events and business travel sectors are going from strength to strength. These sectors have always been important verticals at ATM, and the official partnership with ICCA and GBTA for the 2024 edition will take our offering to the next level.”
Catherine Logan, regional senior vice-president EMEA and APAC, GBTA, added: “Although one of the smaller global business travel markets, the MEA region has huge potential for growth and recovered more than any other region in 2022, reaching 95% of pre-pandemic business travel spending. Business travel spend in the region is forecast to exceed this figure in 2023 and reach $30.6m and continue its growth trajectory going forward.”
