By Danielle Curtis, Regional Portfolio Director-UAE, RX Global
The travel and tourism industry has always demonstrated an extraordinary ability to adapt.
Whether responding to economic uncertainty, global health crises or geopolitical developments, our sector has consistently shown that collaboration, innovation and resilience are the foundations of long-term growth.
Today, those qualities continue to be tested. Yet what continues to distinguish Dubai and the wider GCC is not simply their ability to respond to challenges, but their commitment to long-term planning, operational excellence and international collaboration.
These qualities have ensured the region remains open, connected and firmly positioned as one of the world's most trusted hubs for tourism, business and global events.
Confidence is one of tourism's most valuable assets. It influences investment, traveller behaviour, airline capacity and destination competitiveness.
While confidence can be fragile, it is strengthened through decisive action, transparent leadership and the ability to deliver consistently. This is where the Middle East continues to demonstrate its strength.
Dubai's tourism ecosystem remains resilient thanks to close collaboration between government and industry, world-class infrastructure and a diversified visitor economy.
Combined with strong global connectivity, these strengths continue to reinforce the city's reputation as a destination capable of hosting major international events while providing reassurance for travellers, investors and tourism businesses alike.
However, resilience alone is not enough. Our industry must also prepare for what comes next.
That is why the theme of ATM 2026, Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology, is particularly timely.
Innovation is no longer simply about improving efficiency or enhancing customer experiences.
Technologies such as artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, smart mobility and immersive digital experiences are becoming essential tools for building a more resilient, agile and personalised tourism sector.
ATM continues to evolve alongside the industry it serves, and this year's edition reflects those changing priorities.
A major highlight will be the launch of ATM Travel Tech as a fully co-located exhibition, providing a dedicated platform for the technologies transforming every stage of the traveller journey.
At the centre of the exhibition, the Tech & Innovation Hub will showcase advances in AI, robotics, fintech, sustainability and immersive technologies, while the Future Stage will host technology leaders and entrepreneurs exploring topics ranging from cybersecurity to the future of digital travel.
Knowledge sharing remains equally central to the ATM experience. Across the Global Stage, Future Stage and Experience Hub, delegates will hear from leading researchers, policymakers and innovators examining destination resilience, crisis preparedness, traveller confidence, digital transformation, sustainable growth and emerging travel trends.
The programme will feature respected industry voices including Nicola Amanda J. Bernstein, Minister for Tourism and Culture, Seychelles; Dr Marwan Alzarouni, CEO of AI at Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; Richard Stolz, Principal, Roland Berger; Irina Matei, CEO, Therme Dubai; BBC presenter Nick Kwek; Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE, dnata Travel; Sienna Parulis-Cook of Dragon Trail; and Virendra Jain, Founder of Videc, offering valuable perspectives on the future of global tourism.
As the global travel community gathers in Dubai this September, ATM will provide a platform for meaningful dialogue, stronger partnerships and practical ideas that will help shape the future of tourism at a time when collaboration has never been more important.
Resilience has brought us this far. Collaboration, innovation and confidence will define where we go next.