At the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 in Dubai, industry leaders are advocating for enhanced aviation infrastructure, emphasising its critical role in national development rather than viewing it as a luxury. This call comes as the Middle East prepares for a potential rebound in travel following recent conflicts, with leaders highlighting the need for improved data sharing and coordinated planning among governments, airlines, and tourism authorities, as reported by Economy Middle East.
During discussions at the event, executives noted that the travel sector’s swift recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic suggests that demand could return rapidly. They stressed the importance of preparing capacity and connectivity in advance to accommodate this expected surge.
Recent data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) indicates a gradual easing of declines in Middle Eastern air travel. In July, passenger demand was down 9.5% year-over-year, a significant improvement from a 28.8% drop in May. This trend underscores the need for proactive measures in the aviation sector.
Aviation as Infrastructure
Abdul Wahab Teffaha, Secretary General of the Arab Air Carriers’ Organization, highlighted that aviation has become an integral part of global connectivity. He argued that it should be regarded as essential infrastructure, particularly in the Middle East, which serves as a major hub for international travel.
Teffaha pointed out that approximately 33% of passengers travelling to or from the Asia-Pacific region in 2025 are expected to transit through the Middle East, amplifying the impact of any disruptions in the region.
Lebanon Seeks Smarter Tourism
Lebanon’s Minister of Tourism, Laura El Khazen Lahoud, called for closer collaboration between tourism authorities and airlines to enhance connectivity in the post-conflict landscape. She emphasised the importance of data sharing to align airline capacity with tourism demand effectively.
Lahoud’s comments reflect a broader strategy aimed at synchronising supply and demand, which is crucial as destinations transition from disruption to recovery.
Regional Demand Recovers
The latest aviation statistics support the notion of a gradual recovery in the region. Following a staggering 60.8% drop in international passenger traffic in March, demand has steadily improved, with IATA reporting a 63% decline in bookings during the same period.
This recovery trajectory reinforces the need for airlines and destinations to prepare for a full rebound in travel demand.
Industry Playbook Needed
Schubert Lou, CEO of Trip.com, stressed the necessity for a comprehensive industry playbook to address disruptions swiftly. He advocated for a structured approach to decision-making that would enable the industry to respond effectively to crises.
Physical and Digital Resilience
The panel discussion at ATM 2026 focused on both physical and digital connectivity, with an emphasis on the importance of multilateral communication and contingency planning in the tourism sector.
Danielle Curtis, Regional Portfolio Director – UAE at RX Global, noted the resilience demonstrated by the Middle East’s travel community amid recent challenges, highlighting the need for ongoing discussions about strengthening connectivity.
ATM Refreshes Identity
ATM 2026 also introduced a refreshed brand identity, aiming to extend the event’s reach beyond a traditional exhibition format. The event, held from September 14 to 17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, focuses on innovation, digital transformation, and evolving traveler expectations.
With over 55,000 travel professionals in attendance, ATM continues to serve as a vital platform for fostering partnerships and exploring new commercial opportunities in the travel and tourism sector.
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