Tourism leaders at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 gathered on the Global Stage to discuss the investment strategies fuelling the Middle East’s rapid tourism growth.
The high-level panel at Arabian Travel Market featured insights from Hilton and Therme Dubai, focusing on sustainability, diversification, and inclusive development. These strategies are laying the foundation for a resilient and future-ready tourism industry in the region.
Diversified Tourism Key to Long-Term Growth
As per the World Trade Organisation (WTO), sustainable tourism addresses the social, economic, and environmental impacts of travel.
The panel stressed that diversification is no longer optional but essential. From heritage experiences to wellness tourism and mega-events, the Middle East must continue to innovate its offerings to meet global demand.
Wellbeing and Inclusivity: A Regional Priority
Irina Matei, CEO of Therme Dubai, shared how the world’s tallest wellbeing resort is aligned with Dubai’s vision to make wellness accessible.
She praised regional government efforts for leading inclusive strategies that prioritise long-term impact over short-term gains.
Public-Private Partnerships Accelerate Growth
Guy Hutchinson, President MEA at Hilton, highlighted the UAE as a global model in tourism development.
He credited growth to strong policy frameworks and coordinated public-private partnerships, noting that integrated infrastructure is key to sustainable expansion.
- Hutchinson- president MEA at Hilton
Collaboration is the Future of Tourism
The session emphasised that alignment between airlines, tourism boards, and governments is essential to unlock regional potential.
Hutchinson added that collaboration fuels transformation at both national and regional levels.