Arabian Travel Market starts in Dubai

In an age when technology has overtaken physical contacts and old world across-the-table meetings, the travel trade in the Middle East continues to rely on old fashioned tour operators and travel agencies to connect travelers with destinations. But times are changing. Online travel agencies are mushrooming and travelers are increasingly getting inspiration from the internet. However, a sizeable number of actual bookings continue to take place through tour operators who put together attractive deals.

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Tourism is hoping to push family tourism centre stage. "Dubai is not just for 5-star hotels and expensive holidays. We want to encourage those who stay in 3-star hotels to come to the city. However, we want them to get the same superlative treatment that Dubai is famous for." Islamic or Halal Tourism is gaining grounds and is now a $140 billion industry, focusing on family tourism is expected to attract many Muslim tourists to Dubai, particularly the Muslim diaspora living in North America and Europe. Dubai wants to retain its attraction as a destination for global tourists while maintaining the cultural norms expected from the region.

Seminars on travel technology are also part of this year's ATM Dubai and a number of online travel companies are exhibiting at the show. The editorial team from Irhal will be doing the rounds and networking with airlines, hotels and tourism boards.