Dubai and the Middle East Now Poised to Capitalize on Surge in Global Leisure Travel Spending, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on November 24, 2025

According to recent projections, the global leisure travel market is expected to transform as overall seasonal travel expenditure surges from $5 trillion to $15 trillion between 2024 and 2040. This translates to roughly 7% of annual spending increase on leisure travel within the Middle East which is now on course to being one of the fastest growing tourism markets in the world. In the next five years, the Middle East region is expected to outperform all other global markets in travel, with the exception of the Asia Pacific. Growing leisure travel will be the theme of the the 2026 Arabian Travel market to be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre on 4-7 May 2026.

Focus on the Middle East’s Expanding Tourism Market

Under the theme “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology,” ATM 2026 will examine the key factors and trends shaping the future of global travel. The event will specifically explore the rapidly growing leisure tourism segment and its increasing importance to the Middle East. This region, which has experienced rapid infrastructure development, is positioning itself as a prime destination for international tourists.

A key highlight of ATM 2026 will be the ATM Travel Trends Report, developed in collaboration with Tourism Economics, which predicts that the number of international tourism nights in the Middle East will reach 1.5 billion by 2030. This marks a 90% increase from 2024, signaling a significant shift in global travel patterns. A noteworthy portion of these tourism nights will be driven by leisure travellers from outside the region, with European markets currently making up 50% of leisure travel to the Middle East.

The Impact of Changing Travel Behaviors

In the coming years, the leisure travel market will experience a major shift as demand continues to surge across different demographic segments. According to the ATM Travel Trends Report, Millennials and Gen Z travellers are playing a key role in this evolution, embracing digital tourism innovations and planning more trips than previous generations. Additionally, travel styles such as multigenerational and solo travel, once considered niche, have gained significant traction and are now firmly in the mainstream.

This shift in traveller behaviour presents new opportunities for tourism destinations and businesses, particularly in regions like the Middle East, where the demand for personalized experiences, adventure tourism, and cultural travel is growing rapidly. With tourists seeking more meaningful, authentic experiences that reflect their values, the Middle East’s unique blend of cultural heritage and modern amenities makes it an attractive choice for global travellers.

Leisure Travel Trends in the Middle East

The Middle East is witnessing a shift in the types of tourism experiences that are in high demand. The ATM Travel Trends Report found that beach holidays, city breaks, and nature-based experiences remain popular, but there is also increasing interest in sports tourism, health and wellness travel, and cultural tourism. The demand for these specialized experiences is expected to accelerate in the coming years, with the region increasingly seen as a hub for diverse leisure activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those seeking relaxation.

Sports tourism is particularly on the rise, with events such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, international football tournaments, and major golf events drawing visitors from around the world. Similarly, health and wellness tourism is rapidly growing, as travelers seek rejuvenating experiences in the region’s luxury resorts and spas, alongside access to cutting-edge wellness treatments.

Technology’s Role in Shaping Future Travel

Technology and innovation will play an essential role in shaping the future of leisure travel, as the tourism industry adapts to the changing needs and expectations of travelers. The ATM 2026 event will explore how digital innovations are transforming the way tourists plan, book, and experience their trips. From virtual reality (VR) experiences to mobile applications that enhance the travel journey, technology is enabling more personalized and streamlined travel experiences.

Technology also supports the rise of sustainable tourism, with more travelers opting for eco-friendly travel options and destinations that prioritize environmental conservation. The Middle East, with its ambitious plans for sustainable development and smart cities, is well-positioned to lead in this space, offering green travel options alongside innovative tourism experiences.

Middle East’s Role as a Tourism Gateway

As a key global tourism hub, the Middle East continues to attract attention for its diverse tourism offerings and increasing investment in the travel sector. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and other cities in the region are continually enhancing their tourism infrastructure to accommodate the influx of international tourists. With the ongoing development of world-class hotels, luxury resorts, convention centers, and transportation networks, the region is cementing its place as a top destination for both leisure and business travel.

Dubai, in particular, is emerging as a global gateway, connecting over 240 destinations across six continents. The city’s position as a center for business events, cultural tourism, and luxury travel is reinforced by its robust infrastructure, including the Dubai International Airport, which remains one of the busiest airports in the world.

Tourism’s Economic Impact on the Middle East

The growing leisure travel segment is expected to have a substantial impact on the Middle East’s economy. As tourism demand increases, the industry will continue to generate significant revenue, create jobs, and stimulate investment in various sectors. In addition to direct revenue from accommodation, transportation, and tourism activities, the growth of the tourism sector will also benefit local businesses such as restaurants, retail outlets, and cultural attractions, further integrating tourism into the broader economy.

The region’s hospitality sector is likely to see continued expansion as more international hotel chains set up operations in the Middle East, catering to the increasing number of tourists seeking luxury accommodations and high-end services. Additionally, the rise of affordable travel options and budget airlines will ensure that the Middle East remains accessible to a broad spectrum of travelers.

Arabian Travel Market as a Platform for Growth

ATM 2026 will serve as a critical platform for showcasing these opportunities, bringing together over 2,600 exhibitors from 161 countries and attracting more than 47,000 attendees. The event will provide destinations, tourism brands, airlines, and hotel operators with the chance to explore new market trends, forge partnerships, and invest in the region’s rapidly expanding tourism sector.

In addition to focusing on leisure travel, the event will highlight various other tourism sectors, including luxury travel, business events, and travel technology. Features such as the ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge and the ATM Travel Tech exhibition will spotlight the latest innovations, shaping the future of global tourism.

Middle East as a Defining Force in Global Tourism

Technological advancements, cultural opportunities, and sustainable growth will continue to fuel the tourism sector of the Middle East for the next ten years. Growth and shift will continue in this region, and the ATM 2026 event foreshadows the continued investment and collaboration in the Middle East which positions this region as a leader in the global tourism clinent.

The Middle East will realize the opportunities associated with the 15 trillion dollars expected in leisure travel by 2040 and the relationship between the culturally diverse and rich travel experiences. Due to the inherent cultural significance, the growing innovation, and the sustainable commitment, the region will continue to be a tourism leader.