Dubai Tourism AI Shapes the Future of Travel at ATM 2026
Dubai is putting artificial intelligence at the centre of its tourism strategy as the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre from September 14 to 17.
The Dubai tourism AI push is focused on using technology to make travel more connected, personalised and efficient. AI is being discussed not only as a customer service tool but also as a way to improve how destinations, airlines, hotels and attractions work together.
Dr Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of AI at Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, opened the Future Stage at ATM 2026 with a focus on how AI can reshape the systems supporting global travel.
Dubai is already using AI through tools such as its AI-powered itinerary planner. The emirate is also introducing digital services designed to make hotel check-ins and other parts of the visitor journey easier.
The 33rd edition of ATM is being held under the theme “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology.” A new ATM Travel Tech event is also running alongside the main exhibition, bringing together technology companies and travel businesses.
AI, robotics, virtual and augmented reality, fintech and digital transformation are among the major technology areas being discussed at the event.
Dubai’s tourism sector is also showing signs of recovery. The emirate welcomed around 869,000 international overnight visitors in August, its strongest monthly visitor volume since February. International visitor numbers reached approximately 6.97 million during the first eight months of 2026.
The focus on Dubai tourism AI comes as the city looks to strengthen its position as a global tourism hub. By connecting data, digital infrastructure and tourism services, Dubai aims to offer visitors faster and more personalised experiences while helping businesses respond more effectively to changing travel demand.
