The Role of Travel Technology in Transforming the Industry
Travel technology continues to change how travellers plan, book, and experience their trips worldwide. A recent report by Tourism Economics, commissioned by Arabian Travel Market (ATM), reveals that 60% of travellers in the UAE trust Artificial Intelligence (AI) to manage every aspect of their journeys. This compares to 48% in other countries, with the number expected to grow as technology becomes part of everyday habits.
In the Middle East, AI is becoming a crucial tool for travel planning. Nearly 60% of travellers have used AI for planning their trips, and 21% used it just before their most recent travel. As more people adopt AI, it will play a bigger role in offering personalised recommendations and smoother booking experiences, especially for tech-savvy travellers. Travel companies are also using AI to improve customer service and boost economic outcomes.
Human Connection Remains Central
At ATM 2025, experts from technology, hospitality, and events gathered to discuss how AI and data-led platforms affect human connection. Amy Read, VP Innovation at Sabre Hospitality, emphasized that hospitality is rooted in human interaction. The goal is to use technology to enhance these moments rather than replace them. By automating routine tasks, staff can focus on more meaningful guest engagement.
Read also pointed out that guests now expect immediate responses and instant gratification, pushing hospitality providers to adapt. This demand has led to innovations like SynXis Concierge AI, which employs generative AI to provide quick, detailed answers to guest questions. This reduces dependency on individual staff knowledge and ensures consistent, high-quality service 24/7.
AI in Business Events
The meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector is also benefiting from AI. The global events industry is projected to hit $945 billion in 2025 and exceed $2.3 trillion by 2032. With this growth, scalable and intelligent tools are vital. AI supports data-driven personalisation, helping automate sourcing, provide real-time translation, and create customised event experiences that boost attendee engagement and loyalty.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director Middle East at Arabian Travel Market, highlighted that effective travel and tourism technologies improve efficiency, enhance human interactions, and respond directly to customer needs. She noted the industry's shared focus on responsible innovation, keeping people at the centre of technology solutions.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 ATM Travel Tech showcase was the largest to date, featuring a 26% increase in products. The upcoming ATM 2026, scheduled for May 4–7, will continue to spotlight innovations shaping the travel industry's future.
For hospitality and events professionals eager to deepen their understanding of AI and travel technology, exploring targeted courses can provide practical skills and insights. Resources like Complete AI Training’s courses by job role offer tailored learning paths suitable for the industry.
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