Middle East travel sector advancing sustainable options
Arabian Travel Market 2023 to focus on sustainability and decarbonising global travel
Green airlines, eco hospitality, sustainable attractions, locally sourced products and forward-thinking government initiatives will take centre stage at the 30th Arabian Travel Market, from 1-4 May next year.
The theme of the conference is ‘Working Towards Net Zero’, with experts from the public and private sectors gathering to explore the decarbonised future of global travel.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “The 30th edition of ATM will not only drive home the importance of working towards net zero within the Middle East’s tourism sector, but also showcase the practical steps being taken across our industry to achieve regional and global sustainability goals.”
Tourism-related activities account for approximately eight per cent of worldwide carbon emissions, according to Sustainable Travel International. Therefore, in preparation for ATM 2023, the organisers have highlighted five sustainable trends that have already gained significant momentum in the Middle East.
They are greener airlines; eco hotels and resorts; sustainable attractions and activities; locally sourced produce; and top-down strategies.
ATM 2023 is a global platform for regional experts to explore the sector’s sustainable future ahead of COP28, taking place in Dubai in November next year.
Additionally, a sustainability category features in the annual exhibitor awards for the first time. Exhibiting organisations will be recognised, based on the extent to which they have considered the environmental impact of their stands, as well as efforts to reduce or offset their carbon footprints.
Focusing on sustainability is key after travel recovery in the Middle East post-pandemic.