Uniting Biotech’s Brightest Minds: Lifera’s Biotech Investor Panel Sets a Global Agenda for Collaboration and Regional Leadership Under Vision 2030
Rashad Iskandrni
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – In a historic gathering that underscored Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 and its National Biotechnology Strategy, Lifera hosted a groundbreaking panel discussion titled ‘Elevating Saudi Biotech to Global Heights’ on October 28, 2024. The event brought together some of the most prominent names in biotechnology for the first time, including:
I. Dr. Noubar Afeyan (PhD.) – Founder & CEO, Flagship Pioneering
II. Dr. Vik Bajaj (PhD.) – Managing Director, Foresite Capital
III. Bob Nelsen – Co-Founder & Managing Director, ARCH Venture Partners
IV. Andrea Ponti – Founder & Managing Partner, GHO Capital
who shared transformative insights on the role of biotechnology in addressing regional and global challenges.
Moderated by Dr. Sara Althari, Founder & Managing Partner of The Althari Group (TAG.), the panel explored themes critical to advancing Saudi Arabia’s National Biotechnology Strategy. From fostering innovation to investing in cutting-edge technologies, the session highlighted the Kingdom’s potential to lead the regional biotech revolution while contributing to global advancements for humanity. With the global biotechnology market value projected to grow from cUSD$483 billion in 2024 to cUSD$546 billion by year-end 2025, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 13% - this a clear opportunity for The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with advancements beneficial for the people of the nation.
Biotechnology – A Pillar of Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its National Biotechnology Strategy aim to position the Kingdom as a regional hub for innovation, contributing to the global biotech industry while enhancing self-sufficiency in areas like vaccine production, genomics, and precision medicine. The Lifera panel provided a platform to discuss actionable steps toward achieving these goals.
“Saudi Arabia’s commitment to biotechnology aligns with a global mission to solve some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare,” said Dr. Noubar Afeyan, Founder & CEO of Flagship Pioneering and co-founder of Moderna. “This is a unique opportunity for the Kingdom to lead in areas like pandemic preparedness, chronic disease management, and the integration of precision medicine across healthcare systems.”
The session reinforced the message that biotechnology could play a transformative role in tackling chronic diseases prevalent in the region, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, while also addressing global health crises.
Collaboration emerged as a central theme with the panel highlighting how partnerships across government entities, academic institutions, and private sector players could accelerate Saudi Arabia’s growth as a biotechnology leader. “Biotechnology is a deeply collaborative industry that thrives on partnerships,” said Bob Nelsen, Co-Founder & Managing Director of ARCH Venture Partners. “To become a regional leader, the Kingdom must continue fostering an environment where innovators, investors, and scientists can come together to create transformative solutions. Saudi Arabia has the capital, vision, and drive to make this happen.”
The discussion called for greater regional data-sharing, joint ventures, and research collaborations to create a thriving ecosystem that benefits from the collective expertise of the global biotech community.
Harnessing AI and Data for Regional Impact
The transformative role of artificial intelligence and data in advancing biotechnology, particularly in areas like drug discovery, disease prevention, and personalised medicine emerged as a key point of discussion. “Data is the foundation of biotechnology, and Saudi Arabia’s ability to build and leverage a robust data ecosystem will be key to its success,” said Dr. Vik Bajaj, Managing Director of Foresite Capital. “By creating datasets that represent unique regional populations, the Kingdom can not only drive local advancements but also contribute significantly to the global understanding of disease and treatment.”
The strategic vision of Lifera has already noted the potential of AI-driven innovations to personalise healthcare for regional populations, addressing genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors unique to the Middle East. Through the creation of Lifera Omics in January 2024 and the launch of bioinformatics solutions for genetic testing and drug discovery planned for May 2025, Lifera is establishing capacity to improve the quality of genetic tests offered to patients in Saudi Arabia whilst at the same time developing capabilities to align and curate large datasets for research and development. Through various partnerships, Lifera Omics has differentiated clinical diagnostic capabilities and access to Saudi patient consented data highly enriched for rare diseases. Globally recognised Saudi human geneticist, Professor Fowzan AlKuraya, joined Lifera Omics as Chief Genomics and Medical Officer and is building a team of clinical geneticists and bioinformaticians to deliver innovative data-driven solutions to patients in Saudi Arabia aligned with global initiatives in research and development. The integration of AI into biotechnology offers opportunities to develop treatments tailored to the specific needs of Saudi Arabia’s citizens as well as the wider region.
The discussion turned to the essential infrastructure and talent development required to support Saudi Arabia’s biotech aspirations. From advanced manufacturing facilities to streamlined regulatory frameworks, the forum stressed that building a robust ecosystem is key to scaling innovation.
“Infrastructure is the backbone of biotechnology,” said Andrea Ponti, Founder & Managing Partner of GHO Capital. “Investments in state-of-the-art facilities and its focus on creating a streamlined, supportive regulatory environment position The Kingdom to be a global leader. The nation is uniquely placed to scale biotech innovations not just for its population but for the entire region.”
Equally important is the development of human capital. A call for greater investment in training programs, academic partnerships, and incentives to attract top global talent to Saudi Arabia. “We need to think about people as much as we think about technology,” added Ponti. “Biotech is a deeply human endeavour, and the Kingdom’s ability to cultivate and retain talent will be a decisive factor in its success.” To enable the development of Saudi Arabia’s biotechnology sector, Lifera sent its first cohort of trainees to its customer sites in 2024 to be trained in sterile drug product manufacturing and plans include training approximately 200 individuals through to 2029 in biomanufacturing and genomics.
Illuminating Saudi Arabia’s Path to Life Science Leadership
As Saudi Arabia continues its journey toward becoming a leader in biotechnology, the panellists provided targeted advice on how the Kingdom can realise its ambitious Vision 2030 goals. Looking further ahead, the global market is expected to reach in excess of a trillion USD$ by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.27% during the 2025-2033 period. Central to their insights was the importance of strategic planning, collaboration, and investing in distinct areas that play to Saudi Arabia’s strengths.
“Saudi Arabia has a unique opportunity to lead by example,” said Dr. Noubar Afeyan, Founder & CEO of Flagship Pioneering. “By setting bold, long-term goals—whether that’s addressing specific diseases or pioneering advancements in climate-related health challenges—the Kingdom can demonstrate that it is not only a regional leader but also a global innovator.”
Dr. Afeyan further emphasized the need for ambition and focus: “To make those miracles happen, Saudi Arabia must think big—whether it’s developing a universal vaccine, eradicating a specific disease, or tackling the health impacts of climate change. The Kingdom has the resources and vision to aim high and achieve transformative results.”
The need for unity across sectors was reiterated. Bob Nelsen, Co-Founder & Managing Director of ARCH Venture Partners, emphasized, “Achieving these goals requires deep and sustained collaboration—across borders, disciplines, and industries. Saudi Arabia is perfectly positioned to leverage its resources and geography to become a hub for transformative innovation.” He further advised, “To truly lead, you cannot aim for 70% success in too many areas. Instead, focus on achieving 100% excellence in a select few, becoming a world-class leader in those domains.”
Talent cultivation was another critical factor. “Biotechnology thrives on human capital,” noted Andrea Ponti, Founder & Managing Partner of GHO Capital. “Saudi Arabia must invest in building a skilled workforce, forging academic partnerships, and creating incentives to attract global expertise.”
By embracing these strategies, Saudi Arabia can solidify its position as a pioneer in the life sciences, shaping the future of global healthcare and innovation.
مواضيع ذات صلة
Oman unveils Dhofar Khareef 2025 highlights at Arabian Travel Market
Dubai,
United Arab Emirates, 29 April 2025: The Oman Ministry of Heritage and
Tourism, in collaboration with Dhofar Municipality, officially announced the
much-anticipated Dhofar Khareef 2025 season during a press conference held on
the sidelines of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai.
The
announcement was led by His Excellency Dr Ahmed bin Mohsen Al Ghassani,
Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, and His Excellency Azzan bin Qasim Al
Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism at the Ministry of Heritage and
Tourism, highlighting Oman’s commitment to promoting one of the Arabian
Peninsula’s most unique tourism seasons to the world.
Held annually from 21 June to 20 September, the Dhofar Khareef season transforms the southern region of Oman into a lush, verdant paradise, offering visitors moderate temperatures, misty landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. In 2024, the Khareef season recorded a 9% year-on-year increase in tourist arrivals, reaching approximately 1.048 million visitors, reflecting Dhofar’s growing status as a premier regional and international tourism destination.
During the
press conference, His Excellency Dr Al Ghassani outlined the new and expanded
activities enriching the visitor experience during Dhofar Khareef 2025. He emphasised
that the season’s main and accompanying events will be distributed across
existing and newly developed sites, with diverse entertainment, cultural, and
family-oriented attractions.
Building on the
success of its new location last year, "Return of the Past" will have
an expanded program showcasing the spirit of Oman’s traditional life. Visitors
will experience authentic folk performances, bustling heritage markets, and
exhibitions of traditional crafts. Significant site development has enhanced
the historical ambience, creating an immersive experience that blends heritage
with modern amenities.
Emerging as a
key entertainment hub, Athens Square will host major international shows,
cultural events, and shopping experiences. Upgraded facilities include an
open-air theatre, integrated shopping avenues, modern gaming zones, and
enhanced restaurant and café offerings. New lighting and laser shows will
further elevate its appeal as a vibrant entertainment destination.
Redesigned as a
dedicated family entertainment centre, Awqad Park will introduce a refreshed
identity with various activities designed for families and young visitors.
Meanwhile, the Uptown Site at Ittin Plain will offer a natural retreat
featuring outdoor recreational activities in a scenic environment.
Set to become
the epicentre for sports activities during Khareef, Salalah Public Park will
host various tournaments and community sports events, with inclusive activities
catering to all age groups and people of determination.
A new addition
to Dhofar’s cultural scene, Al Murooj Theater will stage various cultural
performances, including Omani, Gulf, and Arab theatrical productions, offering
visitors a dynamic audiovisual cultural experience.
His Excellency
also indicated plans to extend Khareef events to coastal governorates,
celebrating the unique microclimates influenced by the autumn rains with
additional cultural, sporting, and commercial activities.
Recognising the
steady growth in visitor numbers, Dhofar Municipality has accelerated
development projects across the Governorate to enhance the tourist experience.
In collaboration with government and private sector partners, efforts include developing
natural viewpoints, upgrading tourist sites, beautifying public spaces, and
road infrastructure enhancements.
Today, Dhofar Governorate boasts 83 licensed hotels offering 6,537 rooms across various categories, with several new hospitality projects set to open in 2025. These expansions will significantly bolster the region’s capacity to accommodate the expected rise in domestic and international tourists.
His Excellency
Azzan bin Qasim Al Busaidi outlined the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism’s
multi-faceted promotional campaign designed to elevate Dhofar Khareef’s profile
on the global stage.
During the
press conference, he highlighted key initiatives, such as participation at ATM
2025 to engage directly with international tourism stakeholders and media,
alongside broad advertising campaigns across leading Arab media outlets and
specialised travel platforms. The Ministry is also implementing targeted social
media promotions, electronic advertising, and collaborations with influential
content creators to raise awareness across key markets to enhance digital reach.
In addition,
the Ministry is organising a series of familiarisation trips for international
travel agencies and media representatives, providing firsthand experiences of
Dhofar’s diverse offerings. Tailored tourism packages are also being developed
in cooperation with local and international tour operators, ensuring seamless
travel experiences that link Oman’s unique destinations with global source
markets and reinforce the Sultanate’s appeal as a must-visit destination.
His
Excellency Al Busaidi
said: “Our objective is to position Dhofar as a world-class destination that
offers a unique combination of nature, culture, and heritage. We aim to attract
visitors seeking authentic, high-quality travel experiences through our
targeted campaigns and expanded tourism offerings.”
While the
Khareef season remains an integral part of Dhofar’s tourism calendar, the
Governorate also offers a wealth of experiences year-round. The Sarab and
Winter seasons have seen increasing popularity, attracting nearly half a
million visitors annually thanks to Dhofar’s temperate climate and diverse natural
landscapes.
Visitors can
explore Dhofar’s breathtaking beaches, mountain ranges, desert expanses, and
fertile agricultural valleys. In addition to natural attractions, the
Governorate is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Al
Baleed Archaeological Park, Samharam Archaeological Park, and the Museum of the
Land of Frankincense, underscoring Oman’s rich cultural legacy.
In preparation
for the 2025 season, public and private sector entities are working together to
ensure that all facilities, services, and tourism offerings are fully equipped
to meet the needs of visitors worldwide.
With consistent
year-on-year growth and expanded tourism offerings, Dhofar is poised for
another record-breaking season in 2025. Last year, the 9% increase in visitor
numbers highlights the Governorate’s growing importance within Oman’s broader
tourism strategy, contributing to economic diversification and enhancing Oman’s
reputation as a leading destination in the Arabian Gulf.
As Oman
showcases Dhofar’s exceptional potential to global audiences at ATM 2025, the
Sultanate reaffirms its commitment to delivering sustainable, authentic, and
world-class tourism experiences for visitors from the GCC and beyond.
ENDS
منذ 6 ساعات . News
Automechanika Riyadh explores the Middle East’s transformation into a global automotive hub
Senior stakeholders gathered at the Automechanika
Academy conference to outline the positioning of the
Middle East as a globally connected automotive ecosystem
The session emphasised the
importance of localising EV infrastructure, expanding automotive manufacturing
zones, and aligning standards to attract global investment in the region's
mobility industry.
The seventh edition of Automechanika
Riyadh features over 450
exhibitors from more than 30 countries and 19,000 industry professionals.
Riyadh, KSA: As the automotive aftermarket
across the Middle East experiences rapid growth and change, senior stakeholders
convened at the Automechanika Riyadh 2025, Saudi Arabia’s
leading regional trade show for the automotive aftermarket, to outline a
strategy for establishing the region as a global hub for the automotive
industry.
Supported by
Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is quickly emerging as a significant player in global
automotive manufacturing. Major projects such as Lucid Motors' plant in King
Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) and the launch of Ceer are aimed at localising the
Kingdom’s automotive value chain. In addition, the broader MENA region is
contributing to this transformation, with Morocco raising its ambition is to
achieve an annual production of one million cars by 2025, and the UAE becoming
a crucial hub for aftermarket services and re-exports.
During his keynote
address at the Automechanika Academy conference Dr. Faisal Al-Kadi, CEO,
Al-Kadi Commerce & Industry, highlighted partnerships as a key driver
to business success in the Kingdom: “In Saudi Arabia, you have to be within the
fabric of the industry. The country has a vibrant local industry. It has
fantastic companies that are very active in the industry across all stages. I
think partnerships – both local and international - are the way forward.”
This was followed
by a panel discussion, “Building
the Middle East’s Automotive Hub”, featuring key voices from
industry, logistics, manufacturing, and policy. The panellists discussed the
transformation of the aftermarket, focusing on topics such as localisation,
supply chain and cluster development, and the need for harmonised certification
processes. These themes are vital to enhancing trust and competitiveness in
locally manufactured and remanufactured automotive parts.
Ben Stewart,
Supply Chain Director, Lucid MENA, said: “One of
the things we need to do is create the environment for the suppliers. We are
working very hard with government bodies as well as private companies, other
OEMs and other industries to create a supply chain that’s sustainable.”
Key trends
discussed during the panel emphasised the necessity of standardised
certification frameworks to facilitate regional aftermarket growth, and the
government’s role in enabling the growth.
“We hope to create
a real deep localisation. This is our goal, and we have support from the
government policy which can support the upstream and downstream localisation,”
added Aftab Ahmed, Chief Advisor, National Industrial Development Center.
The Automechanika
Academy serves as the show’s knowledge exchange hub, bringing together regional
and global experts to address the future of the automotive aftermarket.
Bilal Al
Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia, licensee of Automechanika Riyadh
directed by Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH, said:
“The Automechanika Academy has once again delivered powerful conversations that
address real-world challenges. Covering topics from industrial localisation to
digital innovation, these discussions reflect our commitment to giving the
aftermarket sector the tools needed to excel in an increasingly interconnected
and competitive global market."
Automechanika
Riyadh 2025 will feature over 450 exhibitors from more than 34 countries and an
expected 19,000 visitors. The seventh edition of the event will also feature 39
exhibitors from Saudi Arabia, representing nearly 10% of the total exhibitors
and highlighting the market growth within the country.
Aly
Hefny, Show Manager, Automechanika Riyadh, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, added: “The
increasing participation of Saudi companies reflects the Kingdom's expanding
role in the regional automotive supply chain.
To accommodate this demand, we have expanded the exhibition by 70% compared to
last year, adding two new halls and offering an even stronger platform for
local and international companies to connect, collaborate, and grow.”
The
product areas showcased at Automechanika Riyadh include Parts & Components, Electronics
& Systems, Tires & Batteries, Oils & Lubricants, Accessories &
Customising, Diagnostics & Repairs, Body & Paint, and Car Wash &
Care.
-ENDS-
About Automechanika Riyadh
Automechanika Riyadh, licensed by Messe Frankfurt
GmbH, will take place from 28 April – 30 April 2025 at Riyadh International
Convention and Exhibition Centre. This will be the 7th edition of Automechanika
in Saudi Arabia, which is the leading exhibition dedicated to the automotive
aftermarket industry in the Kingdom. The dedicated exhibition is one of 14
instalments of Automechanika – the most successful and largest automotive
aftermarket exhibition brand in the world.
For more information, please visit our
website.
About 1st Arabia
1st Arabia Tradeshows & Conferences is a
leading exhibition & conference organiser in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Headquartered in Riyadh, 1st Arabia has regional offices in Jordan and is set
to expand its operations in more countries regionally. 1st Arabia organises top
international trade exhibitions and conferences that provide unparalleled
networking and business opportunities for companies looking to excel and grow
within the Kingdom. Apart from conducting quality and high profile B2B trade
fairs, country specific shows, corporate events, conferences, events management
and festivals, 1st Arabia also provides a complete marketing tool and
exhibition solutions to their valued clients. 1st Arabia is the only MICE
organisation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia who is a member of the
International Organizations like IAEE, ICCA, MPI PCMA, SISO and, UFI.
For more information, please visit our
website: https://1starabia.sa/
منذ 6 ساعات . News
The Preferred Smartphone for Roshn Saudi League Players
Rashad Iskandrni
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – In a
strategic move that underscores its leadership in technological innovation,
Samsung has officially announced the selection of the Galaxy S25
as the official smartphone of the Roshn Saudi League (SPL).
This cutting-edge device embodies Samsung’s commitment to innovation and
excellence, offering a premium experience tailored to the needs of both players
and fans. Designed with advanced imaging technology, the Galaxy S25 enhances
the way sporting moments are captured and shared.
Next-Level Zoom Technology to Capture Every Sporting Moment:
Equipped with an exceptional zoom capability — combining optical and digital
zoom of up to 100x without compromising image quality — the Galaxy S25 allows
players to capture stunning photos and videos from any angle on the field. With
crystal-clear clarity, users can record and share key moments with their
audience in a professional, immersive way.
Enhancing the Fan Experience:
Through this collaboration, Samsung aims to elevate how fans engage with the
Roshn Saudi League by introducing a smartphone that empowers players to
document every match moment in unprecedented detail. With powerful camera
features, users can enjoy a richer, more vivid viewing experience, capturing
even the finest on-field details that might otherwise go unnoticed.
In an
official statement, Mr. Hendrik Lee, President of
Samsung Electronics Saudi Arabia, said:
"We are proud to introduce the Galaxy S25 as the
official smartphone of the Roshn Saudi League. This partnership reflects our
deep commitment to supporting sports in the Kingdom and enhancing engagement
between players and fans. By equipping athletes with this advanced device, we
are taking the viewing experience to the next level through
ultra-high-definition technology. We firmly believe that innovation can redefine
the way we live and experience the world around us — and the Saudi League is
the ideal platform to demonstrate this."
The Galaxy S25 is crafted for sports and tech enthusiasts alike, offering the ideal tools to document unforgettable moments. With cutting-edge camera capabilities that bring visuals closer to reality, the device is set to transform the way fans experience the Roshn Saudi League — making every match moment clearer, richer, and more alive than ever before.
منذ 8 ساعات . News
MATCH Hospitality Asia delivers the Official Hospitality Programme for the AFC Champions League Elite™ Finals Jeddah 2025
Rashad Iskandrni
Jeddah – Saudi Arabia: An all-new Finals concept sees four qualified teams
progress to a centralised tournament consisting of 3 further matches to be held
across 2 stadiums in Jeddah this week as continental football fever grips the
Kingdom.
The new format already witnessed hosted exciting matches at the weekend, with
the quarter-finals seeing three Saudi Arabian teams progress to the last four
of the competition. Al Hilal SFC
defeated Gwangju, from the Republic of Korea; Al Ahli Saudi FC beat Thailand’s
Buriram United, while Al Nassr Club saw off Japanese club Yokohama F.
Marinos. In the fourth quarter-final, Japan’s
Kawasaki Frontale beat Qatari side Al Sadd SC, leading to the semi-final
encounters.
The semi-finals will see Al Hilal SFC take
on Al Ahli Saudi, on Tuesday evening, with Al Nassr Club facing Yokohama F
Marinos, on Wednesday. The winners of those ties will face-off in the ultimate
challenge and the final on Saturday, 3 May.
Guests in Official Hospitality will enjoy
all the action on the pitch from the sophisticated surroundings of shared
lounges and private suites that deliver the best views of the match whilst
enjoying an outstanding service.
MATCH is honoured to work again with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in an
ongoing partnership and looks forward to delivering an exceptional hospitality
experience in Saudi Arabia.
MATCH Accommodation Asia has also been endorsed by the AFC as an “Official
Accommodation Agency” and the “Official Ticket and Accommodation Product
Provider” of the AFC Champions League Elite™ Finals Jeddah to deliver
accommodation and category-1 tickets to travelling fans and groups.
For more information, visit match-asia.com
HOSPITALITY SPECIFIC
Enjoy an elevated AFC Champions League
Elite™ Finals Jeddah 2025 experience with Official Hospitality. Enjoy all the
action on the pitch with a guaranteed category-1 ticket providing prime seating
and exclusive in-stadium dining and service. Fans can choose from tiered
hospitality levels and benefit from preferential entry to the stadiums and
access to sophisticated shared lounges or private suites; enjoy dining
experiences such as bespoke menus or buffet offerings, accompanied by a
selection of beverages and exceptional service.
ADDITIONAL INFO
Megastar players will be playing in the
Finals:
Roberto Firminio
Ivan Toney
Riyad Mahrez
Roberto Firminio
Galeno
Cristiano Ronaldo
Sadio Mane
Aymeric Laporte
2 stadiums:
King Abdullah Sports City, Home to Team
Al-Ahli.. Capacity 61,000Future FIFA World Cup stadium.
Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium, Home to
Team Al-Ittihad. Capacity 24,000
Hospitality products:
MATCH Lounge from 4,000 SAR
MATCH Private Suite (Gold & Silver)
Hospitality series (bundle of games):
Final Round Series from 7,800 SAR
Secure your seat to watch one Semi Final
and the Final or both Semi Finals and the Final of the AFC Champions League
Elite™ Finals Jeddah 2025.
منذ 19 ساعة . News
Ahmed bin Saeed opens Arabian Travel Market 2025
The 32nd edition of the event at the Dubai World
Trade Centre features a record 2,800 exhibitors from 166 countries
His
Highness: Guided
by the vision of our leadership, Dubai continues to consolidate its position as
a leading global destination for tourism and a key meeting point for industry
stakeholders
“The longstanding success of ATM highlights Dubai’s pivotal role in
fostering strategic partnerships that drive the growth and advancement of the
global tourism industry”
ATM 2025 is organised
under the theme ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced
Connectivity’
Held from 28
April to 1 May, this year’s event sees significant growth in participation
across global markets
ATM Travel
Tech has expanded by more than 26% this year, reflecting the sector’s
increasing integration with technology and innovation
Government of Dubai
Media Office – 28 April 2025: His Highness
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority,
Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates
Airline and Group, today opened the 32nd edition of Arabian Travel
Market (ATM), a leading global event for the travel and tourism industry, being
held from 28 April to 1 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Bringing together professionals and
leaders from across the global travel sector, including leisure, business
events (MICE), luxury, and corporate travel, this year’s event features a
record 2,800 exhibitors from 166 countries and is expected to welcome 55,000
attendees.
During the
opening, His
Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed said that
the strong turnout at this year’s Arabian Travel Market reflects Dubai’s
position as a leading global hub for tourism, travel and hospitality, and
underscores the emirate’s growing role in shaping the future of the global
tourism sector.
His Highness
said: “Guided
by the vision of our leadership, Dubai continues to consolidate its position as
a leading global destination for tourism and a key meeting point for industry
stakeholders, bringing together investors, decision-makers, experts and leading
travel agencies from around the world. The
longstanding success of Arabian Travel Market highlights Dubai’s pivotal role
in fostering strategic partnerships that drive the growth and advancement of
the global tourism industry.”
His Highness
added: “The events and exhibitions sector remain a vital driver of Dubai’s
economic growth. The success of Arabian Travel Market, along with other major
events hosted by the city throughout the year, reflects our steady progress
towards achieving a key objective of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which is to
position
Dubai among the world’s top three cities for business and specialised tourism
by 2033.”
Following the official inauguration, His Highness toured the exhibition halls, accompanied by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority; and His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate for Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai.
Key
Highlights
His Highness was briefed on key
highlights of the 32nd edition of Arabian Travel Market, which has recorded a
significant increase in international exhibitor participation, with a 20% rise
from Asia, a 15% increase from the Middle East, more than 12% growth from
Europe, and continued growth from Africa and the Americas.
ATM 2025 is being held under the theme ‘Global
Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’,
underlining the vital role of cross-border collaboration, industry
partnerships, and community engagement in reshaping the future of tourism and
advancing sustainable practices.
Several new features are debuting at ATM
2025. Responding to growing demand for a dedicated platform for business
events, IBTM@ATM has been launched this year. The new sector provides a
specialist zone for business events suppliers to connect with buyers through
pre-scheduled appointments and business exchanges. IBTM@ATM will also host a
dedicated conference exploring key industry trends, staged on the new Business
Events Stage.
ATM Travel Tech has expanded by more
than 26% this year, reflecting the sector’s increasing integration with
technology and innovation. A new Start-Up and Innovation Zone has been
introduced, showcasing 21 pioneering companies reshaping the future of travel.
The zone also offers an immersive VR experience, allowing visitors to explore
new possibilities and transformative solutions within the travel ecosystem.
Commenting on the opening of ATM 2025, Danielle
Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “From
next-generation technologies and the rise of travel start-ups to the
introduction of IBTM@ATM, this year’s edition of ATM highlights an industry
that is more connected, innovative and resilient than ever before. We are proud
to offer a platform that fosters global collaboration, drives impactful
business opportunities, and helps shape the future of travel.”
ATM
Conference
His Highness
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum was also briefed on the renowned ATM
Conference, which returns this year with more than 200 speakers leading over 70
sessions across the Global Stage, Future Stage, and the newly launched Business
Events Stage. The
conference programme will explore emerging trends, share global best practices,
and discuss strategies to unlock new opportunities while addressing key
industry challenges.
This year’s programme covers a diverse
range of topics, including the future of aviation, emerging trends in
hospitality, climate action initiatives, and the adoption of Artificial
Intelligence (AI) across the sector.
On the first day, Cassie Kozyrkov, CEO
of Kozyr, a leading international expert in AI and Google’s first Chief
Decision Scientist, hosted the opening session on the Future Stage on how the
travel industry can lead in AI adoption.
The second day of the ATM Conference
will feature the annual Ministerial Session, which will explore how tourism
growth can be unlocked through enhanced connectivity. The session will bring
together the Ministers of Tourism from Bahrain and Lebanon, alongside the CEO
of Trip.com, to discuss how infrastructure, innovation and inclusion can build
robust tourism frameworks that empower communities and enhance cross-border
accessibility.
On day three, Paul Griffiths, CEO of
Dubai Airports, will address the Global Stage to examine the future of aviation
in an era of transformation and global disruption. Meanwhile, key findings from
the IBTM World Trends Report will be shared on the Business Events Stage.
The final day will feature in-depth
market insight sessions on Asia Pacific, as well as a dedicated spotlight on
India’s burgeoning tourism sector. A major highlight on closing day will be the
ATM Start-Up Competition, offering a platform for emerging entrepreneurs and
innovators to pitch their ideas and redefine the future of travel.
ATM 2025 forms part of Arabian Travel
Week, a ten-day festival of travel and tourism events held annually in Dubai.
Over its three-decade history, ATM has played a pivotal role in facilitating
over USD2.5 billion in industry deals and advancing the Middle East’s tourism
landscape.
Organised in collaboration with Dubai
World Trade Centre, ATM 2025’s strategic partners include the Dubai Department
of Economy and Tourism (DET) as Destination Partner; Emirates as Official
Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts as Official Hotel Partner; and Al
Rais Travel as Official DMC Partner.
For the latest news and updates from ATM
2025, please visit: https://hub.wtm.com/category/press/atm-press-releases/
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منذ 20 ساعة . News
Middle East business travel spending adapts to global shifts, reaching 6.1% growth in 2025, say experts at IBTM@ATM 2025
·
Business travel in 2025 remains strong, but evolving
factors from economic conditions and budgets to technology, sustainability, and
traveller expectations are reshaping how and why we travel for work
·
Middle East has performed better than any other region
post-COVID, with business travel spending reaching 19.4% higher than pre-COVID
levels
·
IBTM@ATM Business Events Stage at Arabian Travel Market
2025 provides critical insights into the evolving global corporate travel and
MICE landscape
Dubai,
United Arab Emirates, 28 April 2025:
Current trends in business travel spending, changing global economic conditions,
and the increasing impact of regional economic strategies have emerged as
significant forces shaping the future of business travel in the Middle East.
Today,
experts gathered at the new Business Events Stage during the Arabian Travel Market
(ATM) 2025, part of the newly launched IBTM@ATM
Zone, to discuss how regional business travel
spending is adapting in response to these global shifts and to explore the
financial outlook driving strategic developments across the sector.
In
partnership with the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the session
titled State
of the Nation: Navigating the Future of Business Travel in the Middle East
provided a thorough analysis of the market dynamics influencing corporate
travel budgets and decision-making processes today.
Catherine
Logan, Regional Senior Vice President EMEA and APAC, Global Business Travel
Association (GBTA), said: “In general, the
argument for business travel in 2025 is strong, but transformational change
will continue to influence how we travel for work around the world. These
include economic stability, budget factors, how and where we work, implications
of technology, the evolution of sustainability in business travel and the focus
on the traveller.”
Logan
also highlights that sustainably managed business travel is a force for good,
driving progress for businesses, governments, economies and people.
According
to the 2024 GBTA Business Travel Index Outlook
Report, the Middle East accounts for 1.2% of global business travel spend and
has performed better than any other region post-COVID with spend reaching 19.4%
higher than pre-COVID levels. The estimated business travel spending in the
Middle East was $18.1 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1%
in 2025, highlighting the region’s strategic importance in the global corporate
travel and events ecosystem.
Ciaran
Kelly, Managing Director of Middle East & Africa, FCM Travel, said:
“There is a positive outlook for business travel in the region, backed by
trends we are seeing from our customers, surveys, and what our forecasts are
for the year ahead. A lot of the growth is due to the public and private
projects taking place – it is almost impossible to get a seat on a plane from
Dubai to Riyadh, for example, and once you land, hotel availability is limited.
Hotel occupancy across the region is the highest globally, around 70-80% mark
putting a lot of pressure on hotels, but in general, everything is
positive."
Reflecting
on the significance of the session, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME,
Arabian Travel Market, said: "Understanding the shifts in business
travel spending is essential for companies that want to remain competitive and
resilient in a fast-evolving market. Sessions like this at IBTM@ATM are crucial
for providing our attendees with actionable insights and real-world analysis,
empowering them to navigate shifting travel patterns and discover new
opportunities in the Middle East and beyond."
The Business Events Stage at IBTM@ATM will continue to explore emerging trends across business travel, MICE, and corporate events until Wednesday, 30 April. The sessions will cover various topics, including the integration of AI and future-proofing strategies for business travel, the human connection versus AI in event experiences, new trends in Chinese outbound MICE travel, achieving net zero carbon emissions in the events industry, and advancing climate action through strategic partnerships in business travel, among other topics.
The 32nd
edition of Arabian Travel Market, held under the theme ‘Global Travel:
Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’, will welcome
more than 55,000 travel professionals from 166 countries this week at the Dubai
World Trade Centre (DWTC), reinforcing Dubai’s pivotal role as a centre for
global tourism and business collaboration.
Held
in conjunction with DWTC, ATM’s strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET),
Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels &
Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.
The latest ATM news stories are available at https://hub.wtm.com/category/press/atm-press-releases/.
-Ends-
For more information, log on to wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html.
Now in its 32nd year, Arabian
Travel Market (ATM) is the leading international travel and tourism
event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. Held
annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024 spanned 12 halls, making it
the largest edition to date. The event attracted over 47,000 attendees, more
than 35,000 visitors (including 6,000+ high-value buyers) and over 2,550
exhibitors and representatives from over 161 countries. In 2025, ATM will
expand to 13 halls, growing across all sectors, and will continue to be a
crucial gathering for the global travel and tourism industry. Arabian Travel
Market is part of Arabian Travel Week. #ATMDubai
ATM takes place from 28 April to 1 May
2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai.
https://www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html
Arabian Travel Week is a week-long festival of
events from 28 April to 4 May, alongside Arabian Travel Market 2025. Providing
a renewed focus for the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector, it includes
Start-Up Competition, Influencers' Event, GBTA Business Travel Forums, and ATM
Travel Tech. The event also features ATM Buyer Networking and a series of
country forums.
https://www.wtm.com/arabian-travel-week/en-gb.html
About RX
RX
is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise,
data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and
organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX
hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an
inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive
by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a
global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for
professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.
About RELX
RELX
is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for
professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180
countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000
people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the
parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock
exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New
York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors
World Travel
Market (WTM) Portfolio
comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The
events are Arabian Travel Market, WTM London, WTM Latin America and WTM Africa.
WTM London
is the world’s most influential travel & tourism event for the global
travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a
macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces
shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and
high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and
accelerate business outcomes.
Next event: 4 to 6 November 2025 at
ExCel London
WTM Latin America is held annually in São Paulo and attracts more than 29,000
tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers a qualified
content combined with networking and business opportunities. In its most recent
edition, in 2024, WTM Latin America maintained its focus on the effective
generation of business and managed to secure the early scheduling of more than
six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents, and
exhibitors. WTM Latin America contents are available in English, Spanish and Portuguese.
Next event: 14 – 16 April 2025, Expo Center Norte, São Paulo,
Brasil
WTM
Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town,
South Africa. In 2022, WTM Africa facilitated more than 7 thousand unique
pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 7% compared to 2019 and
welcomed more than 6 thousand visitors (unaudited), the same number as in 2019.
Next event: 9 to 11 April 2025 – Cape
Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/
About ATW Connect: Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a
virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and
insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in
our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the
travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and
outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the
MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology.
WTM
Global Hub, is
the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry
professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and
knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the
challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into
its global network of experts to create content for the hub. https://hub.wtm.com/
منذ يوم . News