Travel technology is steadily changing how people plan, book, and experience their journeys. In the UAE, 60% of travellers say they trust Artificial Intelligence (AI) to manage all aspects of their trips — a higher proportion than the global average of 48%, according to a new report by Tourism Economics for Arabian Travel Market (ATM).
As technology continues to influence consumer habits, AI is becoming increasingly important in travel planning, particularly for trips to the Middle East. The report notes that nearly six in ten travellers have already used AI for planning, with 21% using it before their most recent trip. AI is expected to play a greater role in providing personalised recommendations and booking options.
Travel companies are also using AI to improve customer service and contribute to economic growth. During ATM 2025, experts from technology, hospitality, and events sectors came together to explore how AI-powered tools and data-led design are affecting human connections in travel.
Amy Read, VP Innovation at Sabre Hospitality, said: “It is important to recognise that human connection is at the core of hospitality. When we think about innovation within hospitality, we try to find ways that amplify those key moments, rather than replace them. We want to free up staff time so that they can engage in more meaningful interactions.”
Read also pointed out that evolving guest expectations now demand faster, more responsive services. Solutions like SynXis Concierge AI have been developed to meet this need, using generative AI to offer instant, accurate responses to guest queries—reducing the pressure on individual staff and helping ensure round-the-clock service consistency.
Other regional examples include Miral’s AI concierge, Majd Al, used at Yas Bay Waterfront and Ferrari World Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. It provides tailored suggestions based on visitor preferences, helping improve the overall experience.
Panellists at the event also highlighted the importance of human-centric innovation. Companies such as Almosafer are co-creating tools based on customer feedback, while Expedia TAAP relies on insights from travel agents to shape its technology.
AI is also making an impact in the business events (MICE) sector. With the meetings and events industry expected to reach $945 billion in 2025 and grow to $2.3 trillion by 2032, there is increasing demand for scalable, smart solutions. AI helps streamline operations, translate content, and tailor experiences for attendees—boosting engagement and retention.
However, there was a shared caution across the panel against letting technology overshadow authenticity. As AI becomes more integrated, the industry is being encouraged to shift focus toward enhancing human interaction, not replacing it.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, added, Travel technology is steadily changing how people plan, book, and experience their journeys. In the UAE, 60% of travellers say they trust Artificial Intelligence (AI) to manage all aspects of their trips — a higher proportion than the global average of 48%, according to a new report by Tourism Economics for Arabian Travel Market (ATM).
As technology continues to influence consumer habits, AI is becoming increasingly important in travel planning, particularly for trips to the Middle East. The report notes that nearly six in ten travellers have already used AI for planning, with 21% using it before their most recent trip. AI is expected to play a greater role in providing personalised recommendations and booking options.
Travel companies are also using AI to improve customer service and contribute to economic growth. During ATM 2025, experts from technology, hospitality, and events sectors came together to explore how AI-powered tools and data-led design are affecting human connections in travel.
Amy Read, VP Innovation at Sabre Hospitality, said: “It is important to recognise that human connection is at the core of hospitality. When we think about innovation within hospitality, we try to find ways that amplify those key moments, rather than replace them. We want to free up staff time so that they can engage in more meaningful interactions.”
Read also pointed out that evolving guest expectations now demand faster, more responsive services. Solutions like SynXis Concierge AI have been developed to meet this need, using generative AI to offer instant, accurate responses to guest queries—reducing the pressure on individual staff and helping ensure round-the-clock service consistency.
Other regional examples include Miral’s AI concierge, Majd Al, used at Yas Bay Waterfront and Ferrari World Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. It provides tailored suggestions based on visitor preferences, helping improve the overall experience.
Panellists at the event also highlighted the importance of human-centric innovation. Companies such as Almosafer are co-creating tools based on customer feedback, while Expedia TAAP relies on insights from travel agents to shape its technology.
AI is also making an impact in the business events (MICE) sector. With the meetings and events industry expected to reach $945 billion in 2025 and grow to $2.3 trillion by 2032, there is increasing demand for scalable, smart solutions. AI helps streamline operations, translate content, and tailor experiences for attendees—boosting engagement and retention.
However, there was a shared caution across the panel against letting technology overshadow authenticity. As AI becomes more integrated, the industry is being encouraged to shift focus toward enhancing human interaction, not replacing it.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, added: “When it comes to travel and tourism innovations, the most effective technologies are those that amplify human interactions, improve efficiency and respond directly to customer needs. The industry has a shared commitment to responsible innovation by placing people at the centre of every technology solution.”When it comes to travel and tourism innovations, the most effective technologies are those that amplify human interactions, improve efficiency and respond directly to customer needs. The industry has a shared commitment to responsible innovation by placing people at the centre of every technology solution.”
