Annual trade show Arabian Travel Market will not take place in Dubai this year, organisers have announced.
The event will next take place in May 2021 due concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, which has decimated the travel sector trade show conference calendar this year.
In a statement Reed Travel Exhibitions announced: “In light of the changing global situation relating to the COVID-19 virus, we have continued to monitor the impact it is having not just on our industry, but on society in general.
“Many meetings took place with the Dubai World Trade Centre and we reviewed other options to organise an event in the last quarter.
“However, after consultation with our key stakeholders and after listening to our industry, ultimately it became apparent that the best course of action, and with everyone’s best interests in mind, is to postpone the event to 2021.
Arabian Travel Market will next be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre on May 16-19, 2021, following the holy month of Ramadan and the Eid Al Fitr celebrations.
The Reed announced continued: “Decisions like this are never taken lightly. Discussions took place at the highest level both internally and externally with local and federal government, partners, sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees who all endorsed our evaluation of the current situation and our decision to act once again, without delay.
“We appreciate that this is disappointing news, however everyone’s health and safety is our top priority.
“We are fully aware of the important role that ATM plays for industry professionals right across the Middle East region and beyond, and we believe it is our responsibility to deliver a safe and successful event when we are able to do so.”
In place of this year’s live show ATM said it will A virtual 3vent on June 1-3. This will include webinars, live conference sessions, speed networking events and one-on-one meetings.