Latest news with #ExpediaTAAP
Hi Dubai
4 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
As 60% of UAE travellers rely on AI to plan trips, human connection remains vital
With the global meetings and events industry projected to exceed USD 2.3 trillion by 2032, demand for intelligent tech solutions is accelerating Experts from the technology, hospitality and events industries met at ATM 2025 to explore the growing impact of digital platforms and AI in travel Companies including Sabre, Expedia TAAP and Cvent highlighted the critical role of human insight in building smarter platforms Travel technology is transforming the industry globally, changing the way travellers plan, book, and experience their journeys. According to a recent report by Tourism Economics on behalf of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), 60% of travellers in the UAE trust Artificial Intelligence (AI) to plan every aspect of their trips, compared to 48% of travellers in other countries, with this figure predicted to rise as technology becomes more embedded into consumer habits. According to the report, AI is becoming a key tool for travellers planning trips to the Middle East. Nearly six in ten have used AI for travel planning, with 21% using it before their most recent trip. As AI adoption grows, it is expected to play an increasing role in delivering personalised recommendations and booking experiences for tech-savvy travellers. The research also confirmed that travel firms are harnessing AI to enhance customer service and drive economic impact. In line with the digital transformation within travel and tourism, ATM 2025 provided a platform for experts across the technology, hospitality and events industries to discuss the implications for human connection as AI-powered tools, personalised service platforms, and data-led design become more prevalent. Speaking during the event, 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 acknowledged that it is vital for the industry to recognise that technology has changed guests' expectations of hospitality providers as they now seek instant gratification and swift responses. This has led to the development of innovative solutions such as SynXis Concierge AI, which uses generative AI to transform customer service for hoteliers, providing immediate, detailed, and accurate responses to specific queries, reducing the reliance on individual staff knowledge and ensuring consistent, high-quality service around the clock. Other examples include Miral's AI concierge, Majd Al, which is utilised at attractions such as Yas Bay Waterfront and Ferrari World Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. The service offers tailored suggestions based on individual preferences, helping visitors maximise their experience. Fellow panellists agreed that human-centric innovation begins with understanding consumer behaviour, with organisations like Almosafer adopting a co-creation approach, developing tools based on customer pain points. Similarly, travel agent platform Expedia TAAP builds technology informed by insights from travel agents themselves, ensuring that its tools are aligned with customer needs and are usable. Meanwhile, the rise of AI in the business events (MICE) sector is delivering significant gains in efficiency and insight. With the global meetings and events industry set to reach USD 945 billion in 2025 and projected to exceed USD 2.3 trillion by 2032, the need for scalable, intelligent tools has never been greater. Data-led personalisation is now critical to driving attendee engagement and loyalty, with AI helping to automate sourcing, translate content in real time, and generate tailored event experiences. However, speakers were united in warning against over-reliance on technology at the expense of authenticity. As AI becomes central to personalising travel experiences and improving operational efficiency, it does not replace human roles but rather reshapes them, encouraging organisations to realign talent towards more meaningful, guest-focused interactions. Ultimately, as event planners and travel providers aim to create experiences that resonate, the consensus remains that human connection must stay central to every digital advancement. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, commented: 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. Reflecting the travel industry's total convergence with technology and innovation, ATM Travel Tech was larger than ever at the 2025 edition, with an increase of over 26% in the number of products showcased. ATM 2026, which takes place from 4-7 May, will build further on this innovation focus, showcasing the latest technologies that are shaping the future of travel. The latest ATM news stories are available here . Register your interest to attend: Register for ATM updates . Enquire to exhibit: Exhibitor Enquiry for Arabian Travel Market . Source: Shamal Communications
Mid East Info
4 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
As 60% of UAE travellers rely on AI to plan trips, human connection remains vital - Middle East Business News and Information
With the global meetings and events industry projected to exceed USD 2.3 trillion by 2032, demand for intelligent tech solutions is accelerating Experts from the technology, hospitality and events industries met at ATM 2025 to explore the growing impact of digital platforms and AI in travel Companies including Sabre, Expedia TAAP and Cvent highlighted the critical role of human insight in building smarter platforms Dubai, United Arab Emirates, August 2025: Travel technology is transforming the industry globally, changing the way travellers plan, book, and experience their journeys. According to a recent report by Tourism Economics on behalf of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), 60% of travellers in the UAE trust Artificial Intelligence (AI) to plan every aspect of their trips, compared to 48% of travellers in other countries, with this figure predicted to rise as technology becomes more embedded into consumer habits. According to the report, AI is becoming a key tool for travellers planning trips to the Middle East. Nearly six in ten have used AI for travel planning, with 21% using it before their most recent trip. As AI adoption grows, it is expected to play an increasing role in delivering personalised recommendations and booking experiences for tech-savvy travellers. The research also confirmed that travel firms are harnessing AI to enhance customer service and drive economic impact. In line with the digital transformation within travel and tourism, ATM 2025 provided a platform for experts across the technology, hospitality and events industries to discuss the implications for human connection as AI-powered tools, personalised service platforms, and data-led design become more prevalent. Speaking during the event, 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 acknowledged that it is vital for the industry to recognise that technology has changed guests' expectations of hospitality providers as they now seek instant gratification and swift responses. This has led to the development of innovative solutions such as SynXis Concierge AI, which uses generative AI to transform customer service for hoteliers, providing immediate, detailed, and accurate responses to specific queries, reducing the reliance on individual staff knowledge and ensuring consistent, high-quality service around the clock. Other examples include Miral's AI concierge, Majd Al, which is utilised at attractions such as Yas Bay Waterfront and Ferrari World Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. The service offers tailored suggestions based on individual preferences, helping visitors maximise their experience. Fellow panellists agreed that human-centric innovation begins with understanding consumer behaviour, with organisations like Almosafer adopting a co-creation approach, developing tools based on customer pain points. Similarly, travel agent platform Expedia TAAP builds technology informed by insights from travel agents themselves, ensuring that its tools are aligned with customer needs and are usable. Meanwhile, the rise of AI in the business events (MICE) sector is delivering significant gains in efficiency and insight. With the global meetings and events industry set to reach USD 945 billion in 2025 and projected to exceed USD 2.3 trillion by 2032, the need for scalable, intelligent tools has never been greater. Data-led personalisation is now critical to driving attendee engagement and loyalty, with AI helping to automate sourcing, translate content in real time, and generate tailored event experiences. However, speakers were united in warning against over-reliance on technology at the expense of authenticity. As AI becomes central to personalising travel experiences and improving operational efficiency, it does not replace human roles but rather reshapes them, encouraging organisations to realign talent towards more meaningful, guest-focused interactions. Ultimately, as event planners and travel providers aim to create experiences that resonate, the consensus remains that human connection must stay central to every digital advancement. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market , commented: '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.' Reflecting the travel industry's total convergence with technology and innovation, ATM Travel Tech was larger than ever at the 2025 edition, with an increase of over 26% in the number of products showcased. ATM 2026, which takes place from 4-7 May, will build further on this innovation focus, showcasing the latest technologies that are shaping the future of travel. Now in its 33 rd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading global platform driving growth and innovation across every sector of travel and tourism. Held annually in Dubai – the gateway to global travel and tourism with its unmatched connectivity – ATM is where the energy of opportunity comes to life. More than just an event, ATM is a dynamic hub for industry communities, with forums, experiences, and networking that continue well beyond the show floor over the week. Now in a period of rapid expansion, ATM has grown 16% year on year, attracting over 55,000 travel professionals from 166 countries. 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. 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 World Travel Market WTM portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are: 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. WTM Latin America takes place annually in the city of São Paulo and attracts around 20,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers qualified content together with networking and business opportunities. In this its ninth edition – there have been eight face-to-face events along with a 100% virtual one, which was held in 2021 – WTM Latin America continued to focus on effective business generation, and achieved the advance booking of six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents and exhibitors in 2022. 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. 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.
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
As 60% of UAE travellers rely on AI to plan trips, human connection remains vital
Experts from the technology, hospitality and events industries met at ATM 2025 to explore the growing impact of digital platforms and AI in travel Companies including Sabre, Expedia TAAP and Cvent highlighted the critical role of human insight in building smarter platforms Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Travel technology is transforming the industry globally, changing the way travellers plan, book, and experience their journeys. According to a recent report by Tourism Economics on behalf of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), 60% of travellers in the UAE trust Artificial Intelligence (AI) to plan every aspect of their trips, compared to 48% of travellers in other countries, with this figure predicted to rise as technology becomes more embedded into consumer habits. According to the report, AI is becoming a key tool for travellers planning trips to the Middle East. Nearly six in ten have used AI for travel planning, with 21% using it before their most recent trip. As AI adoption grows, it is expected to play an increasing role in delivering personalised recommendations and booking experiences for tech-savvy travellers. The research also confirmed that travel firms are harnessing AI to enhance customer service and drive economic impact. In line with the digital transformation within travel and tourism, ATM 2025 provided a platform for experts across the technology, hospitality and events industries to discuss the implications for human connection as AI-powered tools, personalised service platforms, and data-led design become more prevalent. Speaking during the event, 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 acknowledged that it is vital for the industry to recognise that technology has changed guests' expectations of hospitality providers as they now seek instant gratification and swift responses. This has led to the development of innovative solutions such as SynXis Concierge AI, which uses generative AI to transform customer service for hoteliers, providing immediate, detailed, and accurate responses to specific queries, reducing the reliance on individual staff knowledge and ensuring consistent, high-quality service around the clock. Other examples include Miral's AI concierge, Majd Al, which is utilised at attractions such as Yas Bay Waterfront and Ferrari World Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. The service offers tailored suggestions based on individual preferences, helping visitors maximise their experience. Fellow panellists agreed that human-centric innovation begins with understanding consumer behaviour, with organisations like Almosafer adopting a co-creation approach, developing tools based on customer pain points. Similarly, travel agent platform Expedia TAAP builds technology informed by insights from travel agents themselves, ensuring that its tools are aligned with customer needs and are usable. Meanwhile, the rise of AI in the business events (MICE) sector is delivering significant gains in efficiency and insight. With the global meetings and events industry set to reach USD 945 billion in 2025 and projected to exceed USD 2.3 trillion by 2032, the need for scalable, intelligent tools has never been greater. Data-led personalisation is now critical to driving attendee engagement and loyalty, with AI helping to automate sourcing, translate content in real time, and generate tailored event experiences. However, speakers were united in warning against over-reliance on technology at the expense of authenticity. As AI becomes central to personalising travel experiences and improving operational efficiency, it does not replace human roles but rather reshapes them, encouraging organisations to realign talent towards more meaningful, guest-focused interactions. Ultimately, as event planners and travel providers aim to create experiences that resonate, the consensus remains that human connection must stay central to every digital advancement. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, commented: '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.' Reflecting the travel industry's total convergence with technology and innovation, ATM Travel Tech was larger than ever at the 2025 edition, with an increase of over 26% in the number of products showcased. ATM 2026, which takes place from 4-7 May, will build further on this innovation focus, showcasing the latest technologies that are shaping the future of travel. Now in its 33rd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading global platform driving growth and innovation across every sector of travel and tourism. Held annually in Dubai – the gateway to global travel and tourism with its unmatched connectivity – ATM is where the energy of opportunity comes to life. More than just an event, ATM is a dynamic hub for industry communities, with forums, experiences, and networking that continue well beyond the show floor over the week. Now in a period of rapid expansion, ATM has grown 16% year on year, attracting over 55,000 travel professionals from 166 countries. The next edition of ATM will take place in Dubai from 4–7 May 2026. 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. 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 World Travel Market (WTM) portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are: 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 takes place annually in the city of São Paulo and attracts around 20,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers qualified content together with networking and business opportunities. In this its ninth edition – there have been eight face-to-face events along with a 100% virtual one, which was held in 2021 – WTM Latin America continued to focus on effective business generation, and achieved the advance booking of six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents and exhibitors in 2022. Next event: 14 to 16 April 2026 – Expo Center Norte, SP, Brazil. 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: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town 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.
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
EXPEDIA GROUP CELEBRATES GLOBAL TRAVEL ADVISOR DAY AS A PART OF ONGOING INVESTMENT IN TRAVEL ADVISORS
Expedia Group hosts a series of worldwide events to commend its travel advisor partners. Expedia Travel Agent Affiliate Program (TAAP) expands to the U.A.E., giving more travel advisors access to the booking platform. Expedia Group rolls out ways for advisors to maximize earnings and new flexible payment methods. SEATTLE, May 07, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Expedia Group is celebrating Global Travel Advisor Day by hosting several events across the world to recognize and show appreciation for its Expedia TAAP travel advisor partners and the vital role they play in the travel ecosystem. To celebrate, Expedia Group is organizing exclusive gatherings, including breakfasts, lunches, and evening receptions, across key markets including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, the U.K., Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, China, and Japan. These events serve as a dedicated moment to recognize travel advisors, express gratitude for their contributions, and share exciting updates. Expedia Group will also showcase new products and enhancements to its Expedia TAAP global booking platform, which connects travel advisors to its extensive portfolio of hotels, vacation rentals, flights, packages, car rentals, and activities. "Global Travel Advisor Day is an opportunity for Expedia Group to celebrate and support travel advisors worldwide," said Robin Lawther, Vice President of Expedia TAAP. "With today's announcement, we're reinforcing our commitment by expanding into new markets and launching initiatives that help advisors attract customers, personalize experiences, and grow their businesses. By investing in tools that improve cash flow management and create new revenue opportunities, we're empowering them to thrive in an evolving industry." Expanding supply and launching to new markets Expedia TAAP advisors in the U.S. point of sale can now book Southwest flights, further enhancing the platform's value. With multiple connectivity sources including GDS, direct airline connections, and NDC, advisors can effortlessly search, compare, and book flights. Additional perks like bundled packages provide travelers with even more flexibility. As demand continues to rise in a thriving travel market, Expedia TAAP is expanding its presence in the U.A.E., strengthening its support for travel advisors in the region. This expansion reflects the company's commitment to empowering Middle Eastern partners with access to a vast travel inventory and unlocking new revenue opportunities. Maximizing earnings and flexible payment options To further empower travel advisors, Expedia TAAP has introduced the agency service charge to majority points of sale, allowing advisors to add a discretionary fee to lodging bookings. This feature helps advisors get compensated, on top of regular commission, for their expertise when the booking is made, without requiring a separate transaction.
Business Wire
07-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
EXPEDIA GROUP CELEBRATES GLOBAL TRAVEL ADVISOR DAY AS A PART OF ONGOING INVESTMENT IN TRAVEL ADVISORS
SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Expedia Group is celebrating Global Travel Advisor Day by hosting several events across the world to recognize and show appreciation for its Expedia TAAP travel advisor partners and the vital role they play in the travel ecosystem. To celebrate, Expedia Group is organizing exclusive gatherings, including breakfasts, lunches, and evening receptions, across key markets including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, the U.K., Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, China, and Japan. These events serve as a dedicated moment to recognize travel advisors, express gratitude for their contributions, and share exciting updates. Expedia Group will also showcase new products and enhancements to its Expedia TAAP global booking platform, which connects travel advisors to its extensive portfolio of hotels, vacation rentals, flights, packages, car rentals, and activities. 'Global Travel Advisor Day is an opportunity for Expedia Group to celebrate and support travel advisors worldwide,' said Robin Lawther, Vice President of Expedia TAAP. 'With today's announcement, we're reinforcing our commitment by expanding into new markets and launching initiatives that help advisors attract customers, personalize experiences, and grow their businesses. By investing in tools that improve cash flow management and create new revenue opportunities, we're empowering them to thrive in an evolving industry.' Expanding supply and launching to new markets Expedia TAAP advisors in the U.S. point of sale can now book Southwest flights, further enhancing the platform's value. With multiple connectivity sources including GDS, direct airline connections, and NDC, advisors can effortlessly search, compare, and book flights. Additional perks like bundled packages provide travelers with even more flexibility. As demand continues to rise in a thriving travel market, Expedia TAAP is expanding its presence in the U.A.E., strengthening its support for travel advisors in the region. This expansion reflects the company's commitment to empowering Middle Eastern partners with access to a vast travel inventory and unlocking new revenue opportunities. Maximizing earnings and flexible payment options To further empower travel advisors, Expedia TAAP has introduced the agency service charge to majority points of sale, allowing advisors to add a discretionary fee to lodging bookings. This feature helps advisors get compensated, on top of regular commission, for their expertise when the booking is made, without requiring a separate transaction. Expedia TAAP has long offered deferred payments, giving travel advisors the flexibility to book now and pay later, helping them manage cash flow. Building on this, new enhancements now allow advisors to book accommodations up to 365 days in advance and make post-booking itinerary changes, offering even greater control and convenience. Additionally, to meet the diverse payment preferences of global markets, bank transfers are now accepted on Expedia TAAP in regions where this method is favored. On Global Travel Advisor Day and beyond, Expedia TAAP continues to prioritize travel advisors and agencies by consistently investing in improvements and offering ongoing support. Learn more at About Expedia TAAP Expedia Travel Agent Affiliate Program (TAAP), a division of Expedia Group, is the trusted global retail booking platform that connects travel advisors to Expedia Group's global portfolio of hotels, vacation rentals, flights, packages, car rentals, and activities. Established with the mission to empower travel agencies by granting them access to Expedia's worldwide travel inventory, Expedia TAAP remains dedicated to fostering the growth of travel agencies through its cutting-edge technology, diverse travel supply, impressive rates, and comprehensive support services. About Expedia Group Expedia Group, Inc. brands power travel for everyone, everywhere through our global platform. Driven by the core belief that travel is a force for good, we help people experience the world in new ways and build lasting connections. We provide industry-leading technology solutions to fuel partner growth and success, while facilitating memorable experiences for travelers. Our organization is made up of three pillars: Expedia Product & Technology, focused on the group's product and technical strategy and offerings; Expedia Brands, housing all our consumer brands; and Expedia for Business, consisting of business-to-business solutions and relationships throughout the travel ecosystem.
