• ATM 2016 to introduce dedicated Wellness & Spa Lounge as health-focused tourists spend 130% more than regular travelers and MENA region second-fastest growing global market
• Value of wellness trips across MENA region hit AED 26.8 billion in 2014 according to Global Wellness Institute report
By the end of 2015, the UAE spa industry is forecast to achieve revenues of AED 5.5 billion, rising to AED 8.3 billion by 2017, making it one of the most valuable tourism-related industries in the Middle East, with the MENA region the second fastest-growing market in the world for spas after Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI).
To capitalise on this burgeoning sector, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2016 will introduce a dedicated Wellness & Spa Lounge, exclusively for 25 exhibitors representing some of the world’s most recognised health and wellness hospitality destinations.
According to GWI’s 2014 Global Spa and Wellness Economy Monitor report, the UAE will top spa growth in the region by 2017, more than doubling current business volume with 17.9% annual growth since 2012.
“In our research we found that across all markets, wellness tourism is exceptionally popular, with in excess of 9% year-on-year growth forecasted for the next two years, which is a staggering 50% faster than overall global tourism,” said Nadege Noblet-Segers, Exhibition Manager, Arabian Travel Market, which takes place at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre, on 25-28 April 2016.
“This prompted us to design a dedicated space with seminar sessions focused exclusively on industry topics. ATM Wellness & Spa Lounge will be working in association with Spafinder Wellness 365™, the leading consumer resource for wellness travel and the largest marketing and incentives company for the wellness industry, to offer suppliers an exclusive and convenient platform to meet new contacts and conduct business,” she added.
