Honoring the most impressive exhibitor displays, the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 Best Stand Awards were presented during the event’s third day. Experience Abu Dhabi emerged as the winner of the Best Stand Design Award in the over 150m2 category, impressing judges with its fluid design, innovative greenery incorporation, and exceptional visibility on the show floor.
In the 50-150m2 category, ExploreTECH’s slick two-storey concept and dedication to promoting partner startups earned them the top spot. Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s traditional yet vibrant layout and effective space utilization secured them the Best Stand Design Award in the under 50m2 category.
Qiddiya Investment Company’s stand was recognized with the inaugural Best Use of Technology Award, showcasing interactive digital recreations that transported attendees to the planned megaproject in Saudi Arabia. Sustainability was a key focus for AlUla, which meticulously reused materials, integrated QR codes for information sharing, offset stand emissions, and pledged to plant a tree for each visitor engagement, earning them the Sustainable Stand Award.
The Best Stand for Doing Business Award went to the Saudi Tourism Authority, whose stand effectively highlighted multiple destinations with distinct meeting areas, cultural zones, and ample information points. flydubai’s innovative design, aptly named Best Stand Feature, cleverly played with perspective, creating the illusion of flying while resembling aeroplane wings from another angle.
Emirates received a highly commended recognition in the Best Stand Design Award (over 150m2) category, with a stand that exuded an open and inviting atmosphere, allowing attendees to enter from any direction. The judging panel included industry experts: Sarah Duignan, Director of Client Relationships at STR; Mo Elhadi, Account Manager MEA at STR; Otag Fida, Senior Project Manager at DXB Live; Kate Harden-England, Editor at Travolution; and Nehme Shehab, Operations Director at RXME.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME for Arabian Travel Market, expressed her gratitude to the independent judges and congratulated the award winners. The Future Stage at ATM 2024 hosted captivating sessions on accessible travel innovation and the potential of next-generation tourism destinations in 2040. The excitement continues with the ATM Start-Up Pitch Battle, where shortlisted companies Curated Planet, stayK, InterLnkd, and ClearQuote Technologies ME Ltd will showcase their groundbreaking business ideas live on stage.
As the largest ATM to date, the event concludes on its fourth day, having fostered impactful industry discussions, unparalleled networking opportunities, and a focus on the future of travel and tourism talent.
