GCC Tourism Growth Joins Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, and Vietnam in Boosting Asian Presence at ATM 2026 : What It Means for Your Travel Plans

As the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 approaches, set to take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 4-7 May 2026, the tourism sector is witnessing a notable shift. Asian destinations are making a significant mark on the exhibition floor, with a 13.95% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in participation from Asia-Pacific exhibitors from 2024 to 2026. This surge in Asian involvement at ATM mirrors the GCC region’s increasing outbound travel to Asia, creating a dynamic exchange between the two regions.

Asia’s Growing Role in GCC Outbound Travel

Among the most sought-after destinations for GCC travelers, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Japan continue to lead the way. Their appeal is driven by robust air connectivity and increasingly competitive airfares, which make these Asian cities and countries more accessible than ever before.

Southeast Asia, in particular, has emerged as a fast-growing market for the GCC, with the region expected to see a 5.9% increase in air passenger traffic in 2025, as forecasted by the Airports Council International (ACI) World. This growth comes as part of the larger expansion of Middle Eastern tourism toward the Asia-Pacific region, spurred by factors like affordable travel options and greater awareness of Asia’s diverse cultural offerings.

Thailand: A Standout Destination for GCC Travellers

At ATM 2026, Thailand is expected to be one of the standout performers. According to the 2025 ATM Travel Trends Report, Thailand is projected to see 12% year-on-year growth in tourism from the UAE and the broader GCC region. By 2030, the country is set to capture the second-largest volume of outbound leisure nights from the Middle East, a sign of its growing prominence in the region’s travel plans.

“Thailand is the standout performer,” said Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director of ATM, “with over ten million extra tourism nights expected by 2030. It will continue to be one of the top destinations for GCC travelers, as preferences shift and more destination choices open up.”

Increased Connectivity and Affordability Drive Growth

Several factors are contributing to the increased participation of Asian exhibitors at ATM 2026, including improved air connectivity and the affordability of travel. As airlines continue to expand their routes and increase flight frequencies between the GCC and Asia, travelers are enjoying greater access to top Asian cities and emerging destinations.

The GCC region is also home to some of the world’s highest-value tourists, with travelers spending 11 times the global average when visiting Asia, according to research by Reso. This makes the Middle Eastern outbound market an increasingly important demographic for Asia-Pacific tourism.

ATM 2026: A Platform for Asian Destinations

Tourism boards from key Asian destinations are well-represented at ATM 2026, including the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Cambodia Tourism Marketing and Promotion Board, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Korea Tourism Organization, and many others. The growing presence of these organizations is a clear reflection of the increasing importance of GCC travelers for the Asian tourism market.

Exhibitors already confirmed for the event include prominent hotel chains such as Hilton Hotels of Malaysia, Conrad Singapore Orchard, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, and ROKU KYOTO, among others. These participants showcase the breadth of tourism offerings available for GCC travelers, from luxury resorts to cultural experiences, across the Asia-Pacific region.

Economic Ties Between GCC and Asia Support Travel Flows

In addition to growing tourism demand, the strengthening economic ties between the Gulf and Asia are further fueling travel flows. Trade between the two regions is expected to reach $802 billion by 2030, making Asia the largest trading bloc for the GCC by 2028, according to insights from Asia House, a global think tank. This economic growth further supports the travel sector, creating more opportunities for both leisure and business travel between the GCC and Asia.

The Future of the Asia–GCC Travel Corridor

To delve deeper into these trends, ATM 2026 will feature a panel session titled “Asia–GCC Corridor: The Next Great Growth Engine”. Experts will discuss how and why GCC premium spenders are driving one of the world’s most lucrative travel corridors. The session will explore the opportunities and challenges for both regions and examine how tourism businesses can capitalize on the growing demand for cross-regional travel.

Expanding Opportunities in the Travel Sector

ATM 2026 will not only highlight the latest trends in GCC to Asia travel but will also provide a platform for exploring broader global travel trends and innovations. The event will offer market outlooks, technology showcases, and destination briefings, all designed to help industry professionals understand the evolving travel landscape and find new opportunities for growth.growth opportunities

The growing presence of Asian exhibitors at ATM 2026 reinforces the importance of the Asia-GCC travel corridor, with both regions now more interconnected than ever before. As more destinations across Asia emerge as key travel hotspots for GCC tourists, ATM 2026 promises to be a pivotal event in shaping the future of tourism between the two regions.

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Taj Weligama’s Luxury Beachfront Experience in Sri Lanka: Why You Can’t Miss This New Resort!

In an exciting new development for Sri Lanka’s hospitality scene, Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the signing of a Taj hotel in Weligama, a serene coastal town located along Sri Lanka’s southern shores. The Taj Weligama will be a sprawling beachfront resort, offering sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and providing guests with the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility. This new project will feature 220 keys, including 80 luxury apartments, making it a top destination for both short getaways and longer stays in this idyllic part of the world.

Scheduled to open in the near future, Taj Weligama will bring world-class hospitality to the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, known for its pristine beaches, calm waters, and laid-back atmosphere. It promises to be the ultimate escape for travelers seeking the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and wellness in one of the country’s most picturesque locations.

A Beachfront Resort with World-Class Amenities

The Taj Weligama resort will feature a range of exceptional facilities, designed to cater to both leisure and business travelers. Its location directly on the beachfront offers guests the chance to enjoy stunning ocean views and easy access to the warm sands of Weligama Bay. The resort will include an all-day dining restaurant, offering a variety of cuisines, as well as two specialty restaurants that will serve signature dishes from around the world. Guests can also unwind at the beach bar and grill, or enjoy a drink at the bar and lounge. For those looking for something lighter, there will also be a deli serving fresh and delicious bites.

The Taj Weligama will also emphasize wellness, with the renowned Taj J Wellness Circle offering holistic remedies and a range of wellness therapies designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. In addition to this, guests can relax and indulge at the resort’s state-of-the-art gym, or take a dip in the swimming pool. Families traveling with children will also appreciate the kids’ playroom and entertainment zone, which are perfect for keeping younger guests entertained while the adults unwind.

Event and Conference Facilities

Beyond its focus on leisure and wellness, Taj Weligama will offer versatile venues for events and social gatherings. The resort boasts a banquet hall and convention facilities that span over 9,000 square feet, making it an ideal location for conferences, business meetings, and large-scale events. The resort will also offer several meeting rooms and exclusive lawns, which can be used for outdoor events such as weddings, parties, and other social functions.

This makes Taj Weligama a premier destination for both business and leisure travelers. With its versatile event spaces, the hotel is set to become a key venue for corporate events, conferences, and high-profile social gatherings, all within a stunning natural setting.

Exploring Weligama: A Coastal Gem

Weligama is renowned for its crescent-shaped bay, which is ideal for surfing and other water activities. The town’s surf-friendly waters attract wave enthusiasts from around the world, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in surfing. But beyond the waves, Weligama is also known for its relaxed coastal character, making it a great place to unwind, enjoy local seafood, and soak in the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s southern coastline.

Visitors to Weligama can explore the surrounding areas, visit local markets, or take part in boat tours to see nearby islands and fishing villages. For those interested in cultural experiences, there are also nearby temples and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Whether you’re looking to surf the waves, relax by the beach, or explore the local culture, Weligama offers something for everyone.

The Development of Taj Weligama

The project is being developed in collaboration with Beryll Group, a diversified real estate development and infrastructure group with a strong presence in India and select international markets. Beryll Group has a proven track record of delivering design-led, complex projects across hospitality, healthcare, commercial, and institutional sectors. Their expertise in creating long-term assets that contribute meaningfully to their destinations aligns perfectly with Taj’s mission to deliver world-class hospitality and experiences.

The opening of Taj Weligama represents an exciting step in the expansion of IHCL’s presence in Sri Lanka, adding to the company’s impressive portfolio of luxury hotels in the region. With its stunning location, state-of-the-art facilities, and world-class service, Taj Weligama is poised to become a key destination for travelers seeking luxury in one of Sri Lanka’s most charming coastal towns.

A New Era for Sri Lankan Tourism

The arrival of Taj Weligama marks a significant addition to the tourism landscape of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, an area that has long been known for its breathtaking natural beauty and growing appeal among international travelers. With its luxurious accommodations, wellness offerings, and event spaces, Taj Weligama will enhance the appeal of the region as a top destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

As Sri Lanka continues to grow as a must-visit destination for global travelers, the opening of Taj Weligama signals a new era in the country’s hospitality sector, offering the highest standards of luxury while embracing the local culture and environment.

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ASEAN Now Joins the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia in Reviving Talks for a Unified Tourist Visa : Heres What You Need to Know

Southeast Asia is one of the most popular destinations for international tourists, with its rich history, stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and diverse cultures. But now, the region is taking steps to make it even easier for travellers to explore its ten member states with a new proposal—a unified ASEAN common tourist visa.

At the ASEAN Tourism Forum held in Cebu, Philippines, in January 2026, tourism ministers from Southeast Asia met to discuss this long-debated initiative. First raised in the early 2010s, the idea aims to simplify travel between ASEAN countries by allowing visitors to move freely across the region with a single visa.

The common tourist visa would be similar to Europe’s Schengen Area, which enables travelers to visit multiple countries with one visa. If successfully implemented, the ASEAN common visa could greatly benefit international tourists, making it easier to travel between countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

The Concept: A Visa for the Region

ASEAN, comprising Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, is a top destination for tourists seeking a diverse travel experience. With cultural treasures, world-famous landmarks, and pristine beaches, the region offers something for every traveler.

The proposal for a single visa has been an ongoing topic of discussion among ASEAN countries for over a decade. The idea is to introduce a system where travelers can visit multiple ASEAN nations with one visa, thus boosting the region’s competitiveness in global tourism markets.

Southeast Asia has always been an appealing travel hub, but the current system requires tourists to apply for individual visas for each country they visit. A unified visa system would streamline the process, saving travelers time and effort. This could encourage more people to explore the region, increasing tourism numbers and benefiting the local economies.

Challenges to the Proposal

However, creating a single visa for all ASEAN members is not without its challenges. One of the major hurdles is the wide variation in immigration policies and security regulations among the member countries. Each ASEAN nation has its own entry requirements, making it difficult to agree on a standard visa process that would work for all.

In addition, differing levels of administrative capacities across the region could complicate the implementation of such a system. Some countries may face difficulties in ensuring the necessary infrastructure and resources to manage a common visa program.

Bilateral relations between member states could also pose a challenge, as sensitive political and diplomatic issues might influence how countries approach the idea of a unified visa.

Despite these challenges, there is broad support within ASEAN for increasing regional tourism integration. The proposed common visa would allow foreign visitors to easily hop between Southeast Asian destinations without the bureaucratic hassle of multiple visa applications.

ASEAN’s Commitment to Regional Tourism

During the ASEAN Tourism Forum, Philippine Secretary of Tourism Christina Frasco reaffirmed the commitment of ASEAN members to promoting the region as a unified destination. She emphasized that the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP) prioritizes “seamless access” and greater accessibility, making the unified visa a key component of the plan.

“We are looking at options for visa-free access and a unified visa as part of our broader vision for the region,” Frasco stated. “We want to present Southeast Asia as a connected, seamless destination that appeals to global travelers.”

The common visa idea has been floated before, but it has never materialized due to the complexities involved. This time, however, there seems to be renewed interest in pushing the initiative forward, especially with the rise of regional tourism integration and the desire to keep up with global travel trends.

Tourism Growth in the Philippines: A Sign of Progress

As the Philippines hosts the ASEAN Tourism Forum, it’s also seeing improvements in its tourism sector. In 2025, the country welcomed approximately 5.87 million international tourists, despite challenges such as natural disasters and budget cuts. The total number of visitors, including returning overseas Filipinos, exceeded 6.48 million.

Though these figures are still below pre-pandemic levels, the growth in visitor numbers is a promising sign for the country’s tourism industry. Spending by international visitors reached nearly 694 billion Philippine pesos, highlighting strong consumer spending.

Christina Frasco pointed out that the Philippines’ tourism sector remains resilient, despite global uncertainties and the challenges of rebuilding post-pandemic. She emphasized that improved connectivity within ASEAN and better travel routes could drive growth in the medium term.

A Boost for Regional Tourism

The common ASEAN visa could act as a game-changer for Southeast Asia. By simplifying travel and making the region more accessible to international tourists, ASEAN could enhance its appeal as a single travel destination. Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia could see an uptick in visitors, encouraging more people to explore the region and contribute to local economies.

In addition to the tourism benefits, a unified visa could enhance cultural exchange and promote deeper regional cooperation. As the proposal moves forward, it will be interesting to see how ASEAN countries navigate the challenges and work together to create a visa system that benefits both tourists and member states.

For now, travelers eager to explore Southeast Asia can keep an eye on the developments of the ASEAN common visa and look forward to what might become a significant step in the region’s tourism future.

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New Visa Rules for Thailand: What Every Traveler Needs to Know Now

Thailand has long been one of Asia’s most sought-after tourist destinations, known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich history. But the Thai government is taking its efforts to promote tourism to new heights in 2026 with a series of visa reforms designed to streamline travel and enhance the overall experience for visitors.

As of February 2026, the country is continuing its visa reform initiative that began in 2024, which includes new entry measures, an extended stay option, and a move toward increased digitalization of travel processes. These changes are aimed at supporting the tourism sector, simplifying the visa process, and encouraging longer stays from travelers all over the globe.

The 60-Day Visa Exemption: Thailand’s Key Travel Asset
At the heart of these changes is the 60-day visa exemption program that was introduced in mid-2024. This scheme, which covers nationals from 93 countries and territories, allows visitors to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days for tourism or business purposes. For many travelers, this has been a game-changer, eliminating the need for a traditional visa and making it easier to enjoy Thailand’s beautiful beaches, lively cities, and cultural landmarks.

As part of its ongoing visa reforms, the Thai Cabinet has affirmed its commitment to continuing this open-entry policy. However, the government is also keenly aware of some challenges that have emerged. Authorities have noted cases of visitors abusing the extended 60-day exemption, with some travelers entering and re-entering the country repeatedly, which has raised concerns about residency rules and border security.

To address this, the Thai government is considering possible revisions to the exemption, such as limiting the number of consecutive entries or shortening the duration of the exemption. The goal is to ensure the integrity of the program while still supporting tourism.

Visa on Arrival: Expanding Access
Alongside the 60-day visa exemption, Thailand has expanded its Visa on Arrival (VoA) system, which is available to nationals from 31 countries and territories. This system has already been implemented in its initial phase, offering tourists a quick and easy option for entering Thailand without a traditional visa.

Thailand is also considering expanding the VoA to an additional eight countries in the coming months, further broadening access for travelers. This step reflects the country’s recognition of the increasing importance of global mobility and its commitment to making travel to Thailand more accessible and flexible.

New Visas for Remote Workers and International Students
In response to the rise of remote work and the growing trend of “workcations,” Thailand has introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV). This visa is tailored for remote workers and international professionals who wish to live and work in Thailand for extended periods. The DTV aligns with Thailand’s strategy to attract professionals looking to combine work with leisure, particularly in the wake of the global shift toward flexible work arrangements.

Additionally, the Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa has been introduced, allowing foreign students to combine academic study with employment. This visa opens up more opportunities for students to gain work experience while furthering their education in Thailand, benefiting both the local economy and international students.

Digital Transformation: Streamlining Travel
Thailand is also leading the way in digitalizing travel and visa processes to enhance convenience for tourists. As of January 2025, all 94 Thai embassies and consulates globally began offering an e-Visa service, which allows travelers to apply for visas online without needing to visit a consulate in person. This expansion has made the visa application process quicker and more efficient, saving time for travelers and simplifying the overall experience.

Along with the e-Visa, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system has been introduced, which replaces the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. Operational since May 2025, the TDAC allows travelers to submit their arrival details online up to 72 hours before entering Thailand, further speeding up the border processing time and strengthening data collection.

A New Era for Travel to Thailand
For travelers planning to visit Thailand in 2026, these updates will make the journey smoother, more efficient, and more flexible. The reforms are part of a broader effort to support the tourism sector and maintain Thailand’s status as a top global destination. With the government’s focus on attracting longer stays and enhancing the overall visitor experience, the future of travel to Thailand looks brighter than ever.

So whether you’re planning a beach getaway in Phuket, a cultural exploration of Chiang Mai, or a business trip to Bangkok, the Thai government’s visa reforms make it easier than ever to experience the best that Thailand has to offer.

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