Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 has recognised six exhibitors for stand design, creativity, technology and visitor experience at its Best Stand Awards, held at Dubai World Trade Centre.
An independent panel of industry experts assessed exhibitors
across categories, recognising stands that combined visual impact with
functionality, engagement and spaces designed to support business meetings.
Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) won the Best
Stand Design Award for stands over 150sqm. Judges praised its three-tier
design, which created dedicated areas for meetings and engagement while
accommodating a high volume of business activity.
Rove Hotels received the Best Stand Design Award for stands between 50sqm and 150sqm. Its bold and playful design, attention to detail and television-inspired costumes were highlighted for bringing the brand’s personality to the exhibition floor.
Agilysys won the award for stands under 50sqm, with judges
noting its contemporary design, effective use of space and distinctive visual
presence despite its compact footprint.
Marriott was named Best Stand for Doing Business after
recreating elements of its hotel lobbies and guest spaces. Its layout was
designed to provide a welcoming environment for meetings and business
discussions.
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi won the Best Stand Feature Award for combining immersive technology, cultural design and Emirati craftsmanship. Its interactive dune buggy activation included a screen experience designed to give visitors a taste of dune bashing in Abu Dhabi. The stand also drew inspiration from the emirate’s museums and architectural landmarks, alongside traditional crafts and artistic demonstrations.
HBX Group, exhibiting within ATM Travel Tech, received the
Best Use of Technology Award for a technology-led stand featuring suspended
design elements and an effective use of space.
The judging panel comprised Danielle Azzi Sleiman, Associate
Director, Dubai World Trade Centre; Dave Goodger, Managing Director EMEA,
Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company; Piers Kelly, Group Operations
Director, RX Global; and Sarah Duignan, Director of Client Relationships at
STR.
Danielle Curtis said: “The standard of this year’s stands
has been exceptional, with exhibitors thinking carefully about how their
presence at ATM can create an engaging visitor experience while supporting
meaningful business conversations.
“Across every category, the judges saw excellent examples of
creativity, technology and thoughtful design, from immersive destination
experiences to spaces specifically created to bring people together and
facilitate business. Congratulations to all of our 2026 winners.”
ATM 2026 is being held under the theme “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology,” focusing on how innovation, emerging technologies and new ideas are reshaping the future of travel. -TradeArabia News Service
