MENA tourism industry looks to Chinese market recovery as outbound demand remains resilient ahead of ATM 2026
Research from Dragon Trail International, an official research partner of Arabian Travel Market, indicates that while geopolitical events have impacted travel to the Middle East, Chinese outbound tourism remains resilient and recovery opportunities are emerging.
Exclusive market insights will be unveiled during ATM 2026, taking place from 14–17 September at Dubai World Trade Centre
(MENA) tourism industry is preparing for the gradual return of Chinese visitors as outbound travel from China continues to strengthen despite recent geopolitical disruption. According to new research from Dragon Trail International, an Official Research Partner of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), destinations across the region are now focusing on rebuilding traveller confidence and positioning themselves for recovery.
The latest findings show that Chinese outbound travel remains robust. 77 per cent of surveyed travel agents reported higher demand for outbound travel during the first half of 2026 compared with the previous year, while 70% said demand for outbound summer travel had increased year-on-year.
