Technology in the travel industry will come into focus at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) this year, with the four-day event set to highlight tech growth within the industry, as online travel bookings in the MENA region (Middle-East and North of Africa) increased by 10% in 2014.
According to YouGov data (which surveyed 22,686 online respondents, all MENA residents) 31% of those surveyed booked all of their travel requirements online, an increase of 10% over 2013. Of those surveyed 25% used their smartphones to book hotels online while mobile usage to access online travel guides or to book leisure activities rose by 6%, the UAE news website, The National reported.
“Throughout the region, we are witnessing major growth in online bookings as airlines, tour operators and hotels develop ever-more sophisticated digital platforms and social media strategies to ensure they reach out effectively to both existing and potential guests,” said Nadege Noblet, Exhibition Manager of ATM, which will take place at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre, on 4-7 May 2015.
“The industry as a whole is embracing technology like never before, to compete in a digital market place where accessibility and speed are critical to the demands of today’s tech-savvy travelers, especially mobile compatible sites for hotels, tour operators and leisure attractions,” added Noblet.
Spontaneity in the decision making process for choosing a destination has increased by 11% according to the data, thanks to upgraded technology. Paul Richer, senior partner of travel technology consultancy, Genesys, will host two seminar sessions at this year’s exhibition addressing a range of topics including latest developments in mobile, digital marketing and digital distribution issues and how these are impacting the consumer.
