DUBAI, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 opened in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, on Monday, bringing together tourism and industry professionals from around the world to discuss artificial intelligence (AI), emerging technologies and the future of personalized travel.

Held under the theme "Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology," the four-day event features the inaugural ATM Travel Tech, with more than 180 companies from 30 countries showcasing applications in AI, virtual and augmented reality, robotics, fintech and green technology.

"The data shows that consumers in the Gulf region are highly tech-savvy and digitally advanced, with diverse age groups and interests," said Siddharth Sudhakar, general manager for MENA at Trip.com.

"We are seeing AI move beyond providing travel inspiration and information into actual trip planning and booking, including activities, flights, hotels and airport transfers," he said.

Sudhakar said China and the Middle East have already begun cooperating in AI and technology in the tourism sector, with further opportunities to combine their respective strengths.

Sudhakar said the two sides could leverage their respective strengths by bringing the Middle East's unique culture and travel experiences to the Chinese market while introducing Chinese technology and AI innovations to the Middle East.

The annual trade exhibition covers tourism destinations, airlines, hotels and travel technology, among other sectors. According to the organizers, ATM 2026 has attracted more than 2,800 exhibitors and over 55,000 tourism professionals.