Google’s first Chief Decision Scientist among speakers at ATM

AI strategies will also be shared by experts from Expedia, Dubai Airports and Cvent

Artificial intelligence (AI) will be a key topic at the upcoming Arabian Travel Market (ATM), taking place from 28 April to 1 May 2025.

The event, which has seen a 104% increase in visitor registrations compared to the same period last year, will gather global AI experts and regional travel leaders to discuss how the technology is changing the face and future of leisure and business travel, from drafting personalised itineraries to improved efficiency.

Taking to the stage on day one is Cassie Kozyrkov, CEO of Kozyr and a globally renowned speaker in AI, who was Google’s first Chief Decision Scientist, leading on its AI-first transformation, and has also worked with Gucci, NASA, Spotify, Meta and GSK on their AI strategies. 

In AI Adoption: From Buzzwords to Business Strategy, Kozyrkov will share how companies in travel can improve their businesses, explore why some organisations struggle, uncover the biggest threats and discuss what AI means for the future. 

“There is a lot of hype around AI, but it can sometimes be difficult to separate the fact from the fiction,” said Kozyrkov. 

“My session will help attendees see the opportunities to apply AI to their business, while also improving their lives and the lives of those around them."

Futurist and travel expert John Duffield will share insights on how AI and smart systems are reshaping the industry by enabling hyper-personalised experiences, seamless connectivity and innovations. He will also discuss how travel providers can act now to prepare for these technologies and leverage the opportunities, and challenges, they present. 

Other AI-related highlights include a panel session on 30 April that features Robin Lawther, VP Expedia TAAP, Expedia Group, which will examine how the industry can address ethical considerations surrounding AI, privacy and the importance of maintaining the human touch. 

The same day, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, will discuss what's next for aviation and AI’s role in the future of flight. He will also share how AI is optimising operations, helping with predictive maintenance and improving the passenger experience.

Hosted by Graham Pope, Vice President, Sales Supplier and Venue Solutions at Cvent, Future-proofing 2025: Trends, AI and Shifts in Business and MICE Travel will take a deep dive into how business event organisers can utilise AI.

Beyond sessions, the event will showcase groundbreaking tech developments, from sophisticated booking solutions to data analysis tools that empower organisations to make informed decisions.

Travel technology exhibitors are up 25% on last year, reflecting the significance of the US$10.7 billion opportunity.

Held under the theme Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity, ATM 2025 is due to welcome 55,000 attendees and will have more than 2,800 exhibitors from 161 global destinations.