Home » SPORTS TOURISM » Arabian Travel Market 2026 Unveils Explosive Growth of Sports Tourism and Its Role in Shaping the Future of Global Travel Published on
February 1, 2026Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, happening from May 4–7 at the iconic Dubai World Trade Centre, is set to focus on the booming sector of sports tourism, which is making waves in the global travel industry. This year’s ATM will showcase how sports tourism is not just a passing trend but a powerful driver of destination growth, offering new economic opportunities and reshaping the future of travel.Recent studies reveal that travellers attending live sports events spend significantly more compared to traditional tourists. In fact, those visiting destinations specifically for sports-related activities are known to spend up to twice as much. This highlights a key shift in the tourism industry, underlining how sports tourism is increasingly becoming a major force in influencing travel demand and contributing to the economic growth of destinations.Sports Tourists: Premium Experiences for High-Value TravellersThe Sports Tourists: Travelling with Passion white paper, produced by GSIQ (Global Sports and Tourism Insights), presents a deep dive into the behaviour and spending habits of sports event tourists. The report reveals that sports tourists are not only high spenders but are also keen on experiencing premium travel services. From luxurious hotels and fine dining to exclusive VIP experiences, sports tourists seek more than just the event itself—they are looking for top-tier, customized travel experiences that enhance their journey.Advertisement AdvertisementThe research points out that 63% of sports tourists are willing to pay extra for superior travel packages, highlighting an opportunity for destinations to offer bespoke services that cater to this high-spending demographic. Furthermore, 41% of respondents are open to extending the …
