According to the 2014 Global Spa and Wellness Economy Monitor report by the Global Wellness Institute, the value of wellness trips across MENA has reached US$7.3 billion, with health-focused tourists sending 130 per cent more than regular travellers.

To capitalise on opportunities, Arabian Travel Market has launched a new Wellness & Spa Lounge, providing 25 exhibitors with an ideal platform from which to target this high profile, high spend market segment.

Exhibitors represent some of the world’s most recognised health and wellness hospitality destinations.

“In our research we found that across all markets, wellness tourism is exceptionally popular.

“This is confirmed by the report, which shows over a nine per cent year-on-year growth forecasted for the next two years, which is a staggering 50 per cent faster than overall global tourism,” said Nadege Noblet-Segers, exhibition manager, Arabian Travel Market.

“This prompted us to design a dedicated space with seminar sessions focused exclusively on industry topics.

Looking at specific destinations in the region, the UAE’s spa industry is forecast to achieve revenues of US$1.49 billion by the end of 2015, rising to US$2.26 billion by 2017, making it one of the most valuable tourism-related industries in the Middle East.

According to the GWI report, the UAE will top spa growth in the region by 2017, more than doubling current business volume with 17.9 per cent annual growth since 2012.

“Destinations that offer truly innovative wellbeing experiences will be the success stories of tomorrow, and are best positioned to be a more competitive and profitable future product,” commented John Bevan, chief operating officer, Spafinder Wellness.

Arabian Travel Market will build on the success of this year’s edition with the announcement of an additional hall as Reed Travel Exhibitions looks to add to its record-breaking achievements earlier this year.

The event takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre, on April 25th-28th, 2016.