Published on
September 13, 2025
The Asian Tourism Fair (ATF) event in Dhaka is a pivotal moment in the tourism sector, both for Bangladesh and the global travel community. It serves as a bridge, linking Bangladesh to the global tourism scene while enhancing regional connections. With its focus on fostering relationships between travel service providers, industry professionals, and tourists, ATF plays a significant role in promoting tourism across Asia. The event brings together a diverse group of participants, showcasing everything from eco-tourism to luxury travel. By creating opportunities for B2B and B2C networking, it helps businesses expand their reach and strengthens Bangladesh’s position as a key player in the global tourism market. The fair also includes engaging side events, making it more than just an exhibition. It’s a dynamic platform for collaboration, learning, and cultural exchange, positioning Bangladesh as a vibrant tourism destination for both international and domestic travelers.
Objectives of the Asian Tourism Fair (ATF Dhaka)
The primary objective of the ATF is to serve as a bridge linking regional tourism markets, specifically between inbound and outbound tourism in the Asian region. This dynamic event helps establish crucial connections across the tourism industry, from service providers and tour operators to destinations and travelers. The ATF is designed to be a comprehensive tourism showcase that offers significant networking opportunities for private sector businesses, government organizations, and development agencies across Asia.
Besides the main exhibition, the fair is distinguished by a variety of sideline events, making it a vibrant and multi-faceted experience. These include showcases of Green Initiatives, Community-Based Tourism Mart, Tourism Skills Conventions, Seminars, Workshops, and Cultural Exchanges, each of which adds a unique layer to the overall event. These elements not only enhance the fair’s appeal but also foster a deeper understanding of sustainable practices, cultural engagement, and tourism innovation within the region.
History and Evolution of the ATF
The roots of the Asian Tourism Fair (ATF Dhaka) trace back to the Dhaka Tourism Fair (DTF), first organized in 2007 by Bangladesh’s premier tourism magazine, The Parjatan Bichitra. Following the success of DTF, the event was expanded and rebranded as the Asian Tourism Fair in 2011, marking the beginning of its current form. Under the management of TGI Asia, the fair has grown to become Bangladesh’s largest and most influential tourism exhibition, attracting key stakeholders from around the globe.
Venue: Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC)
The Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC), renowned as the premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) venue in Bangladesh, serves as the event’s host location. This world-class facility, with its state-of-the-art infrastructure and unique architectural design, provides an ideal setting for hosting large-scale exhibitions and facilitating smooth interactions between exhibitors and visitors. The BICC has earned its reputation by accommodating high-profile international events, making it the perfect choice for a tourism fair of such magnitude.
Market Potential for Tourism in Bangladesh
Bangladesh is rapidly becoming one of the fastest-growing markets in the tourism sector, both for outbound and domestic tourism. The corporate culture in the country also contributes significantly to tourism growth, as many companies offer annual corporate trips both domestically and internationally. The increasing number of flights connecting Bangladesh to Asian and Middle Eastern countries further facilitates the expansion of tourism.
Bangladesh itself is a highly attractive destination for international travelers. The country is home to a variety of unique attractions, including the world’s largest mangrove forest, the longest unbroken sea beach, picturesque tea gardens, hilly regions, and a diverse cultural heritage. Additionally, Bangladesh boasts significant Buddhist heritage sites and a vibrant ethnic community. The country is also growing in popularity as a hub for community-based tourism, providing an authentic and immersive experience for tourists.
Participating Countries and Exhibitors
The ATF Dhaka consistently attracts participants from across the globe, reflecting its importance within the Asian tourism landscape. Previous editions of the event have seen participation from countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, Nepal, the Philippines, Qatar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Exhibitors at the fair include a wide range of tourism-related businesses, such as airlines, railways, cruise lines, theme parks, health spas, resorts, hotels, national tourism organizations, travel agencies, and more. The fair also attracts exhibitors in niche sectors like eco-tourism, medical tourism, adventure tourism, and community-based tourism, showcasing the diversity and breadth of the tourism industry.
Visitors Profile
The visitor demographic at the ATF is diverse and influential, encompassing both professionals and leisure travelers. Visitors typically include business travel agents, national and international travel representatives, corporate travel buyers, tourism professionals, luxury travelers, and adventure tourists. The fair also draws honeymoon travelers, corporate travelers, diplomats, and travel media professionals, making it an ideal platform for networking and business opportunities.
Participation Rates and Packages
For businesses interested in showcasing their offerings, ATF provides various booth options, each with its associated rates. The Standard Booth (8 ft X 8 ft), offering 64 square feet of space, is priced at USD 1500 (with an early bird rate of USD 1200 if booked by June 30). Larger booths are also available, including the Standard Booth (16 ft X 8 ft) at USD 3000 (or USD 2400 for early bird bookings), and the Pavilion (16 ft X 16 ft) at USD 6000 (with an early bird rate of USD 4800).
Foreign Exhibitors Package
ATF welcomes exhibitors from around the world, providing a comprehensive hospitality and logistics package. Services include airport meet-and-greet, transportation, discounted hotel reservations, visa support, and more. For foreign exhibitors, additional services such as interior decoration, promoters (male/female), multimedia setups, and opportunities for sideline events like country roadshows or B2B meetings are available.
Booking and Payment Details
Exhibitors interested in participating are required to download the booking form and proceed with payment according to their chosen booth or pavilion size. The ATF’s booking system ensures a smooth process for exhibitors and supports both domestic and international participants.
Conclusion
The Asian Tourism Fair (ATF Dhaka) offers an unparalleled opportunity for networking, collaboration, and the development of the regional tourism market. It serves as a vital platform for tourism professionals, industry stakeholders, and travelers to explore new business avenues and promote tourism in the Asian region. With its diverse participation, impressive venue, and extensive range of services, ATF continues to play a key role in shaping the future of tourism in Asia and beyond.
Image Credit- asiantourismfair.com
