Industry Leaders Unpack Travel’s Future at Skift Global Forum East this November

This November 19-20, Skift Global Forum East, hosted by Dubai, will return to the Middle East to bring together the brightest minds in travel, hospitality, tourism, and aviation who are driving innovation and shaping the future of the global travel industry. Join us as we discuss these big questions and many more facing the region:

   • How are destinations capturing demand as travelers evolve? 

   • Will a unified visa truly have an impact in attracting travelers? 

   • What is the evolution of luxury and broader hospitality shifts in the region?

   • What is the right path for airlines as they seek growth in the GCC?

   • As the center of gravity of travel moves East, what is the industry doing to adapt?

The forum will showcase a dynamic mix of industry heavyweights, including Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai’s Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, who will offer insights into Dubai’s vision as a global tourism hub. Watch his discussion with Skift CEO, Rafat Ali, at this year’s Skift Global Forum here.

The aviation sector will be well represented with Antonoaldo Neves, Group CEO of Etihad Aviation Group, and Aloke Singh, CEO of Air India Express, sharing strategies on navigating the ever-evolving airline industry. Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal, will also join the conversation, providing insights from the perspective of a low-cost carrier. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, will also join us to discuss the role of airports in the future of global connectivity.

Hospitality leaders like Guy Hutchinson, President of Hilton Middle East & Africa (MEA), Dillip Rajakarier, CEO at Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International, and Mark Kirby, COO and Head of Hospitality at Emaar Hospitality Group, will explore how they are adapting to changing consumer behaviors and redefining guest experiences.

Rounding out the lineup are industry influencers like Carlo Olejniczak, VP & MD of EMEA at Booking.com, who will discuss emerging trends and opportunities in online travel and beyond, as well as other voices sharing emerging ideas and perspectives, including: Amani (El Sehrawey) O’Neill from Airbnb, Maher Koubaa of Amadeus IT Group, and Roman Chiporukha, founder of SpaceVIP.

Secure your spot at Skift Global Forum East – happening on November 20 in Dubai – to gain exclusive insights, engage in meaningful discussions, and network with decision-makers and thought leaders driving the future of travel in the Middle East. Tickets are going fast—less than six weeks remain to reserve yours! Stay tuned for exciting speaker announcements and event updates.