Full Video: Key Themes From Skift Global Forum East’s Kickoff
Photo Credit: Skift CEO Rafat Ali at Skift Global Forum East on October 30, 2025 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Skift
Skift Take
Skift’s return to the Middle East is a sign of where the global travel conversation is headed. From AI to Africa, the kickoff presentation charts a future built on connection, content, and cross-sector collaboration.
Opening the fourth edition of Skift Global Forum East — held for the first time in Abu Dhabi — Skift CEO Rafat Ali welcomed attendees and outlined the key themes shaping the event. He highlighted Abu Dhabi’s pivotal role as both a host and a rising global tourism hub, underscoring the city’s long-term partnership with Skift.
Rafat emphasized the importance of cross-industry collaboration, AI’s growing influence in travel, and the rise of “travel flow corridors” connecting the Middle East, India, and Africa.
He also revisited Skift’s concept of “live tourism” — a new category capturing demand driven by events, entertainment, and experiences. The day’s agenda included curated speaker sessions, industry roundtables, and new initiatives like Women Leading Travel & Hospitality’s global expansion and Skift’s Executive Search program aimed at recruiting senior leadership across the travel sector.
