ATM Global Stage to kick off with Expo 2020 debate

Expo 2020 is set to come under the spotlight on Arabian Travel Market’s Global Stage this year.

The Expo in Dubai is set to take place between October 2020 and April 2021, and will bring together more than 180 nations and is expected to host an international audience of 25 million visitors.

ATM senior exhibition director Simon Press said in a statement: "Early forecasts are that 70% of visitors will hail from outside of the UAE, representing the largest international visitor contribution in Expo history. While the short-term goal is to deliver an exceptional six-month event, we have secured a top panel who will discuss how Dubai and the wider UAE can capitalise on its success and ensure there is a lasting legacy."

Titled 'Expo 2020 Dubai: The Legacy', the panel will chaired by UAE broadcaster Richard Dean at 12.30pm on Monday, April 24. Four VIP speakers have been confirmed, including: Marjan Faraidooni, vice president, legacy impact & development, Expo 2020; Issam Kazim, CEO, DTCM; Anita Mehra, SVP communications & reputation, Dubai Airports; and Deidre Wells, OBE CEO UKinbound.

The session will assess the role of Expo 2020 in delivering the UAE government’s long-term vision for economic diversification. Panellists will discuss sustainability as part of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Year of Sustainable Tourism Development; the potential legacy of the mega project; and the future of the UAE as a knowledge economy, a global city, and tourism destination.

The panel will also outline the true impact of Expo 2020 on the UAE and the wider GCC’s travel, tourism and aviation industries, considering the big picture infrastructure and investments planned for the next 10 to 15 years.

Arabian Travel Market 2017 is set to take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre on April 24-27.