The legacy of Expo 2020 is set to come under the spotlight on Arabian Travel
Market’s Global Stage, returning for the 2017 show at Dubai World Trade Centre,from April 24 to 27.Expo 2020, between October 2020 and April 2021, will bring together more than 180 nations and is expected to host an international audience of 25 million visitors.
Simon Press, Senior Exhibition Director, ATM, said: “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.”
‘Expo 2020 Dubai: The Legacy’, chaired by UAE broadcaster Richard Dean, kicks off
proceedings at 12.30 on Monday, April 24, the opening day of ATM 2017. Four VIP
speakers have been confirmed to participate in the high-level discussion, 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 the core theme of
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 leading global city, and
tourism destination.
Drawing reference from their unique professional perspectives, 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.
