Abu Dhabi To Host The 4th Skift Global Forum East In Q4 2025 For Travel Industry Leaders

The Skift Global Forum East (SGFE) will take place in Abu Dhabi later this year, marking its fourth annual event. This is part of a collaboration between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Skift, a platform known for travel industry insights. Announced at ITB Berlin, this partnership reinforces Abu Dhabi's status as a prime location for global events.

Rafat Ali, CEO and Founder of Skift, expressed excitement about the upcoming event: "We are thrilled to announce the 4th edition of Skift Global Forum East will take place in Abu Dhabi later this year, happening in Q4 2025. As the premier gathering of global CEOs and travel leaders, this event continues to shape the future of our industry through bold insights, expert speakers onstage, and invaluable networking. Abu Dhabi, with its dynamic blend of culture, innovation, and hospitality, serves as an excellent hub for this forum—bringing together visionaries from around the world to explore new frontiers in travel and hospitality. Thank you to the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi for their partnership."

Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry from DCT Abu Dhabi highlighted the significance of hosting SGFE: "Hosting the Skift Global Forum East in Abu Dhabi reflects our commitment to shaping the future of travel and tourism. The forum will foster meaningful connections among industry leaders, facilitating the exchange of valuable perspectives and the exploration of new growth opportunities within the Middle East region and beyond. The partnership between Skift and DCT Abu Dhabi underscores our belief in the power of partnerships to achieve shared objectives for the tourism sector and fuel progress for all stakeholders."

The SGFE builds upon the success of its sister event held annually in New York. It serves as a central point for discussions on travel innovations within the Middle East. Industry leaders gather to explore emerging trends, key drivers, and growth opportunities both regionally and globally.

Beyond its main agenda, SGFE includes initiatives like Meet Generation Next. This programme aims to enhance dialogue among established and emerging female leaders in the industry. Such initiatives align with DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision to transform socio-economic landscapes while nurturing talent development.

Last year's forum attracted over 500 participants from 32 countries who gathered in Dubai. They discussed significant trends such as experiential travel's rise alongside technological advancements like AI.

Strategic Partnerships

Strategic collaborations like that between Skift and DCT Abu Dhabi leverage events' potential to drive sustainable growth. These partnerships aim to elevate Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector by fostering innovation through shared objectives.

The SGFE continues to be a pivotal platform for exploring future possibilities in travel across various regions. It brings together creative thinkers who analyse innovations crucial for unlocking growth opportunities worldwide.

With inputs from WAM