Skift Global Forum East: What to Expect
Getting Started
Skift Global Forum East is your opportunity to meet key players in travel, hospitality, and tech – all under one roof.
Here’s what to expect:
- Prior to the event, add your event ticket to your Apple Wallet or Google Wallet.
- Download the Skift Live app and log in. We'll grant access to the app the week before the event.
- Find the Skift team at the registration desk. They are ready to assist with any questions or needs throughout the event.
- Introduce yourself early and often with fellow attendees and newcomers.
- Drop by the networking lounges between sessions for casual conversations.
How to Network
Skift Global Forum East is a networking hub. Here’s how you can make the most of it:
- The opening night reception is where you’ll want to introduce yourself and build relationships with attendees in a relaxed setting.
- Use the Skift Live App to schedule at least 3 meetings before the event.
- Join other attendees by sitting beside them during coffee breaks or lunch to spark new connections.
- Focus on meaningful exchanges of business cards, ideas, and insights.
- Prioritize Roundtables for candid, off-the-record conversations with industry peers.
- Take quick notes after every conversation. Post-event, follow up with everyone you connected with.
- Following the last session of the day, there is an on-site cocktail reception.
The Programming
Every day at the Skift Global Forum East is an opportunity to learn, connect, and get inspired:
- An introduction from Skift CEO Rafat Ali with a preview of the day.
- Kick-off with an exclusive opening night reception at Yas Circuit/F1 in Abu Dhabi.
- Start your day with a lively networking breakfast, sparking innovative industry-leading conversations.
- Interactive sessions with top experts, featuring short talks, live Q&As, and panel discussions spotlighting the Middle East as a travel innovation hub.
- A single track, so you don't have to choose what to miss out on.
- Attendees can follow the conversation with live transcriptions and translations in the Skift Live app.
What it's Like for Partners
Put your brand at the center of global travel conversations with Skift Global Forum East:
- Showcase your solutions to travel innovators in the rapidly growing Middle Eastern markets.
- Drive business impact with direct access to key executives and influencers.
- Connect with top decision-makers actively seeking collaborations and new ideas, especially in dynamic hubs like Abu Dhabi.
- Gain thought leadership opportunities through speaking slots, panels, or sponsored sessions.
- Keep your brand visible through event sponsorships, Skift Live app ads, and strategic placements.
Watch Highlights
Watch highlights from the Skift Global Forum East 2024. Speakers in 2025 include:
- Jean-Jacques Morin, Accor, Group Deputy CEO and Premium, Midscale & Economy Division CEO
- Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad Airways, Group CEO
- Jim Murren, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Executive Chairman and CEO
- Elena Sorlini, Abu Dhabi Airports, Managing Director and CEO