In A Closer Look, The National provides an in-depth take on one of the main stories of the week
Ambitious plans to attract 130 million tourists annually to the Gulf by the end of the decade have been shaping the agenda at this week's Arabian Travel Market.
A major push to bolster aviation infrastructure to prepare for the anticipated visitor surge has proved a focus for discussions and deal-making at Dubai World Trade Centre.
Airlines have opened up on efforts to invest in new planes to serve the region's growing network of airports, while national tourism boards have spoken positively of their intent to fill hotels to meet the appetite to experience the Gulf and wider region.
The resilience of the travel sector has also been highlighted, against the backdrop of the war in Gaza and simmering tensions in the Red Sea.
Here, host Nick Webster speaks to The National's aviation correspondent Deena Kamel to find out how a bold vision for the future is taking flight.
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Riyadh Air in talks with Airbus and Boeing over a new order of wide-body jets
Arabian Travel Market – in pictures
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The Abu Dhabi stand at Arabian Travel Market, at Dubai World Trade Centre. All pictures: Victor Besa / The National -
The 30th annual ATM started on Monday and runs until Thursday -
This year’s event focuses on efforts to cut carbon emissions -
How Big Data can benefit the tourism sector was up for discussion -
Etihad Airways dishes on display -
This year’s event attracted more than 2,000 exhibitors from 150 countries -
The Emirates stand -
Saudi Arabia also had a stand at the event -
About 34,000 visitors were expected over the four days
