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.

Expo 2020, set to run 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 per cent 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 24th, the opening day of ATM 2017.

Four speakers have been confirmed to participate in the high-level discussion, including: Marjan Faraidooni, vice president, legacy impact and development, Expo 2020; Issam Kazim, chief executive, Dubai Tourism; Anita Mehra, senior vice president, communications and reputation, Dubai Airports; and Deidre Wells, chief executive, 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 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 ten to 15 years.