Event Biju John | September 17, 2026

Robust aviation infrastructure and data-led decisions central to post-conflict connectivity

The Middle East’s travel and tourism community must prioritise aviation infrastructure and data-informed decision- making in preparation for a swift post-conflict rebound, according to ministers and industry experts speaking at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026.

Aviation as Infrastructure
- Abdul Wahab Teffaha (AACO):
- Stressed that aviation connectivity is no longer a luxury but part of a nation’s core infrastructure.
- Governments should treat aviation as foundational to economic and social resilience.

Regional Perspectives
- Seychelles (Minister Nicola Amanda Bernstein):
- About 60% of Seychelles’ travel flows through the Middle East, making it vulnerable to regional tensions.
- Recovery depends on partnerships and diversification of routes and markets.
- Lebanon (Minister Laura El Khazen Lahoud):
- Called for smarter tourism through collaboration with airlines.
- Emphasized data-sharing to synchronize supply, demand, and efficiency.

Industry Insights
- Schubert Lou (Trip.com CEO):
- Advocated for a playbook to guide industry responses to crises.
- Highlighted the need for accelerated decision-making and robust infrastructure planning.

Event Context
- Danielle Curtis (RX Global):
- Praised the resilience of the Middle East’s travel community amid recent challenges.
- Noted the importance of strengthening both physical and digital connectivity.

ATM 2026 Theme:
Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology.
- Focus areas: AI, digital transformation, smart mobility, evolving traveler expectations.
- Global Stage hosted 10 sessions on Day 3, including topics on public-private partnerships and premiumisation.

📌 Takeaway: The conversation underscored that aviation infrastructure, partnerships, and data-driven decision-making are critical for resilience and post-conflict recovery. The Middle East’s role as a hub makes collaboration essential not only for regional stability but also for global tourism flows.