Dubai sets sights on May rebound for travel and tourism as COVID-19 vaccines take effect

Dubai sets sights on May rebound for travel and tourism as COVID-19 vaccines take effect

Dubai: It might be a little too soon for the rest of the world - but Dubai is already preparing for increased visitor numbers to the emirate. And those plans are built on expectations that the COVID-19 vaccines will make things happen, not just here but in prime overseas destinations that can provide the visitors. "The progress that's being made in the US, Israel (and) the UK gives us hope that life will start to assume some sort of normality," said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, during an industry event last week. "It may seem as though we've stayed in this rather static position for a long time - but I'm getting the impression [about] the progress we're making on vaccinations." "I think there are some strong indications that over the next few weeks, things will move very quickly." The Arabian Travel Market scheduled for May 16-19 will provide an early marker of the sort of visitor turnout Dubai, its airlines and hotels can expect. Last year, the event was held in virtual format, with 12, 000 signing up. (Arabian Travel Market is the region's biggest event to showcase the travel and tourism sector.) The ATM will be followed