Learn about the future of travel to the Middle East on this recorded webinar

International travel has taken a huge hit due the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Many countries have closed their borders to tourists, while others have required mandatory quarantines or proof of negative PCR tests upon arrival. That said, we’re starting to see some of these restrictions ease — a trend that will hopefully continue in the weeks and months to come.

One such country that has started welcoming foreigners in again is the United Arab Emirates, as Dubai and Abu Dhabi are both open for travelers. But what exactly does that mean for those planning a visit?

On this week’s Future of Travel webinar, TPG’s founder and CEO, Brian Kelly, welcomed Vincent Frascogna, Vice President of the Americas at Etihad Airways. During their time together, Brian and Vincent covered a myriad of topics, including:

• The current status of entering the UAE — including some differences between Abu Dhabi and Dubai
• What Etihad is doing to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers
• Requirements to fly on Etihad during the pandemic (masks and a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours of check in)
• A return of Etihad’s A380
• How Etihad is looking ahead to 2021 and beyond

However, there’s still a lot up in the air, however, so if you’re at all thinking about taking a future trip to the Middle East, check out the full recording below.

More about Etihad Airways

Etihad has some of the most luxurious cabins in the world of commercial aviation — including the three-room Residence and the spacious First Apartments on the carrier’s A380s. While these planes are currently grounded due to the pandemic, Etihad has committed to keeping them around, giving plenty of additional opportunities for travelers to visit Abu Dhabi (or beyond) in style.

RELATED: Watch as TPG UK reviews all four classes on Etihad Airways’ A380

“The Future of Travel with Brian Kelly” is a series of live events looking ahead at what’s in store for the travel industry as it begins to recover from the coronavirus pandemic. Join Brian as he interviews top experts and company executives on a range of topics, including traveler health, cleanliness measures, loyalty programs and what it all means for the traveling public.

For recordings of past sessions, please visit the following links:

• Future of cruising with Carnival CEO Arnold Donald
• Your health and travel with Doctor Mike
• Airline operations with JetBlue President and COO Joanna Geraghty
• 6 things America’s top flight attendant thinks about the future of travel, with Sara Nelson
• Hear from Brian Kelly and Oneika Raymond on the future of inclusive travel
• What will the future of international travel look like? Here’s what a US state department rep had to say
• The 5 things first-time RV renters should know, according to the CEO of RVshare

Featured photo by Nicky Kelvin/The Points Guy