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Lifestyle-first, tech-enabled: Marzi redefines the ageing experience through six tightly integrated verticals that expand health span and independence. Purpose at the core: Every service nudges India’s 55-plus population toward movement, connection and lifelong curiosity. Primus Group -supported by General Catalyst and Nikhil Kamath- today unveiled Marzi, a full-stack lifestyle platform that re-imagines how India’s 55-plus citizens live, learn, travel and connect. By weaving together innovation, personalisation and purpose, Marzi delivers end-to-end solutions that help elders thrive with joy, vitality and community. Adarsh Narahari, Founder & Managing Director, Primus and Marzi Building on more than a decade of operating award-winning senior-living communities, Primus is now distilling the proven habits of the world’s “blue zones” into Marzi-bringing longevity-boosting nutrition, movement, purpose and social engagement right into the comfort of every user’s home. Six Pillars of Marzi Travel – Bespoke domestic and international itineraries, elder-friendly logistics and hosted retreats. Community – Neighbourhood clubs, social events and curated workshops that build deep friendships. Digital Tech-Led Concierge – Always-on, voice-first support that sparks conversation, offers reminders and connects users instantly with Marzi’s service desk. Safe Homes – One-stop home-upgrade service for fall-prevention layouts, adaptive fixtures and smart sensors. Learning – Masterclasses and micro-courses to keep minds curious and skills sharp. Health & Wellness – Preventive-care programmes, physiotherapy, personalised fitness and nutrition coaching. “Marzi flips the script from ageing to thriving. Whether it’s door-to-door concierge support, tech- enabled digital assistance or group journeys to soul-soothing destinations, Marzi equips India’s 55-plus with the tools to live independently-with joy, meaning and renewed purpose. We’re not just launching a platform; we’re starting a movement that celebrates life after 55,” said Adarsh Narahari, Founder & Managing Director, Primus and Marzi. While meeting India’s demographic moment according to the Longitudinal Ageing Study of India (lASI), the elder cohort in the country is projected to reach 193 million by 2031, and those aged 55-plus will account for nearly 30 percent of the population by 2036. Marzi positions Primus at the forefront of this seismic shift-focusing not just on where elders live, but how they live. About Primus Primus designs and operates senior-living and multigenerational communities across six Indian metros. Built on passionate people, compassionate care, robust processes and intuitive technology, Primus champions active ageing and longer healthspans through its projects nationwide. Website: primuslife.in | Marzi: marzi.life.

Shri Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary (SGT) University, Gurugram, in partnership with Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini (RMP), Chandragupt Institute of Management Patna (CIMP), and the Public Policy Research Centre (PPRC), co-hosted a one-day national seminar titled “Bihar Leads the Rising East” at the CIMP Campus in Patna. This landmark event aimed to bring together stakeholders from governance, academia, and civil society to reflect on Bihar’s development journey and chart new directions for its inclusive development. Esteemed dignitaries releasing a report on Bihar during the National Seminar ‘Bihar Leads the Rising East’ held in Patna The seminar was conceptualized under the leadership of Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, Chancellor, SGT University, and Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, Former Member, Rajya Sabha, and Vice-Chairman, RMP. The event provides a platform for in-depth discussions on Bihar’s economic resurgence, governance models, rural development, and future policy frameworks. The introductory address was given by Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, who said that “Bihar today is emerging not just as a symbol of cultural pride but as the capital of aspirational progress. Institutions beyond Bihar, including SGT University, PPRC, and RMP, must collaborate to analyze the Purvodaya model and accelerate development in the eastern states. To realize the vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,’ we must document Bihar’s success stories and share its best practices across the nation.” Shri Samrat Choudhary, Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, spoke on the tremendous progress the state is making and will continue to make. “Bihar is witnessing a historic transformation, where once no new medical colleges or universities came up for decades; today we proudly have 32 universities and a budget of Rs. 3.17 lakh crore. With Vikramshila University set for revival and land already allotted, we are reclaiming our legacy and building a stronger future for our youth.” Also, part of the start of the event was an address by Prof. (Dr.) Hemant Verma, Vice Chancellor, SGT University, who emphasized the importance of collaboration for development. “Bihar has long been a cradle of intellectual tradition, from Nalanda to Takshashila. As development increasingly pivots toward the eastern states, universities must move beyond academics to engage with public policy, governance, and field-based research. Today’s youth seek more than degrees, they want to understand and influence policies,” he said. The seminar featured three thematic sessions that explored innovation and impact stories from Bihar, evaluated the implementation of central policies in the state, and envisioned a roadmap for Viksit Bihar @ 2047. Policy insights and success stories were shared by dignitaries including Shri Harivansh Narayan Singh, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha; Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO, NITI Aayog; Shri Nitish Mishra, Industrial Minister, Bihar; and Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Union Minister of Law and Justice, Government of India. The Valedictory Session was presided over by Shri Arif Mohammad Khan, Governor of Bihar, as the Chief Guest. In his key address, he talked about the vision of progress that he had for this state. “Today, I see Bihar beginning to write its own story of transformation. The roads that once took two hours to travel now take just 45 minutes. The change is visible not just in our infrastructure but also in our spirit. Women, who were once under-represented in public service, are now stepping forward in greater numbers to serve in the police and other sectors. These may seem like scattered signs, but together they mark the dawn of a new Bihar.” The last session also included the ceremonial release of the report titled “Bihar: BIMARU to Behtar.” As a leading academic institution, SGT University is proud to be part of this initiative and remains committed to contributing to India’s development through policy dialogue, research, and partnerships. This seminar stands as a testament to the power of institutional collaboration in shaping a purposeful and progressive national future. About SGT University Nurturing Future Leaders in Gurugram Through Excellence in Education Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University (SGT University), Gurugram, is one of the leading multidisciplinary institutions in Delhi-NCR, accredited with an A+ grade by NAAC. With over 200 programs across diverse fields such as Engineering, Health Sciences, Law, Design, and Management, SGT University is committed to academic excellence, industry alignment, and research innovation. It houses advanced research labs, Centres of Excellence, and government-recognised incubation centres. With 600+ patents, 10,000+ publications, and collaborations with top organisations like Deloitte, Infosys, and KPMG, SGT University is a catalyst for transformative learning, entrepreneurship, and career-ready talent for a global future. For more information, please visit sgtuniversity.ac.in/index

PayG, a leading homegrown Indian payment gateway innovating financial infrastructure for MSMEs, SMEs, and retailers, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Harmeet Singh Sethi as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Harmeet Singh Sethi, Chief Executive Officer, PayG Harmeet brings more than 25 years of leadership experience spanning technology, financial services, and global markets. His career includes high-impact roles across India, North America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, where he has led digital transformation, fintech expansion, and enterprise sales initiatives. Over his career, he has helmed transformative initiatives across fintech, digital payments, cross borders payment and financial infrastructure, cultivating strong regulatory-compliant operations and delivering scalable solutions. In his new role at PayG, Harmeet will lead strategic vision and execution across product innovation, regulatory landscape alignment, and stakeholder engagement. His top priority will be enabling seamless digital transactions that are accessible, secure, and efficient especially for merchants in semi-urban and rural India. A key focus will be on enhancing PayG’s mobile‒first, low‒bandwidth‒optimized payment solutions (QR codes, SMS links, app-based virtual POS) without requiring costly hardware. In alignment with the Digital India vision, Harmeet will also focus on onboarding small traders and micro-entrepreneurs onto the PayG mobile app and collaborating with ONDC to enable broader digital commerce access for local businesses across the country. “I am thrilled to join PayG at such a pivotal stage,”Mr. Harmeet said. “As digital transactions are surging across India, and customer expectations are evolving rapidly. My goal is to reinforce PayG’s tech‒driven foundation while ensuring data security, compliance, and operational resilience. Together with the PayG team, we will continue innovating to stay ahead of customer needs and market trends.” PayG Chairman Kamal Manohar Jangeti welcomed Harmeet to his new role and said, “Harmeet brings deep fintech expertise and a proven global track record in building customer‒centric and technology‒led platforms. Under his leadership, PayG is well positioned to drive R&D, expand product reach, and deliver sustained growth across diverse markets.” In May 2025, PayG received its official Reserve Bank of India Payment Aggregator license, empowering the company to offer fully compliant, secure, and scalable financial services. This milestone amplifies PayG’s capability to deepen its fintech ecosystem presence and broaden its product offerings. With Harmeet steering the helm, PayG plans to accelerate product innovation, strengthen regulatory compliance, expand merchant adoption, and extend depth of service especially into tier II/III cities and rural districts. About PayG Founded in 2020, the PayG payments solution is one of the most trusted payment gateway service providers in India. We proudly make our payment gateway one of the most affordable ones so that everyone can access it. PayG also frees the merchants from all sorts of extra charges. So, you pay for only what you want – no hidden terms and conditions. As of now, PayG has partnered with 1000+ SMB merchants and 50+ enterprise clients. PayG features over 120+ payment options which include various banks’ credit cards, debit cards, net banking, and wallets to accept payment easily.

Asian Paints, India’s leading name in home aesthetics, has launched its latest corporate campaign ‘Socha Bhi Nahi Hoga’ – Beyond Your Imagination, highlighting the creativity and possibilities that come with designing a beautiful home. The campaign redefines how we look at colour, dcor, and the very idea of home transformation. Through lighthearted storytelling and relatable moments, it effortlessly showcases how transforming a home can be both joyous and inspiring, making the entire journey feel intuitive, guided and full of unexpected possibilities. Asian Paints corporate campaign Socha Bhi Nahi Hoga Rooted in the spirit of the brand’s ethos of bringing joy to peoples’ lives, the campaign demonstrates how Asian Paints supports homeowners at every step, offering hyper-personalised solutions whenever they feel stuck. It highlights the many ways homeowners can connect with the brand, whether through at-home consultations, online support, or expert guidance in stores, ensuring every home truly tells its unique story. The campaign is a four-part ad series showcasing simple, effective home improvement solutions. It follows a young couple as they renovate their home, turning ideas into reality. In the first film, the wife imagines a wall colour, only to be playfully countered by her husband, who uses the Colour with Asian Paints app to reveal the perfect shade. The tool helps them visualise walls in real time, making decisions easier and more confident. Today’s consumers want colour combinations that reflect their unique personalities. The second film captures a playful debate between the couple over the perfect palette, resolved by an Asian Paints via a WhatsApp chatbot and in-store expert, who guide them to a choice that suits both their styles and space. Catering to design-savvy homeowners with global tastes, the third film sees the wife surprise her husband by recreating the charm of Italy-his favourite travel destination-using a Royale Play wall texture. As the expert walks them through the Royale Play catalogue, he leaves them stunned, remarking, ‘Socha Bhi Nahi Hoga’. In the last film, the wife dreams of bringing Sabyasachi into their home, not just her wardrobe. Her skeptical husband is left speechless when the Asian Paints expert introduces the refined ‘Sabyasachi for Nilaya’ collection. When the husband asks, ‘Sabya’ in disbelief, the expert responds with a clever, ‘Sachi’, closing the scene with a playful wordplay. Speaking about the corporate digital series, Amit Syngle, MD & CEO, Asian Paints said, “For over eight decades, we have continuously reinvented ourselves to pioneer innovation and become an integral part of consumers’ homes. With ‘Socha Bhi Nahi Hoga’, we’re going beyond the functional aspects of painting and instilling a sense of imagination in homeowners. This campaign is about inspiring people to see their homes as a canvas for self-expression-where colour, texture and design come together in ways they may have never considered. True to our philosophy, Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai, we believe in helping people create homes that genuinely reflect their identity and tell a story that’s unique to them. Through this series, we invite consumers to embark on a transformative journey with us.” Watch the digital series Socha Bhi Nahi Hoga on YouTube youtube.com/playlistlist=PL2BHpqroisHaOoGX_PMfv4eZu-KyUKl5L&si=hLwnF81je06T3_ro Speaking on the campaign, Sukesh Nayak, CCO, Ogilvy said, “Think Asian Paints. Think wall paints. The two are synonymous. But what one doesnt think of is how big this universe of colours, designs, materials, textures really is. Or how innovative and advanced. It truly is beyond ones imagination. This is exactly what we brought to life in our Socha Bhi Nahi Hoga campaign. The world of Asian Paints that lies beyond your imagination. And your dream home thats always within reach.” CREDITS: Client: Asian Paints Agency: Ogilvy, Mumbai Creative Team (Ogilvy): Sukesh Nayak, Harshad Rajadhyaksha, Kainaz Karmakar, Chhavi Sahni, Prasad Kulkarni & Rahul Rudra Account Management Team (Ogilvy): B Ramanathan, Anish Raghu, Pranesh Arde, Prathamesh Thakur & Rupali Shriram Planning Team (Ogilvy): Prem Narayan, Samhita Chaudhuri & Kshitij Rajoria Production House: FFI (For Films India) Director: Aditya Sengupta Producer: Zara Sengupta & Unnati Agarwal About Asian Paints Limited Since its founding in 1942, Asian Paints has become India’s leading and Asia’s second-largest paint company, with a consolidated turnover of Rs. 33,797 crores (Rs. 338 billion). It continues to uplift spaces, transcend the boundaries of colour and design, creating a positive impact on the lives of customers. The organization operates in 14 countries and has 26 paint manufacturing facilities globally, servicing consumers in over 60 countries. Asian Paints has always been a leader in the paint industry, innovating and introducing new concepts in India like Colour Ideas, Beautiful Homes Painting Service, Colour Next, and Asian Paints Beautiful Homes Stores. Asian Paints manufactures a wide range of paints and coatings for Decorative and Industrial use and also offers specialized painting and interior decor solutions. The decorative business portfolio also includes the SmartCare range for waterproofing, WoodTech products for wood finishes, and the Adhesives range for all surfaces. Asian Paints also offers a wide range of Home Dcor products and is one of the leading players in the integrated decor space in India, offering Modular Kitchens and wardrobes, Bath Fittings and Sanitaryware, Decorative Lightings, uPVC windows and doors, Wall coverings, Furnitures, Furnishings, Rugs, etc.

Manipal’s American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine has announced a major academic shift that will offer Indian students greater flexibility and faster pathways to a medical career. Beginning this September, Manipal’s AUA will transition to a trimester schedule, enabling new student intakes three times a year-in May, September, and January. Manipal AUA student Group Manipal’s AUA offers a comprehensive medical program tailored for students who have completed their 12th grade or equivalent, and aspire to become global doctors, practicing in the USA, Canada, or the UK. Students can opt to begin their academic journey at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in Manipal, India. Aerial view of Manipals American University of Antigua Campus at Antigua The introduction of the third intake in May, starting this September, means students no longer have to wait for traditional academic cycles This change not only allows them to begin their medical education sooner but also reduces the overall duration of the MD program from 6.5 years to 6 years. Students can graduate earlier and progress more quickly toward clinical rotations and licensure. With a shorter timeline, students will also incur lower expenses related to housing, travel, and daily living, making medical school more affordable and accessible. “This new trimester reflects our commitment to meeting students where they are and supporting their academic goals with greater flexibility,” said Dr. Peter Bell, President of AUA. “By offering an additional start date, we’re empowering future physicians to take control of their timelines and move forward with confidence.“ The trimester schedule maintains AUA’s rigorous academic standards while enhancing overall efficiency. A key benefit is the integration of the Global Health Track, previously a separate program, into the core curriculum. Offered in collaboration with Florida International University (FIU), this track ensures that all students gain exposure to global health systems, community engagement, and public health challenges. Depending on their entry point, students may also become eligible to apply for residency programs up to a year ahead of schedule, giving them a competitive edge and accelerating their medical careers. Apply Now Applications are now open for the August 2025 intake. For more details on admission and eligibility, visit: go.auamed.org/india About Manipal’s American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine Established in 2004, the American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine, part of the prestigious Manipal Education and Medical Group, is a fully accredited international medical school offering a rigorous, innovative education designed to prepare students for successful careers in medicine. Manipal’s AUA has grown into a hub for international education, operating from a modern, 150,000 sq. ft. technologically advanced campus in Antigua. It follows a US-modeled curriculum that emphasizes hands-on training and personalized learning through small batch sizes. With clinical rotations at over 35+ affiliated teaching hospitals across the United States, UK, and Canada, and a vast network of over 4,000 accomplished alumni practicing worldwide, Manipal’s AUA provides a dynamic and nurturing environment for students to develop their medical expertise. The university is recognized by the Medical Board of California (MBC), approved by the New York State Education Department, and accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and Other Health Professions (CAAM-HP). Graduates are fully eligible for residencies and medical licensing exams in the USA, Canada, and the UK, opening doors to global opportunities. Backed by Manipal’s 70-year legacy in healthcare and education, Manipal’s AUA is more than just a medical school. It emphasizes a holistic admissions approach, selecting highly motivated students based on a well-rounded profile that includes 10th and 12th scores, personal interviews, entrance test, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities, rather than relying solely on the NEET score.

Egis, a global leader in architecture, consulting, construction engineering, operations and maintenance services firm, announced two senior leadership appointments in the Middle East and South Asia region. These strategic changes are designed to accelerate Egis’ ambitious growth trajectory, strengthen its market position, and ensure continued excellence across all business lines in the region. Gurminder Sagoo and Markos Apostolides Gurminder Sagoo has been appointed as the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) for the MESA region. Gurminder will lead all commercial and business growth activities, with a primary focus on setting strategic direction and generating revenue, while ensuring that client satisfaction and brand integrity remain central to Egis’ mission. Gurminder has an over 30-year impressive track record in the built environment, administering market-facing activities in diverse organizations and international geographies. Having served as the Country Managing Director for the UAE and Oman for the past three years, he successfully oversaw high-performing teams and managed key market-facing initiatives across a wide range of business lines. Markos Apostolides, previously the Chief Commercial Officer for the region, will now take on the role of Regional Director for Consulting & Operations for MESA. Egis Consulting & Operations Business Line is a cornerstone of the companys global strategy, focusing on advisory, aviation and operations and maintenance projects, together with delivering solutions on a turnkey basis. In his new role, Markos will focus on driving client mobilization across major regional contracts, enhancing the performance and governance of operations, expanding consulting services, and leading the continued integration and growth of Egis’ Operations & Maintenance business. With over 25 years of operational leadership experience and deep commercial insight, Markos is well-positioned to drive success in these critical areas. Frederico Justus, CEO, Middle East & South Asia, said: “The regional leadership changes reflect our full alignment with the region’s ambitions, particularly with the growing emphasis on infrastructure development and digital transformation as part of national visions. These appointments signal Egis’ readiness to continue delivering on our promise to support our clients in navigating these dynamic challenges.” Moreover, Egis is confident that these strategic leadership changes will enhance the company’s growth prospects in the MESA region, while deepening its client relationships and expanding its capabilities in key sectors, driven by its exceptional talent and expertise. About Egis Egis is an international player active in architecture, consulting, construction engineering and mobility services. We create and operate intelligent infrastructures and buildings that respond to the climate emergency and contribute to more balanced, sustainable and resilient territorial development. Operating in 100 countries, Egis puts the expertise of its over 20,000 employees at the service of its clients and develops cutting-edge innovations accessible to all projects. Through its wide range of activities, Egis is a key player in the collective organisation of society and the living environment of citizens all over the world. With 3,500 employees across 8 countries in the Middle East, Egis has delivered over 700 complex development projects, stimulating economic growth and enhancing quality of life. Ranked among the top five firms in the Middle East by Engineering News Record (ENR), Egis is committed to sustainable development. The Group’s operations in the Middle East are built on strategic acquisitions and a deep understanding of local market conditions. Egis’ long history of providing comprehensive engineering, consulting, and project management services makes it a trusted partner for regional governments, investors, and developers. LinkedIn: Egis | Instagram: @egisgroup | X: @egis | Facebook: @egisgrou

CloudThat, a leading provider of cloud training and consulting services, revealed that Google Cloud Learning Services has named it the Google Cloud New Training Partner of the Year for 2025, an honour announced at a dedicated, private event held at the Google Cloud Next conference in Las Vegas recently. This prestigious award recognizes CloudThat’s remarkable contributions in empowering learners through innovative training programs that have driven significant skill development and accelerated cloud adoption worldwide. CloudThat Wins Google Cloud New Training Partner of the Year Award 2025 CloudThat achieved this milestone in its first year as a Google Cloud Authorized Training Partner, training close to 1,100 professionals and delivering 50+ impactful sessions across diverse industries with a customer satisfaction score (CSAT) of 4.60. The company also established training partnerships with Fortune 500 companies in sectors such as fintech and IT/ITES, where their tailored programs accelerated cloud adoption and innovation. A global IT company collaborated with CloudThat to enhance its cloud capabilities, overcoming challenges in utilizing cloud infrastructure through customized training that improved the team’s technical expertise and enabled successful cloud-based projects. “We are thrilled to be recognized as the Google Cloud New Training Partner of the Year from Google Cloud Learning Services,” said Bhavesh Goswami, Founder and CEO of CloudThat. “This award reflects our team’s dedication to empowering learners with the skills to succeed in a cloud-driven world. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Google Cloud to shape the future of cloud expertise.” CloudThat’s expert team of Google Authorized Trainers has been instrumental in delivering high-quality training, reinforcing its role as a partner that transforms organizations. With a proven track record, CloudThat has established itself as a trusted leader in Google Cloud training across the APAC region. The company remains committed to advancing cloud education, delivering innovative training solutions that enable organizations across industries to harness the full potential of cloud. About CloudThat Established in 2012, CloudThat is an award-winning company and the first in India to offer cloud training and consulting services for mid-market and enterprise clients worldwide. Headquartered in Bengaluru, India, with offices in the UK, USA, and Bangladesh, CloudThat specializes in training for Cloud, GenAI, AI/ML, Data, DevOps, and other cutting-edge technologies, having trained over 850,000 professionals across 600+ certifications. CloudThat recently won Google Cloud Learning Services’s New Training Partner of the Year Award for 2025, continuing its legacy with consecutive AWS Training Partner of the Year Awards (2023 & 2024) and the Microsoft Training Partner of the Year Award (2024). These achievements mark its 12th award in eight years, along with the distinction of being recognized by all three cloud giants-Google Cloud, AWS, and Microsoft. For more information, please visit www.cloudthat.com/corporate-training/

The direct route between Dubai and Da Nang, operated by Emirates – one of the world’s most prestigious airlines – has officially launched. These flights from the Middle East, a fast-growth region, are expected to bring significant changes to the coastal city. Sustaining long-term appeal for this class of affluent travellers is now a central concern for Da Nang. The inaugural Emirates flight to Da Nang received a ceremonial welcome Potential from the Middle East Emirates, recently named a global leader in aviation by Forbes Travel Guide 2025, is the largest airline in the Middle East with over 4,100 flights each week from Dubai International Airport to more than 140 cities across 80 countries. The new direct route to Da Nang is a gateway for billionaires from one of the wealthiest regions on earth to access Vietnam’s central coast, carrying immense spending power. It also facilitates the arrival of high-end travellers from Europe and the Americas, as Dubai ranks among the world’s busiest international transit hubs. According to the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Da Nang, as of April 2025, over 13,000 visitors from Middle Eastern countries had arrived in the city. This figure represents 0.73 percent of total international visitors, with most travellers coming from Iran, Israel and Turkey. With the new Emirates route now in operation, this number is expected to rise sharply, potentially adding trillions of Vietnamese dong in tourism revenue to the local economy. In recent years, Da Nang has made notable progress in diversifying into new high-potential markets. With a keen focus on growth, the city is extending its tourism outreach to areas including the Middle East and Central Asia. Charter flights to Da Nang have already launched from several cities, including Astana and Almaty in Kazakhstan, with seven airlines offering 10 weekly flights from April to October 2025. Centrum-Air Airways is also operating a weekly service from Tashkent, Uzbekistan. According to Tran Chi Cuong, Vice Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee, the launch of the Emirates Dubai-Da Nang route reduces the travel gap between Da Nang and major global markets such as the Middle East, Europe, North America and Africa. It also helps to strengthen tourism development and opens new avenues for trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Da Nang appeals to affluent travellers To serve high-end tourists, a destination must offer diverse experiences and premium resorts. Travelers from the Middle East are increasingly seeking new places to explore beyond the typical Southeast Asian favourites like Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore. It’s a prime opportunity for Da Nang, a city that combines natural beauty with world-class hospitality services, to welcome this affluent market. Sun World Ba Na Hills continually unveiling a diverse range of performances and attractions throughout the yea By May 2025, Da Nang had around 1,290 tourist accommodations, including 111 four and five-star hotels. InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, Premier Village Danang Resort, Novotel Danang Premier Han River and Mercure Danang French Village Ba Na Hills, along with international brands such as Hyatt, Sheraton and Marriott which are favoured by Middle Eastern elites. The city boasts 16 tourist sites, with top destinations like Sun World Ba Na Hills and its iconic Golden Bridge, Da Nang Downtown and Than Tai Mountain Hot Spring Park drawing global attention. Golf tourism is another asset for Da Nang. The city features three international-standard golf courses. Ba Na Hills Golf Club, a masterpiece designed by golf legend Luke Donald and managed by IMG, which lauded as Asia’s Best Golf Course five times. Da Nang is embracing Halal tourism, to make Middle Eastern guests feel at home. This travel model respects the religious and cultural practices of Muslim travellers, has become a core part to serve this market. Currently, the city has nearly 30 restaurants and eateries offering Halal-certified or Muslim-friendly cuisine. Among them, Halal Indrapura and Bharata Restaurant at Sun World Ba Na Hills, have received official Halal certification. Nguyen Vu Quynh Anh, Deputy CEO of Sun Group and CEO of Sun Hospitality & Entertainment Group, said, “In addition to high-end services, it is the understanding of culture and the ability to offer culturally refined experiences that allow us to fully meet the needs of these highly discerning guests.” By establishing itself on the Emirates flight map, Da Nang has taken a strategic step forward in tapping into the Middle Eastern tourism market. This new air route is not only a catalyst for tourism growth but also a gateway for expanding trade, investment and cultural cooperation, said Truong Thi Hong Hanh, Director of the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

The Industries Department of the Government of Rajasthan is going to organize ‘Rising Rajasthan’ Partnership Conclave 2025 on December 11-12. The Partnership Conclave, under the hugely successful ‘Rising Rajasthan’ banner, comes as a follow-up of the ‘Rising Rajasthan’ Global Investment Summit 2024 held last year that facilitated the signing of investment proposals worth INR 35 lakh crore. Hon’ble Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, speaking during the Rising Rajasthan Impact 1.0 event held in Jaipur on 31st March 2025 Going beyond sharing updates on the implementation of MoUs signed during the summit, the 2-day conclave will showcase state’s achievements and its development agenda, socio-economic impact of the investments and also facilitate dialogues with global thought leaders across domains like emerging technology trends, innovations, and their impact on global trade and supply chains. The Partnership Conclave will also have a special flavour of showcasing and exploring partnerships with a large number of entrepreneurs & startups in private and public domains. Hon’ble Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, addressing investors during the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit held last year The economic reforms being ushered in by Rajasthan along with the launch of pro-business policies will also be showcased during the 2-day conclave. More significantly, the conclave will also facilitate the government-private tie-ups/partnerships on a series of investible projects under various departments of the Government of Rajasthan. The partnerships will be facilitated between government departments and investors across sectors ranging from infrastructure, utility services, mining, Information Technology, deep-tech, skilling, BFSI (Banking, Financial Services and Insurance) and GCC (Global Capability Centre) to social sectors like health, education, and nutrition among others. Shri Ajitabh Sharma, Principal Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Government of Rajasthan speaking about the significance of the Partnership Conclave, said, “The Partnership Conclave is a great opportunity to bring at the forefront the state’s agenda for economic growth & key measures and reforms undertaken to promote ease of doing business in the state. The partnerships on investible projects has the potential to promote faster growth and bring a turnaround in public services, enhance accountability & promote efficient resource utilization. The Industries Department, that successfully organized the ‘Rising Rajasthan’ Global Investment Summit, is in the final stage of chalking out the agenda and various events for the successor event under the ‘Rising Rajasthan’ banner. Recently, Shri Sharma also chaired a meeting to review the preparations being done by the Industries Department for the 2-day conclave. It is worth noting that in the run-up to the investment summit held from 9-11 December 2024 under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, the government had exchanged record investment proposals worth INR 35 lakh crore. At the IMPACT 1.0 event held in March this year, the government had announced that the grounding of MoUs worth INR 3.08 lakh crore has already commenced in the state.

While much of Europe hums with peak-season crowds, Minor Hotels offers the opportunity to carve a quieter path, one that leads to alpine hideaways, historic palaces, and riverside retreats away from the usual tourist trails. From Port wine tastings in Portugal to private opera access in Budapest, these destinations offer a refined, insider’s perspective on Europe, one that’s curated, considered, and comfortably removed from the expected. Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel Exterior Sunset Explore the handpicked hotels below for a unique European Summer in 2025: Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel, Austria Following an extensive renovation completed in May 2025, Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna now stands as the brand’s first hotel in Austria, merging imperial architecture with serene, contemporary living. Originally designed by Theophil Hansen for the 1873 World Exhibition, the building has been reimagined with 152 spacious guest rooms and suites that pair warm, neutral interiors with bespoke Viennese detailing, from glossy and matte finishes to soft lighting that filters in through three revitalised courtyards. Culinary focus finds its peak at Edvard, the hotels Michelin-starred restaurant, where exquisite seasonal tasting journeys with locally-sourced ingredients are driven by a low-waste philosophy. Experiences include following in Theophil Hansen’s footsteps, taking in some of the city’s most iconic architectural masterpieces, or discovering Vienna’s in-city vineyards and enjoying some of the local vintages. The Anantara Spa completes the journey with wellness rituals rooted in traditional thermal therapies, personalised yoga sessions, and tailored in-room treatments. Deluxe rooms start from EUR 500 per night. For more details, visit: Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel. Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel Restaurant Boa Vista Terrace Dining Area Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel, Hungary Set in a restored 19th-century architectural landmark, Anantara New York Palace Budapest blends Belle poque elegance with distinctly local flavour. The hotel’s grand centrepiece, New York Caf, often called the most beautiful caf in the world, has been the heart of Budapest’s coffee culture for over a century. Today, guests enjoy breakfast beneath the caf’s golden stucco, marble columns, and Murano chandeliers. Experiences give travellers a deeper understanding of the Hungarian capital as one can step into a vintage VW Samba minibus for a guided city tour across Budapest’s architectural icons or choose a more culinary path with the hotel’s signature Gastronomic Walking Tour. That journey winds through hidden alleys and family-run food stops to discover local delicacies like chimney cake, cold-smoked sausages, and Tokaji wine. The hotel’s Anantara Spa is inspired by the city’s thermal heritage, offering rituals that echo the natural healing waters below the surface of Budapest, while the rooms bring together velvet upholstery, classical detailing, and city-facing balconies. Deluxe rooms start from EUR 239 per night. For more details, visit: Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel. NH Collection Alagna Mirtillo Rosso, Italy The newly opened NH Collection Alagna Mirtillo Rosso marks the brand’s debut in the Italian Alps. Located two hours north of Milan, the hotel is a serene alpine retreat designed for all seasons with activities for the entire family. In summer, it becomes a base for hiking, e-biking, and high-altitude adventure. The 56-room hotel blends chalet-style charm with NH Collection’s signature contemporary polish, featuring guest rooms with panoramic mountain views, warm timber accents, and understated alpine details. Wellness is a key focus, with two distinct spa zones-one tailored for families and another reserved exclusively for adults-with heated saltwater pools and a panoramic sauna. A Piedmont-inspired restaurant and a welcoming communal fireplace lounge round out the experience, making this a design-forward gateway to the wild beauty of northern Italy. Superior rooms start from EUR 120 per night. For more details, visit: NH Collection Alagna Mirtillo Rosso. Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia, Portugal Set across the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia, Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia was built from the restoration of Kopke cellars, the world’s oldest Port wine house. This newly launched property reimagines Portuguese tradition in a luxurious, contemporary form. With 150 guest rooms and suites, many facing over the river to Porto’s old town, the hotel combines terracotta tones, carved stone, and sleek wood textures to reflect its heritage. In the heart of this 20,000 sqm property there is a century-old Kopke cellar, where more than two million litres of wine are aging. The cellar is open to guest visits, private barrel tastings and expert-led pairing dinners. There are two signature restaurants led by the Michelin-starred chef Nacho Manzano, a rooftop bar with striking river views, and a Tivoli Spa where grape-based treatments and sensory rituals reflect the region’s natural richness. The location provides direct access to the riverfront promenade but remains tucked away from the bustle of the busier neighbourhoods north of the river in Porto. Superior rooms start from EUR 300 per night. For more details, visit Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia. Travelling elsewhere in Europe Discover Minor Hotels’ over 280 hotels and resorts across Europe all in one place at minorhotels.com. Editor’s Notes About Minor Hotels Minor Hotels is a global leader in the hospitality industry with over 560 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 57 countries. The group crafts innovative and insightful experiences through its eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli – and a diverse portfolio of restaurants and bars, travel experiences and spa and wellness brands. With over four decades of expertise, Minor Hotels builds stronger brands, fosters lasting partnerships, and drives business success by always focusing on what matters most to our guests, team members and partners. Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and recognises its guests through one unified loyalty programme, Minor DISCOVERY, part of GHA DISCOVERY. Discover our world at minorhotels.com and connect with Minor Hotels on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.