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As the Macau Grand Prix weekend revs up, on 20 and 21 November, Galaxy Macau gathers a standout line-up of 15 of Asia’s most awarded chefs and mixologists for the anticipated return of its eponymous dining festival – early bird tickets on sale now

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 September 2026 – On 20 & 21 November, Galaxy Macau elevates its gastronomic offering with the standout eponymous edition of Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026. The fourth presentation of Galaxy Macau’s large-scale immersive outdoor culinary event will showcase an elite line-up of 12 of the region’s most sought-after culinary masters, deliveringa cumulative 24 Michelin stars. In addition, featuring three prominent mixologists, including this year’s Asia’s 50 Best Bar’s champions. Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy cements its place as Asia’s leading dining destination, and home to some of the region’s most awarded restaurants, chefs and culinary experiences, all under one roof., under one roof.

The city’s most elevated sensory gastronomy festival takes place across three sittings from Friday 20 November, to Saturday 21 November, spanning two dazzling nights and one thrilling day-time session. Following the standout success of the festival’s first three years at Galaxy Macau, this cornerstone event during Macau Grand Prix weekend has cemented the city’s undisputed status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and the home of Formula 3 racing on the global stage.

Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy celebrates the elemental exchange of cultures, craftsmanship and creativity through a series of extraordinary dining experiences curated exclusively for Galaxy Macau. Tickets from MOP1,988 per person (min. 2 persons) are now on sale at www.galaxymacau.com with an incredible 20% early bird discount offer which includes a complimentary free-flow wine package, on or before 4 October, while tickets last.

Drawing inspiration from the nourishing philosophy of the Five Elements, Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026 invites Asia’s top chefs to interpret Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth through their own creative culinary lens. Set against a vibrant al fresco backdrop of live performances at the Cabana, guests will be immersed in a celebration of flavour, creativity and craftsmanship led by Asia’s foremost culinary masters.

An All-Star Line-up of Culinary Visionaries

Working in small groups, 12 talented masters will showcase their distinct culinary philosophies through diverse ingredients and techniques, transforming nature’s bounty into dishes inspired by the Five Elements. Guests will enjoy an up-close and personal opportunity to engage with Asia’s leading celebrity chefs, as each dish is meticulously prepared in front of them.

Gathered at Galaxy Macau will be a standout, award-winning team of Asia’s elite culinary talents, representing the pinnacle of excellence region-wide:

• Chef Julien Royer: Three-Michelin-Starred Odette, Singapore
• Chef Jimmy Lim: Three-Michelin-Starred JL Studio, Taichung
• Chef Darren Teoh: Two-Michelin-Starred Dewakan, Kuala Lumpur
• Chef Hiroyasu Kawate: Two-Michelin-Starred Florilège, Tokyo
• Chef Vianney Massot​: Two-Michelin-Starred BLACKSWAN, Beijing
• Chef Eom Taejun: One-Michelin-Starred Solbam, Seoul

Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel’s elite culinary team is set to include:

• Chef Masaaki Miyakawa, Three-Michelin-Starred Sushi Miyakawa & One-Michelin-Starred Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa
• Chef Umberto Bombana: Three-Michelin-Starred 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANAHong Kong& One-Michelin-Starred 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA Macau
• Chef Xu Jingye: Two-Michelin-Starred 102 House, Shanghai & House of Origin at Galaxy Macau
• Chef Vicky Cheng: One-Michelin-Starred VEA Hong Kong, and Estuary by Vicky Cheng
• Chef Chan Chek Keong: Two-Michelin-Starred Feng Wei Ju at StarWorld Hotel
• Chef Yam Lok Hin, Assistant Vice President and Chef Creator – Pastry and Bakery, Galaxy Macau, StarWorld Hotel and Broadway Macau

Exceptional Pairings Beyond the Plate

Building on Galaxy Macau’s reputation as a bars innovator, the event brings together some of Asia’s most respected names in cutting-edge mixology.

Leading the line-up is Andrew Ho of Guangzhou’s Hope & Sesame, recognised as “Asia’s Best Bar” this year by Asia’s 50 Best Bars; alongside Shelley Tai, founder-mixologist of Hong Kong’s celebrated Mius, ranked No. 36 on this year’s list and recipient of the “Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award” at Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026. Representing Galaxy Macau is award-winning mixology innovator Nokoy Mak, Bar Manager at Long Bar, Raffles at Galaxy Macau and “Tatler Best 20 Bars 2026” in Macau.

Together, they will present an innovative collection of cocktails and non-alcoholic creations designed to complement the event’s culinary offerings with thrilling pairings.

A Culinary Journey Inspired by the Five Elements

With the elite assembly of 15 of Asia-Pacific’s most celebrated culinary and mixology masters, Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026 presents a unique exchange of knowledge and skills. Guided by the Five Elements, each chef curates with their own distinctive approach, creating an immersive dining experience that reflects the diversity and dynamism of the region’s gastronomic landscape.

Each element embodies a distinctive flavour expression: Wood celebrates freshness and vitality; Metal highlights precision and purity; Water explores depth, texture and umami; Fire showcases transformation through grilling, roasting and seasoning; while Earth brings richness and grounding through nutty, root-driven and comforting flavours.

From 20-21 November, 2026, Galaxy Macau cements its place one of Asia’s most compelling dining destinations, offering a wide array of pristine dining options from Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrated chefs to acclaimed local delicacies. Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026 further reinforces this constellation of inspirational dining, offering guests a thrilling one-stop experience of Asia’s most acclaimed culinary artists – all within one destination, for one weekend only.

For more information about Galaxy Macau and Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026, please visit www.galaxymacau.com.

Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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GALAXY MACAU INTEGRATED RESORT

Galaxy Macau, world-class luxury integrated resort, delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Nine award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau, and Capella at Galaxy Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575 metres, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-metre high and 150-metre pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theatres are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.

Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world- class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit www.galaxymacau.com, www.broadwaymacau.com.mo and www.galaxyicc.com.

Visitor arrivals from the six GCC countries reached 55,924 in 2025, up 25.2 per cent from the previous year, outpacing Japan’s wider inbound tourism growth. The increase came as total international arrivals hit 42.683 million, a record annual figure and a 15.8 per cent rise from 2024, when Japan had already surpassed its pre-pandemic high.

The Gulf performance remains small in absolute numbers compared with Japan’s biggest source markets in East Asia, North America and Europe, but the pace of growth has drawn attention from travel operators because GCC visitors tend to favour premium hotels, private tours, family travel, shopping, wellness experiences and multi-city itineraries. Demand has been supported by stronger aviation links through Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, easier visa processes for several categories of travellers, and sustained interest in Japan’s seasonal attractions.

The rise also reflects a broader shift in Gulf outbound travel. Travellers from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman are looking beyond traditional European summer destinations, especially as Japan promotes cooler regions, countryside routes and immersive cultural experiences. Hokkaido has gained visibility among Gulf families seeking milder summer weather, scenic drives and nature resorts, while Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka continue to dominate first-time travel plans.

Japan’s appeal has been reinforced by the weak yen, which has made shopping, dining and accommodation more attractive for visitors with dollar-linked Gulf currencies. Luxury retail, department stores, theme parks, Michelin-listed restaurants, ryokan stays and private guides have benefited from the spending power of long-haul visitors. Travel agencies across the Gulf have also reported growing demand for tailor-made trips covering cherry blossom viewing, autumn foliage, ski resorts and Japanese pop culture.

Tourism spending has become a major pillar of Japan’s post-pandemic services economy. International visitor expenditure rose to about ¥9.5 trillion in 2025, up 16.4 per cent from the previous year, while average spending per visitor was roughly ¥229,000. The figures underline why Japan is targeting higher-value tourism rather than only volume growth, especially as pressure mounts on crowded destinations such as Kyoto, Mount Fuji viewing spots and central Tokyo districts.

Japan’s national tourism strategy aims to draw 60 million visitors annually by 2030, but policymakers and local authorities are increasingly balancing that target with concerns over overtourism. Measures have included crowd controls, higher accommodation taxes in some areas, visitor-management rules at popular sites and campaigns encouraging travellers to explore regional destinations. For GCC visitors, that strategy fits with demand for quieter, curated experiences outside the standard Golden Route of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.

JNTO’s Dubai office has intensified destination marketing across the Gulf, with campaigns highlighting Hokkaido, Setouchi and other regions suited to repeat visitors. Promotional activity has focused on travel trade partners, digital media, luxury travel networks and family-oriented itineraries, reflecting the region’s preference for planned holidays with strong service standards. Japan’s participation in major Gulf travel events has also helped place the country more firmly in tour operators’ premium Asia portfolios.

Air connectivity remains a decisive factor. Gulf hubs provide one-stop access to several Japanese gateways for travellers from across the region, while Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways have helped keep Japan visible in high-yield leisure and business travel channels. Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi also act as connecting points for travellers from wider Middle East markets, strengthening Japan’s ability to attract visitors beyond its traditional Asian feeder markets.

Visa facilitation has added momentum. UAE nationals continue to benefit from visa-free short stays, while Qatari citizens have access to similar arrangements after completing required registration. Travellers from Saudi Arabia and other GCC states have increasingly been able to use electronic visa channels for tourism, reducing friction for families and first-time visitors. Expatriate residents in Gulf countries remain subject to nationality-based rules, but online processing has improved access for many applicants.

From the spectacular underwater suites at Atlantis Sanya, to the colorful street-art alleys of Tianya Town, and the rooftop infinity pool at Sanya Conifer Resort, each stop gave the visitors a fresh impression of Hainan. Many visitors paused to capture the scenery, remarking with delight: “Sanya is full of surprises!”

Exploring Luxury Resorts and Applauding World-Class Service

At 10 a.m. on June 4, the tour operators arrived at Atlantis Sanya. Upon entering the lobby, they were immediately captivated by the resort’s massive aquarium, where sharks, rays, and other marine creatures glided gracefully through the water. The group was visibly amazed.

The group toured both the ocean-view suites and the resort’s signature underwater suites. In the latter, floor-to-ceiling windows offer direct views into the aquarium, allowing guests to lie in bed and watch marine life drift by as if they were beneath the sea.

“The underwater suite concept is truly unique. Very few hotels in the world can offer an experience like this,” said tour operator Vivian He from Hong Kong. “The dreamlike setting would make an outstanding feature for honeymoon packages and would appeal strongly to younger travelers. I’ve already taken plenty of photos and videos on my phone and plan to use them for promotion when I return.”

The group then traveled to Hyatt Regency Sanya Tianli Bay in Tianya District. Strolling through palm-lined gardens, they were greeted by breathtaking views where the infinity pool seemed to merge with the sea and sky beyond. Many guests stopped to take photos, fascinated by the striking visual effect, which made it look as though water flowed directly into the ocean.

“The design is incredibly clever. It gives you the urge to dive right in and swim toward the sea,” said Julia, a tour operator from Germany, while taking photos of the stunning view. Having worked in the European outbound travel market for many years, she was visiting Sanya for the first time. “In Europe, hotels with sea views like this often come with a very high price tag. Hainan offers excellent value for money. Combined with China’s visa-free policy for travelers from 86 countries, it has tremendous appeal for European visitors.”

The hotel’s representative introduced the group to the property’s all-ocean-view suites, children’s amusement facilities, and its distinctive pink-sand beach. Natthapat, a tour operator from Thailand, showed particular interest in these features. “The children’s facilities and the pink-sand beach are perfect for family travel products. When I return home, I’ll discuss with my team how we can incorporate this destination into our product offerings.”

The delegation then proceeded to Rosewood Sanya. The hotel’s sky lobby, located on the 14th floor, offers sweeping 270-degree ocean views. Equally impressive was the elevated infinity pool on the 13th floor. Suspended between sea and sky, the pool’s edge appears to merge with the horizon, creating a spectacular setting from every angle.

“This is one of the most visually stunning hotel pools I’ve ever seen,” said Amy, a tour operator from Australia, while admiring the view from the poolside. She noted that Australian travelers also have a strong preference for luxury resort experiences, and the design aesthetic and sense of privacy here align perfectly with the expectations of the high-end market.

Throughout the visit, many tour operators actively exchanged business cards with hotel sales representatives, inquiring about partnership opportunities, group rates, and capacity for group reception. A tour operator from Southeast Asia said that he hopes to bring a group of high-end family travelers to experience Sanya’s luxury resort offerings.

Tianya Town’s Artistic Transformation Resonates with Tour Operators

The delegation also visited Tianya Town, where they experienced the unique charm of this “seaside arts village.” From the colorful mural-covered walls at the entrance of Huanglong Street, to the pure-white architecture of Sanya Guanxia Seaview B&B, and the cave-inspired interiors of Malt Cave Seaview Café, every corner became a favorite photo stop.

“This is completely different from the fishing village I imagined,” said Eter, a tour operator from Georgia, pausing at the iconic “18° North Latitude” landmark to examine the coordinates displayed on the wall. She noted that the destination could be easily integrated with the coastal tourism resources of Sanya, Lingshui, and Wanning. “Visitors are drawn to places with distinct geographic markers, which give the destination a sense of occasion.”

A local guide accompanying the group explained that in recent years, Tianya Town has undergone a series of small-scale renovations and refined upgrades. While retaining the original layout and character of a traditional fishing village, it has incorporated contemporary artistic elements, evolving into a popular photo-friendly destination. Today, Tianya Town is home to dozens of seaview guesthouses, cafés, and cultural and creative shops, making it especially popular among younger travelers.

“These small but beautifully designed destinations are exactly what many European travelers are looking for,” said Zhang Jing, a tour operator from Ireland. “Many European visitors are keen to experience local culture and everyday life when they travel. Tianya Town combines fishing village stories, artistic ambiance, and seaside accommodations. It has tremendous appeal.”

Inside one of the town’s cultural and creative stores, the visitors showed great interest in souvenir products featuring traditional Li ethnic totems. France, a tour operator from the United States, even inquired on the spot about purchasing the products in bulk as gifts for clients.

Meanwhile, Korean tour operator Lee Jae-hyun was particularly impressed by the town’s photogenic appeal. “Every corner is picture-perfect. Young people in Korea love destinations that look great in photos. If Tianya Town were included in independent travel packages, I’m sure it would be very popular.”

Duty-Free Shopping Drives Strong Interest and New Cooperation Opportunities

On the afternoon of June 4, the tour operators continued their familiarization tour with visits to Sanya Conifer Resort and Pullman Oceanview Sanya Bay Resort & Spa.

At Pullman Oceanview Sanya Bay Resort & Spa, the group was introduced to the hotel’s comprehensive conference facilities and family-oriented amenities. Guests were particularly intrigued by the hotel’s exclusive underground passageway, which provides direct access to Sanya Bay Beach.

Sanya Conifer Resort, meanwhile, impressed visitors with its iconic 70-meter-high rooftop infinity pool. Offering panoramic views of the Sanya Bay coastline, the elevated waterscape has become one of the hotel’s signature attractions. Its distinctive architectural design also earned high praise from the international tour operators.

Later that day, the delegation arrived at the final highlight of their Sanya tour—a self-guided visit to the CDF Sanya International Duty Free City. As the world’s largest single-building duty-free shopping destination, the complex brings together more than 800 international brands.

Aziz, a tour operator from Malaysia, found himself spoiled for choice in the cosmetics and fragrance section. “Malaysian travelers love duty-free shopping. The selection of brands here is impressive, and the pricing is highly competitive. If duty-free shopping can be combined with resort stays as part of a travel package, I believe it would be extremely well received by the market.”

Julia, a tour operator from Germany, was equally impressed by the scale and variety of the shopping complex. “European travelers enjoy purchasing luxury goods and cosmetics, and Sanya’s duty-free advantages are very clear. I believe Sanya has the potential to become a new favorite destination among European visitors.”

After several days of exploration across Hainan, tour operators from around the world expressed strong interest in developing partnerships in sectors ranging from sports tourism and wellness travel to cultural and leisure tourism. Shirley, a tour operator from Australia, paid particular attention to Hainan’s sports tourism resources. “Hainan has outstanding assets for sports tourism, especially golf and coastal outdoor activities. These resources are ideal for developing sports-focused holiday products. Australian consumers are passionate about sports travel, and I plan to introduce Hainan’s sports tourism offerings to the Australian market.”

According to officials from the Sanya Municipal Bureau of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports, the city has launched several new international air routes since the beginning of this year, contributing to steady growth in inbound visitor arrivals. Looking ahead, Sanya will continue to improve its inbound tourism services and strengthen international market outreach, encouraging more global tour operators to include the city in their product portfolios.

Sunny Hainan, heart’s desire. Although the two-and-a-half-day familiarization tour was brief, it provided tour operators from around the world with a firsthand look at Sanya’s diverse tourism offerings and strong hospitality capacity. More importantly, it allowed visiting industry professionals to identify tangible opportunities for future cooperation. With the continued expansion of international flight connections and the ongoing optimization of inbound travel policies, Sanya is embracing the world with an increasingly open and welcoming outlook, ready to receive more visitors from across the globe.

Hashtag: #SanyaTourismBoard

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By Nitya Chakraborty The joint declaration made by Chinese President Xi Jinping and the visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin after their summit in Beijing on May 20 has major ramifications on the global geopolitics in the context of the present unilateral actions of the U.S. President Donald Trump including the launching of war against Iran […]

The article China-Russia Joint Declaration From Beijing Summit Puts More Pressure On Trump appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Just over four hours from Changi Airport. Visa-free entry. And almost entirely unexplored by Singapore’s diving community.

To close that gap, the Taiwan Pavilion returned for its second consecutive year, transforming the Suntec Convention Centre into a gateway to Taiwan’s four major aquatic frontiers. This year’s headline act: Green Island (Lyudao)—a volcanic gem rising from the Pacific that’s still well under the radar for most Southeast Asian travellers.

Green Island: Taiwan’s Most Underrated Dive Destination

Green Island is not just another dive site. Swept by the warm Kuroshio Current, the island delivers visibility that regularly exceeds 30 metres—a “liquid glass” effect that few dive sites in Southeast Asia can match.

• The Ancient Guardian: Divers can encounter the “Big Mushroom,” a living coral structure believed to be over 1,000 years old—a humbling reminder of what the ocean can sustain when left in peace.
• The World’s Deepest Postbox: At the Shilang Diving Area, you can mail waterproof postcards from the world’s deepest underwater mailbox (11 metres down). It’s the kind of quirky detail that makes travel worth talking about.
• Dive by Day, Soak by Night: Green Island is home to the Zhaori Saltwater Hot Springs—one of the rare seawater hot springs globally. Trading your wetsuit for a poolside soak at sunset is the kind of contrast that turns a trip into a story.

Xiaoliuqiu: Taiwan’s Best Island Escape Off the Clock

Floating off the coast of Pingtung, this compact coral island is one of the few places on Earth where wild sea turtles are so at home, they’ve practically become locals—surfacing beside snorkelers with an ancient calm.

• The Locals Who Never Leave: Xiaoliuqiu hosts one of Taiwan’s densest populations of green sea turtles. With a professional dive guide leading you beneath the surface, an underwater encounter with a creature that has outlived the dinosaurs becomes less a lucky sighting and more a near-certainty.
• Dive by Day, Own the Night: When the sun drops, Xiaoliuqiu doesn’t go quiet—it shifts gear entirely. Night ecology tours reveal a different cast of creatures, and the evening ends not at a hotel bar but around a fire with fresh BBQ seafood under a sky with almost zero light pollution. That’s the kind of night that still feels real a week later.

Penghu: The Basalt Archipelago With a Coral Heart

Anchored in the Taiwan Strait and shaped by seasonal winds that have carved its basalt coastline for millennia, Penghu delivers a version of Taiwan that feels genuinely off-script—ancient, oceanic, and spectacular on its own terms.

• The Bridge That Crosses the Sea: At nearly 2.5 kilometres, the Penghu Cross-Sea Bridge is the kind of infrastructure that earns its own mythology. Drive it at golden hour, with open water stretching in every direction, and a standard itinerary starts to feel like an expedition.
• Taiwan’s Best-Kept Secret Island: Huching Islet—once named one of the world’s top ten secret islands—greets visitors with towering basalt columns, cats that outnumber people, and a pace of life that has no interest in catching up with the mainland. It’s 20 minutes by boat from Magong, and a different world entirely.
• The Double Heart in the Sea: At the southern tip of the archipelago, Qimei Island’s twin stone fish traps curve into two interlocking hearts—built centuries ago by fishermen, now one of Taiwan’s most iconic images. The rare landmark that earns its reputation without trying.
• The Coral That Grows Back: Penghu’s coral restoration programme lets travellers do something rarer than sightseeing—actively participate in reef recovery, planting coral fragments on underwater nurseries alongside marine biologists. The most meaningful souvenir you can’t bring home.

Sustainability: More Than a Trend

With 45.8% of surveyed divers aged 25–34 expressing strong interest in eco-conscious travel, the Pavilion put sustainable diving front and centre. World-renowned underwater photographer Yorko Summer appeared alongside conservationists Peggy (TurtleSpot Taiwan) and NT (Penghu Reef Restoration) to demonstrate how Taiwan is going beyond tourism rhetoric into genuine marine stewardship—3D-printed eco-substrates, sea turtle nesting patrols, and active reef monitoring. Singaporean divers aren’t just being invited to visit—they’re being invited to contribute.

World-Class Gear, Made in Taiwan

The Pavilion also shone a light on Taiwan’s homegrown dive industry. Brands including ATMOS, 123 Underwater Lab, and DIVEVERYDAY demonstrated that the “Made-in-Taiwan” (MIT) spirit extends well beyond electronics and manufacturing—into world-class dive technology ready for Singapore’s most discerning enthusiasts.

— Taiwan Tourism Administration, Singapore Office

As ADEX 2026 makes clear, Taiwan’s dive scene represents one of the most significant untapped opportunities in the Singaporean travel market. For divers looking for somewhere extraordinary—somewhere most of their friends haven’t been yet, just a short flight away—the Pacific has been keeping a secret.

It’s time to dive in.

Hashtag: #ADEX2026

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In addition, the Sanya Tourism Development Bureau has entered into cooperative exchanges with the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) and the Malaysian Budget Hotel Association (MBHA) to strengthen synergy in tourism management, product development, and visitor exchange. The newly established Sanya Tourism Overseas Promotion (Malaysia) Liaison Office will serve as a one-stop information and booking platform for Malaysian travelers, reinforcing Sanya’s position as a preferred gateway to China.

Seamless Entry, Fully Upgraded Travel Convenience

Visa-free access with zero barriers

Under China’s visa-free policy for Hainan, Malaysian citizens may enter with only a passport and stay for up to 15 days—no prior visa, financial proof, or invitation letter is required, allowing for truly spontaneous getaways.

Faster flights, greater efficiency

Direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Sanya take just about three hours, with high occupancy rates during peak seasons reflecting strong demand. Plans to launch direct flights from Penang and Kota Kinabalu to Sanya are under discussion, promising greater accessibility and cost-effective travel options.

Streamlined clearance procedures

Efficiency is prioritized with paperless self-declaration at both Phoenix Cruise Port and Sanya Phoenix International Airport, significantly reducing clearance time. International arrival halls support payments via all major international credit cards, ensuring seamless transactions.

Comprehensive multilingual support

Multilingual support is in place across Sanya—from bilingual signage at attractions and hotels to a dedicated foreign-language service line via the 12345 hotline. The multilingual official website visitsanya.com provides comprehensive information, guaranteeing smooth communication for Malaysian tourists.

Exceptional Value: Exclusive Promotions for Malaysian Visitors

To offer a more value-packed holiday experience, Sanya has prepared tailored benefits and significant discounts, from customized packages to special Asian Beach Games offers, demonstrating its warm hospitality.

The newly established Sanya Tourism Overseas Promotion Liaison Office, in collaboration with the Malaysian Budget Hotel Association and the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents, will launch specially curated travel packages that align with local preferences.

On Trip.com, the “Travel with the Asian Beach Games” promotion features discounted Sanya tourism products, covering hotels, attractions, and holiday packages, with exclusive offers for the Malaysian market.

The 2026 Asian Beach Games bring additional surprises: popular attractions like Wuzhizhou Island and Atlantis Sanya offer tickets at up to 73% off . Hotel rooms across categories—family, couples, and resort suites—enjoy discounts of up to RMB 5,899. Local delicacies and international cuisines are available at discounts of around 48% , promising a delightful culinary journey.

Moreover, 118,000 Asian Beach Games tickets are now on sale globally. With just a few clicks online, visitors can secure their seats to experience the excitement of the 6th Asian Beach Games up close.

Diverse Experiences for Every Traveler

Sanya offers far more than just sun and sand. Whether traveling with family, as a couple, or with friends, everyone can find their ideal way to enjoy the destination.

For families :

Atlantis Sanya Water Park, ranked among the “2026 Global Top 20 Water Parks” and tied for seventh place worldwide with Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay, offers endless aquatic fun for children, while parents can explore the adjacent world-class duty-free complex for shopping and leisure.

For Adventure Seekers:

Wuzhizhou Island, known as “China’s Premier Diving Base,” features crystal-clear waters with visibility up to 27 meters and abundant coral reefs. A variety of water sports, including diving, parasailing, and jet skiing, deliver an adrenaline-filled coastal experience.

For Culture and Wellness:

The 108-meter-tall Guanyin statue at Nanshan and immersive Li and Miao ethnic cultural experiences provide a harmonious blend of spiritual reflection and cultural discovery.

For Luxury and Retail: Sanya’s world-class duty-free complex brings together international brands, art exhibitions, and immersive experiences, creating a high-value shopping and lifestyle destination.

Sanya’s commitment to visitor convenience, diverse offerings, and tailored benefits continues to strengthen its appeal among Malaysian travelers. Since the beginning of this year, Hainan has welcomed a remarkable 204% increase in Malaysian tourist arrivals, making Malaysia one of the fastest-growing Southeast Asian source markets for Sanya.From visa-free access and direct flights to enhanced services and multifaceted experiences, Sanya is positioning itself as a leading gateway for Malaysian tourists to China.

As the Hainan Free Trade Port continues to develop, tourism cooperation between Sanya and Malaysia is poised to deepen, evolving from one-way attraction to mutual engagement.For those planning their first trip to China, Sanya offers an ideal starting point—where azure seas, golden shores, modern amenities, and heartfelt hospitality come together to create the perfect tropical escape.

Hashtag: #SanyaTourismDevelopmentBureau

https://www.visitsanya.com/

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The developments will be led by Manrre Developments, a joint venture between GFH and Palmon Group, a seasoned UAE-based industrial conglomerate with over 40 years of institutional experience. This partnership unites proven regional expertise across acquisition, planning and design, development, execution, and operational readiness to deliver exceptional, future-ready warehouses and logistics centres.

Harry Ip, Managing Director of Gaw Capital, said, “We are thrilled to enter UAE’s flourishing industrial and logistics market, supported by strong fundamentals, the surge in structural demand driven by government-led initiatives, and heightened global interest in the logistics and industrial asset class. Leveraging the expertise from GFH Partners, this partnership positions us as one of Asia’s leading forerunners in delivering prime industrial facilities in the UAE, providing investors with exposure to a fundamentally undersupplied market.”

Nael Mustafa, CEO of GFH Partners, commented, “GFH Partners brings on-the-ground specialists, experienced local operators, and a strong track record managing logistics and industrial assets across the GCC. This joint venture allows us to scale that regional expertise even further, capitalizing on the UAE’s robust industrial growth trajectory. Through this partnership with Gaw Capital, we are combining regional insight with global capability to unlock new opportunities in the UAE’s expanding industrial and logistics sector.”

The Platform is being launched at a time of strong macroeconomic momentum, supported by the UAE’s long-term development strategies including the Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Majority of these initiatives are aimed at accelerating industrial diversification, attracting FDI, and expanding logistics infrastructure. The local government offers a list of pro-business regulatory and fiscal policies, including tax exemptions, customs duty exemption, simplified regulations in 40+ free zones, and relaxed foreign ownership limitation, to accelerate logistics demand and investment. Furthermore, the population of the UAE has experienced dramatic growth and is expected to reach 12.2 million by 2030, driven by the long-term residency incentives (e.g. Golden Visa), competitive tax regime, openings of prestigious school campuses for expatriate professional and family relocation.

Demand for logistics and industrial assets remains robust, supported by a persistent supply–demand imbalance. Dubai’s warehouse and logistics occupancy currently exceeds 97%, with rental rates increasing 33% year-on-year. The formation of the Platform will mark Gaw Capital’s first geographic footprint in the logistics sector in the UAE, demonstrating its global network and cross-border expertise in accessing industrial and logistics investments ahead of the curve.

Gaw Capital has established a robust logistics footprint across China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Australia, with investments in 39 projects totalling approximately 3.8 million sqm of GFA. As of Q3 2025, Gaw Capital manages over US$3.4 billion in assets under management in its global logistics portfolio.

Since 2014, the firm has acquired, developed, and managed a substantial portfolio of modern logistics facilities with over 3 million sqm of GFA across China, supported by a team of around 100 professionals through 4 investment vehicles. Leveraging its deep expertise, Gaw Capital has expanded into other APAC markets through strategic partnerships, acquiring high-quality assets in key metropolitan hubs. Recent investments include seven logistics assets in Greater Tokyo (nearly 250,000 sqm GFA), one in Seoul (over 75,000 sqm GFA), two in Vietnam (over 210,000 sqm GFA) and six urban industrial and logistics warehouses in Sydney (over 45,000 sqm GFA). The firm’s in-house teams and operating partners deliver value-added services across the logistics value chain, including development, construction, leasing, and property management.
Hashtag: #GawCapitalPartners #GFHPartners

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About Gaw Capital Partners

Based in Asia, Gaw Capital Partners is a multi-asset investment management firm focusing on real estate, growth equity, private credit and infrastructure markets globally.

Since its inception in 2005, the firm has raised seven commingled funds targeting Asia Pacific, alongside value-add /opportunistic funds in the U.S., a Pan-Asia Hospitality Fund, a European Hospitality Fund, a Growth Equity Fund and a Credit Fund. It also manages credit strategies and separate account direct investments globally.

Gaw Capital has consistently generated high yields by revitalizing underperforming assets, enhancing value through creative financing solutions and leveraging deep expertise in capital allocation.

Since 2005, the firm has managed US$35.8 billion in assets and raised US$24.4 billion in equity as of Q2 2025.

About GFH Partners Ltd.

GFH Partners Ltd. (“GFH Partners”) is the DIFC-based global asset management subsidiary of GFH Financial Group B.S.C. (“GFH”). Headquartered in Dubai International Financial Centre and regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, GFH Partners is dedicated to real estate investment and asset management across diverse markets. With assets under management exceeding US$7 billion and investments spanning the US, UK, and GCC. GFH Partners focuses on strategic partnerships and innovative real estate solutions, reinforcing its role as a leading player in global asset management.

Bahrain has lowered the minimum real estate investment needed to secure its 10-year Golden Residency visa from BD 200,000 to BD 130,000. The adjustment by the Ministry of Interior’s Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs is expected to boost interest in premium properties and make the residency scheme more accessible to a wider group of investors.

Under the revised threshold, people purchasing property worth at least BD 130,000 now qualify for long-term residence. Previously this benefit was available only to those investing BD 200,000 or more. The Golden Residency programme — launched in 2022 — offers a 10-year renewable permit that allows holders to work, sponsor family members, and enter and exit the kingdom freely. Those migrating under the scheme need not tie their status to an employer or lock in property ownership permanently.

The change may prove timely given growing competition in Gulf real-estate markets. Experts point out that the lower entry cost could reshape demand patterns, especially among mid-to-high net-worth expatriates seeking a base in the Gulf without committing the higher investment required by rival regional programmes. Real estate brokers report a noticeable uptick in enquiries from foreign nationals since the announcement — many exploring apartments and villas that now meet the updated investment threshold.

The authorities emphasised that despite the relaxed investment criteria, the high standards of the Golden Residency system remain intact. Investors must meet all documentation and qualification processes managed by the Ministry of Interior. Other pathways to qualify — including employment of a certain tenure and salary, retirement income or official recognition of exceptional talents — remain unaffected.

For property developers and brokers, the revised threshold may translate into renewed velocity in Bahrain’s high-end property segment. Several luxury residential projects are now being re-marketed, stressing that units previously deemed beyond reach now fall within qualification range. This could lead to increased sales volume, stronger investor inflows, and potentially an uptick in real-estate pricing.

Gulf-region expatriates assessing residency options have long compared the Kingdom’s Golden Residency with similar visas in neighbouring states. The reduced investment bar adds appeal to Bahrain’s model — with its combination of long-term residency, flexibility of employment, opportunity for family sponsorship and comparatively modest financial commitment.