By Nantoo Banerjee It does not make sense for India to deplete its hard-earned foreign currency reserves to temporarily protect the Rupee’s exchange value. In fact, Indian Rupee’s downturn vis-à-vis other major currencies has not adversely impacted the country’s impressive economic growth, at least for the present. On the contrary, it has made exports cheaper […]
Weather conditions across the UAE are set to turn more unsettled on Sunday, with cloud build-up, spells of rain in some areas and dusty winds affecting visibility, according to official forecasts.
The National Centre of Meteorology has said the day is expected to be partly cloudy at times, becoming occasionally overcast as convective clouds develop over eastern and southern parts of the country. These cloud formations may bring rainfall, particularly over mountainous areas, while conditions elsewhere are likely to remain variable through the day.
Forecasters indicated that surface winds will play a key role in shaping conditions. Winds are expected to be light to moderate at times, freshening during the day and occasionally becoming strong, especially in open areas and over the sea. These winds could stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility and making driving conditions challenging on exposed roads.
Temperatures are forecast to show noticeable contrasts between inland, coastal and mountainous regions. Daytime highs are expected to remain warm across much of the country, though increased cloud cover may moderate peak temperatures in some areas. Cooler conditions are anticipated over higher ground, particularly during the night and early morning, as cloud cover and shifting winds influence local weather patterns.
Humidity levels are also expected to fluctuate, with higher readings forecast overnight and into the morning, especially along coastal and northern areas. Meteorologists have cautioned that this may lead to mist or fog formation in isolated locations, further affecting visibility during early travel hours.
Marine conditions are expected to be unsettled as well. Seas in the Arabian Gulf are forecast to range from moderate to rough at times, particularly as winds strengthen. Conditions in the Sea of Oman are expected to be slight to moderate, though boat operators have been advised to monitor updates as conditions can change quickly with shifting winds and cloud activity.
Aviation authorities and transport officials have urged travellers to stay informed about weather developments, particularly those planning road trips or marine activities. Reduced visibility due to dust and the possibility of rainfall in certain regions may disrupt travel schedules and outdoor plans.
Meteorologists say the developing weather pattern reflects seasonal transitions that often bring increased atmospheric instability. Convective cloud formation typically occurs when surface heating combines with moisture and upper-level disturbances, leading to vertical cloud growth and the possibility of showers. Such systems are often localised, meaning some areas may see rainfall while others remain dry.
Emergency services and municipal authorities have reiterated standard safety advice during periods of unsettled weather. Motorists are urged to slow down during dusty or rainy conditions, maintain safe distances and use headlights when visibility drops. Residents in areas prone to water accumulation are advised to remain cautious if showers develop.
Farmers and outdoor workers have also been advised to plan activities carefully, as sudden changes in wind strength or rainfall could affect working conditions. For coastal communities and fishing operators, sea conditions warrant close attention, particularly during periods when winds strengthen unexpectedly.
The National Centre of Meteorology continues to monitor conditions around the clock using satellite imagery, radar systems and ground-based observations. Officials have emphasised that forecasts are updated regularly as new data becomes available, and residents are encouraged to follow official channels for timely information.
By K Raveendran Gold’s surge has turned a long-running Indian household instinct into a global macro trade. With spot prices pressing above the $4,500 an ounce mark late in 2025 and year-to-date gains running above 70 percent, the metal is headed for its strongest annual performance since 1979. The question now animating dealing rooms as […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Gold, silver and platinum prices pushed to record levels at the close of the year, extending a powerful rally driven by geopolitical strains, a softer US dollar and thin trading conditions that magnified price swings across commodities markets. Spot gold climbed as much as 1.6% on Friday to trade above $4,540 an ounce, a level unseen before, while spot silver for immediate delivery […]
CachyOS is moving beyond its reputation as a desktop-focused Arch-based Linux distribution by outlining plans for a hardened server image aimed at improving performance, security and operational stability in production environments. The initiative, confirmed by the project’s developers in community briefings and development notes, signals an effort to position CachyOS as a credible option for administrators seeking finely tuned Linux systems without extensive manual optimisation. Known primarily […]
In partnership with SBS, Australia’s multicultural and multilingual public broadcaster, Coca-Cola delivered a 24-hour Christmas Day broadcast of heartfelt carols and messages of gratitude, bringing Filipino families closer to loved ones working in Australia this festive season.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 December 2025 –For millions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), Christmas carries a quiet longing: another year spent celebrating from thousands of miles away. This year, Coca-Cola set out to bring the warmth of home back to them through SoundOfHome.FM, a 24-hour Christmas broadcast that turned Australia’s airwaves into a powerful audio love letter from families in the Philippines, connecting people across thousands of miles.
The holiday season is meant to be joyful, yet for many OFWs, the weight of distance can dim the spirit they work so hard to sustain for others. Grounded in the global Christmas insight that “the pressures of the holidays steal the Christmas spirit from the true givers,” Coca-Cola sought to uplift these unsung heroes in a way that only Coca-Cola could: through the familiar, comforting Sounds of Home.
More than an airwave takeover, SoundOfHome.FM became an emotional conduit, a continuous stream of Caroloke (carol + karaoke), touching dedications, and heartfelt messages of gratitude recorded by families across the Philippines dedicated for the loved ones they miss every day. It allowed love to travel across oceans in the most human way possible.
“This initiative comes from a place of deep respect for the people who give so much of themselves from far away, a recognition of their immense, yet quiet sacrifices,” shared Francis Izon Reyes, Coca-Cola Marketing Director for ASEAN & South Pacific. “We know that during the holidays, the distance and not being with family can feel heavier than ever. With SoundOfHome.FM, we wanted to bring a moment of comfort, a small piece of home to Filipinos overseas – a familiar voice, a favourite carol, something to remind them that their sacrifice, love, and dedication are seen, valued, and deeply appreciated. That is the real spirit of Christmas, and we are honoured to help bring it to life.”
The groundwork started weeks before Christmas Day, where Coca-Cola brought the Philippines together through a nationwide Caroloke Caravan —visiting key cities and major Pasko (Christmas) Festivals to help families record personalised messages and carols. From children singing their parents’ favourite Christmas songs to spouses whispering the ‘thank you’ they’ve held onto all year, each message carried profound emotional weight.
Families also had access to a digital platform where they could upload dedications remotely. A unique notification system ensured OFWs received personalised alerts inviting them to tune in once their family’s message was scheduled to air, guaranteeing the moment would reach its intended recipient.
The 24-hour broadcast went on air from 6pm on Christmas Eve to 6pm on Christmas Day, bringing festive cheer to listeners throughout the broadcast. It was a day of celebration and nostalgia, a reminder that even when ocean separate families, the sound of home can still find a way.
Coca-Cola also released a powerful Christmas film titled, ‘Sound of Home’. Filmed across Australia, it captures real, authentic reactions from OFWs as they hear their families’ voices mid-shift: a mechanic wiping away tears inside a garage, a convenience store clerk stunned into silence, a kitchen hand breaking into a smile that says everything. These moments reveal a simple truth — sometimes, hearing someone you love is enough to feel home again.
Reyes added, “Our simple wish is that with this project, we hope we were able to bring even a moment of warmth to those spending Christmas far from home. If the Sound of Home helped one person feel remembered even for a few seconds, then we’ve done something meaningful this season.”
Nikhil Panjwani, Executive Creative Director Ogilvy @WPP OpenX, the creative agency supporting the campaign, commented, “Christmas is about togetherness, but for millions of OFWs, it’s defined by distance. SoundOfHome.FM was our way of using something as simple as radio to bring families closer — if only for a moment — on a day when it matters most. We couldn’t shorten the distance — but we did close the silence with a 24-hour love letter, in audio form.”
The Sound of Home initiative reinforces the Coca-ColaTM brand’s longstanding belief in the power of human connection. By uplifting those who give so much of themselves during the holidays, Coca-Cola celebrates the real magic of Christmas — the simple yet profound moments that bring us back to one another.
Even when families are oceans apart, the feeling of home can still find its way through.
Watch the Sound of Home film on YouTube or visit SoundOfHome.FM to learn more. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get the latest news about the brand.
Hashtag: #Coca-Cola
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Coca-Cola ASEAN & South Pacific
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. The Coca-Cola ASEAN and South Pacific (ASP) operating unit serves 25 diverse countries across Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. We offer a diverse portfolio of great-tasting beverages including sparkling beverages, water, juices, dairy, nutrition, sports, and tea. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities, and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices, and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain.
Together with our bottling partners, we help bring economic opportunity to local communities across the region.
WPP Open X is a bespoke global agency model created in November 2021 for The Coca-Cola Company that’s integrated at its core and unprecedented in its scale. Our work spans across over 200 brands in 195 countries and provides access to the entire agency network and the best talent, capabilities and resources in and outside of WPP. Combining scale and agility, WPP Open X supercharges creativity and is a multiplier for growth and innovation.
As Web Summit Qatar approaches, we spoke with Marina Levina, CEO of WISH, an international communications agency, about several persistent myths around PR. “During this marathon season of startup and investor events from Web Summit and Slush to GITEX Global, we at WISH keep hearing the same assumptions about PR repeated over and over again. Many of them sound reasonable at first, but in practice, they hold […]
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 December 2025 – As Malaysians gear up for multiple financial commitments in the upcoming weeks and months, especially during the year-end holidays, back-to-school and double festive season, AEON Bank (M) Berhad, Malaysia’s first digital Islamic bank, strengthens its commitment to financial inclusion by offering accessible support through its Personal Financing-i (PF-i).
From December 2025 till March 2026, the bustling seasons present convergence of multiple spending needs for many households. Acknowledging that this might raise the need for flexible liquidity, AEON Bank provides a solution to address such budgetary constraints in the form of the PF-i; an inclusive, hassle-free financing facility, easily accessible via its digital banking app.
Optimising a Risk-Based Pricing (RBP) framework to determine a competitive and personalised profit rate, AEON Bank ensures that customers can seamlessly apply for PF-i online, as long as they are Malaysian citizens aged 18 to 55, with a minimum monthly gross income of RM2,500 – be it salaried employees or self-employed individuals, freelancers, as well as gig economy workers.
Aligned with Shariah banking principles, PF-i offers financing facility from RM1,000 up to RM100,000 with flexible tenure options ranging from 3 to 84 months, allowing for repayments tailored to individual budget needs. The Flat Profit Rate starting from 3.88% p.a. and a nominal Wakalah Fee of RM1 is applicable upon acceptance.
The entire process, from the application to fund disbursement are all managed online via the AEON Bank app. This simplifies the process and eliminates the need for physical paperwork or branch visits. To apply for PF-i, customers simply need to follow these steps :
Download the AEON Bank app and activate the Savings Account-i, prior to applying for PF-i.
Step 2 : Eligibility check and employment details
Applicants must be Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above, earning a minimum monthly gross income of RM2,500 – either as salaried employees, self-employed or gig workers.
Step 3 : Financing selection
Select the preferred financing amount ranging from RM1,000 up to RM100,000 and flexible repayment tenure, with options between 3 to 84 months.
Step 4 : Supporting document submission
Upload the latest EPF (KWSP) statement, reflecting the latest consecutive 6-months contributions (for salaried workers) or latest consecutive 6-month bank statement (for self-employed/gig workers).
Step 5 : Approval and fund disbursement
Applications will be processed immediately and upon approval, funds will be disbursed directly into the applicant’s AEON Bank Savings Account-i. Repayments will be automatically deducted via monthly auto-debit.
PF-i enables Malaysians to access a Shariah compliant financing facility to ease their needs; be it an emergency financial support, family budget constraint, small renovation, vehicle repair or a much needed financial aid to bridge the temporary cashflow gaps.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
AEON Bank (M) Berhad
AEON Bank (M) Berhad is the first digital Islamic bank in Malaysia, licensed and regulated by Bank Negara Malaysia and the Ministry of Finance. Officially launched on 26 May 2024, we currently offer a suite of Shariah-compliant products and services under the Personal Banking and Business Banking (AEON Bank Biz).
Our Personal Banking offerings are 100% accessible via the AEON Bank app, namely the deposit Savings Account-i, AEON Bank x Visa Debit Card-i, Personal Financing-i, Term Deposit-i, Savings Pots, DuitNow QR, utility bill payments, personal financial management and budgeting tools with Neko Sensei, and a range of digital payment services with strategic partners and merchants, as well as Neko Missions, Malaysia’s first gamified digital banking interactive rewards programme.
On 8 August 2025, AEON Bank (M) Berhad officially launched AEON Bank Biz, anchored by the Current Business Account-i and integrated cash management capabilities, with the initial onboarding of vendors from AEON Credit Service (M) Berhad and suppliers within the broader AEON ecosystem. The targeted approach is designed to create an integrated value chain linking AEON’s retail and financial services networks, supporting strategic growth and greater inclusivity. AEON Bank Biz offers streamlined processes for account onboarding, credit assessments and financial services, utilising AI-driven fintech solutions to enable simplified procedures, faster approvals, and an enhanced digital banking experience for business owners and entrepreneurs. AEON Bank Biz’s products and services will soon be extended to more local businesses and entrepreneurs across Malaysia.
Being part of the AEON Group conglomerate, AEON Bank (M) Berhad is equally held by AEON Financial Service Co. Ltd. (AFS Japan) and AEON Credit Service (M) Berhad (ACSM). AFS Japan is responsible for the AEON Group’s financial services businesses, with strong roots in the retail sector which operates in Japan and 10 countries across Asia and it is. AEON Group is Japan’s largest retail group and it is a pure holding company that comprises eight core businesses.
AEON Group Malaysia consists of several entities, namely, AEON Co. (M) Bhd, AEON Credit Service (M) Berhad, AEON Bank (M) Berhad, AEON BiG (M) Sdn Bhd, AEON Fantasy (M) Sdn Bhd, AEON Delight (M) Sdn Bhd, AEON Global Supply Chain Sdn Bhd and Malaysian AEON Foundation (MAF). AEON Group has been a recognizable household brand with more than 200 years of history and evolution in Japan since the Edo era, along with 4 decades of growth in Malaysia, providing consumers with daily financial solutions and diversified retail convenience.
Our cloud native agility and AI optimisation, combined with the strength of our Shariah DNA, Malaysian roots and Japanese heritage are our distinguishing factors, while the integration with the AEON ecosystem gives us a competitive advantage of being the only bank in Malaysia with its own nationwide retail network. On top of that, AEON Points loyalty programme offers customers value-added benefits and meaningful rewards, as the AEON Points can be redeemed into cash value, deposited directly into customers’ AEON Bank Savings Account-i.
AEON Bank (M) Berhad is committed to provide accessible financial solutions for Malaysians and we aim to empower the community in pursuing their financial aspirations and achieve economic independence, hence fostering a more inclusive financial future for all. We will continue to contribute towards the Islamic banking development in the region and the nation’s digital economy.
By K Raveendran As 2026 approaches, the global oil market is heading into a year that could decisively reshape price dynamics, fiscal planning in producing states, and energy security calculations for importing economies. The defining feature of the coming year is not demand destruction or geopolitical shock, but the growing weight of surplus supply. Market […]
By Umesh Sangaralingam The influx of private capital into Middle East markets is securing the region’s place as an evolving global investment hub. With sovereign wealth funds, institutional investors, family offices, and fund managers all increasing allocations, capital commitments are increasing at scale—but it’s not an equal field of opportunity for private investment firms in the region. Capital isn’t the sole defining factor that’s separating private […]
Thailand is moving quickly to reshape the digital map of Southeast Asia, with a surge in data centre construction and artificial intelligence investment shifting the country from a long-standing data transit role to a regional convergence point. New facilities clustered around Bangkok, Chonburi and the Eastern Economic Corridor are altering traffic flows, shortening latency across borders and drawing cloud, AI and content providers seeking scale outside established hubs.
The expansion reflects a change in how data moves across the region. Historically, much east-west traffic between South Asia, Greater China and the Pacific routed through Singapore before fanning out. With hyperscale campuses multiplying in Thailand, workloads are increasingly being processed and stored closer to end users, easing congestion and improving resilience. Network operators say the shift is visible in peering arrangements and cross-border fibre utilisation, with Bangkok emerging as a preferred interconnection point.
Policy has been a key driver. Authorities have offered investment incentives, fast-tracked permits and clarified power and land-use rules to attract large campuses. Grid upgrades and new renewable capacity have been prioritised to address the energy intensity of AI-ready facilities. The strategy aligns with a broader push to anchor higher-value digital services domestically, from cloud platforms and analytics to language models and industry-specific AI tools.
Global technology firms are responding. Cloud providers including Google, Microsoft and Amazon Web Services have expanded or announced investments to serve regional customers from Thai infrastructure, while chipmakers and systems integrators are working with local partners to deploy accelerated computing suited to AI training and inference. Industry executives cite Thailand’s central geography, improving power availability and maturing regulatory environment as decisive factors.
Domestic players are also scaling up. Telecom operators and property developers have formed joint ventures to build carrier-neutral sites, while energy companies are pairing data centres with solar and gas assets to stabilise supply. Universities and research institutes are increasing AI programmes to address talent gaps, with a focus on data engineering, cybersecurity and model governance. The goal is to ensure that infrastructure growth translates into local capability rather than pass-through capacity.
Competition across the region remains intense. Singapore retains strengths in finance, regulation and dense interconnection, but land and power constraints have pushed expansion elsewhere. Malaysia and Indonesia are adding capacity to serve fast-growing domestic markets, while Vietnam is drawing manufacturing-linked digital workloads. Against that backdrop, Thailand is positioning itself as a neutral aggregation point serving multiple neighbours within ASEAN, balancing scale with proximity.
Connectivity improvements underpin the shift. New submarine cable routes landing on both coasts, alongside terrestrial links to neighbouring countries, are diversifying paths and reducing dependence on a single choke point. Operators say this redundancy matters as enterprises distribute AI workloads across regions for cost, performance and regulatory reasons. Financial services, e-commerce and media firms are increasingly adopting multi-cloud strategies that favour locations offering reliable interconnection.
AI demand is shaping design choices. Facilities are being built with higher power densities, advanced cooling and space for accelerated hardware to support model training, while edge nodes closer to population centres handle inference and latency-sensitive tasks. This layered approach is changing how content delivery, language services and real-time analytics are deployed across Southeast Asia.
By Ashis Biswas How serious is the slogan for wresting the seven sister states in India’s northeast region, raised by Islamic extremists in Bangladesh, for New Delhi? For a proper assessment of the political challenge this poses for India, a brief study of background information is necessary. Bangladesh sought to revive old links with Pakistan […]
A dramatic concept video portraying a proposed “Dubai Air Hotel” by Emirates has ignited global attention, depicting a full-scale Airbus A380 mounted atop a 580-metre, 125-storey tower in Dubai. The vision, priced at an estimated $3 billion, imagines an aviation-themed landmark that would combine ultra-luxury hospitality with a striking architectural statement, reinforcing the city’s reputation for headline-grabbing development. The footage shows the double-deck superjumbo positioned like a […]
Docker has made its enterprise-grade hardened container images freely available to the global developer community, marking a significant shift in how secure software supply chains are built and maintained. The company confirmed that images once restricted to paid enterprise customers are now open source and released under the Apache License 2.0, allowing unrestricted use, modification and redistribution. The move centres on Docker Hardened Images, a curated set […]
Kenya’s leadership has renewed its push to project the country as a future developed economy, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki rejecting claims that the ambition is unrealistic and arguing that structural reforms, demographic momentum and targeted investment are laying the groundwork for first-world status. Speaking at a public forum on economic transformation, Kindiki said scepticism about Kenya’s trajectory often ignored long-term planning frameworks and measurable gains in […]
Saudi Arabia is preparing to lift crude oil shipments at the start of 2026, a move that underscores mounting concerns about excess supply as global demand growth remains uneven. Allocations to buyers across Asia, Europe and North America are set to rise, according to trade and shipping data reviewed by market participants, pointing to a more assertive sales posture by the world’s largest exporter after months of […]
Nvidia has unveiled Nemotron 3 Open, a new family of large language models designed for agentic artificial intelligence, marking a shift in how the company is addressing enterprise demand for systems that can plan, reason and act across multiple tools and agents rather than respond with single-turn answers. The release underscores Nvidia’s push to balance scale with efficiency as businesses seek AI that can operate reliably within […]
ADQ and the Gates Foundation have announced a partnership aimed at scaling the responsible use of artificial intelligence and education technology to improve learning outcomes for children across sub-Saharan Africa, marking one of the most ambitious cross-sector efforts to apply advanced technology to foundational education systems in the region.
The agreement was unveiled on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Finance Week during a visit to the UAE by Bill Gates, chair of the Gates Foundation, underscoring the growing role of Abu Dhabi-based sovereign investors in global development initiatives that extend beyond traditional infrastructure and capital deployment.
At its core, the partnership seeks to blend ADQ’s experience as a sovereign investor focused on critical infrastructure and global supply chains with the Gates Foundation’s long-standing work in education, health, and technology-driven development. The collaboration is designed to accelerate the deployment of AI-enabled tools that support teachers, personalise learning, and strengthen education systems while addressing concerns around data privacy, equity, and long-term sustainability.
ADQ–Gates alliance targets AI-powered learning systems as governments and development agencies look for scalable solutions to persistent gaps in literacy, numeracy, and teacher capacity across sub-Saharan Africa. Despite progress in school enrolment over the past two decades, learning outcomes across much of the region continue to lag global averages, with large disparities between urban and rural areas.
Officials familiar with the partnership say the focus will extend beyond hardware or software procurement. Programmes are expected to prioritise teacher support platforms, curriculum-aligned digital content, and AI-driven assessment tools that can function in low-bandwidth environments. Emphasis is also being placed on building local capacity so that education ministries and institutions can manage and adapt systems without long-term dependence on external providers.
The Gates Foundation has invested heavily in education technology across Africa, backing initiatives that use data analytics and adaptive learning models to improve classroom instruction. Its approach has increasingly shifted towards ensuring that digital tools complement teachers rather than replace them, a principle that is expected to guide the collaboration with ADQ.
For ADQ, the partnership aligns with a broader strategy of deploying capital and expertise into sectors that underpin economic resilience and human development. While the Abu Dhabi-based group is widely known for investments in ports, logistics, food security, and energy, it has expanded its scope to include technology-driven solutions with global impact, particularly in emerging markets.
Bill Gates, speaking during his visit to Abu Dhabi, highlighted the transformative potential of AI when applied responsibly to education systems under strain. He noted that advances in machine learning and language models can help teachers tailor lessons to individual students and identify learning gaps early, provided the technology is designed with clear safeguards and local realities in mind.
Education specialists caution that AI adoption in low-income settings carries risks if implemented without adequate oversight. Challenges include uneven access to electricity and connectivity, limited digital literacy among educators, and the potential for algorithmic bias when systems are trained on data that does not reflect local contexts. The partners say governance frameworks and pilot-based rollouts will be central to mitigating these risks.
The collaboration comes at a time when African governments are under pressure to modernise education systems while managing tight budgets and rapidly growing school-age populations. Multilateral lenders and philanthropic organisations have increasingly encouraged public–private partnerships to bridge funding and expertise gaps, particularly in technology deployment.
Abu Dhabi Finance Week has become a platform for such announcements, reflecting the emirate’s ambition to position itself as a hub for global capital addressing development challenges. ADQ’s involvement signals a model in which sovereign investors participate not only as financiers but as strategic partners shaping long-term outcomes.
People briefed on the initiative say initial programmes will focus on a select group of countries, working closely with education ministries to align AI tools with national curricula and policy objectives. Over time, successful models could be adapted across the region, with lessons shared among participating governments.
The Gates Foundation has previously stressed that technology alone cannot fix systemic issues in education, such as overcrowded classrooms or shortages of trained teachers. As a result, the partnership is expected to integrate AI solutions with broader reforms, including teacher training and data-informed policymaking.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 December 2025 – Hongkong Land is delighted to partner with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) to bring “Winter Wonderland in Central” as part of Hong Kong WinterFest 2025. Hongkong Land’s philosophy, Experience is central™, takes on new meaning as we join the city-wide festivities illuminating the heart of Hong Kong. This collaboration builds on a cherished legacy that began six decades ago, when Chater Road hosted the city’s first large-scale festive lighting display in 1965, bringing holiday magic to Central and beyond.
From now until 4 January, 2026, Central is lit up where Prince’s Building and seven other iconic buildings become the canvas for the “Immersive Light Show,” activating both the Company’s properties and the public realm that connects them. Along Chater Road, a golden canopy of Starlight Boulevard, Hong Kong’s largest three-dimensional outdoor light canopy, creates a magical pathway with cascading lights and illuminated figures marking different years of celebration. This enchanting boulevard leads to LANDMARK ATRIUM’s “Noëlia at LANDMARK,” where the Company’s largest ever installation features an 11-metre lighthouse and an interactive Wishing Lake. At Statue Square Garden, Christmas Town dazzles with a majestic, 6-storey high Christmas tree. Visitors can embrace the holiday spirit at the Christmas market, which offers not only festive workshops but also seasonal food & beverages and unique artisanal products. The experience is further enriched by Santa’s Workshop craft sessions and Rudolph’s Tour curated by Hongkong Land, which weaves together Central’s enchanting heritage and festive traditions.
Winter Wonderland in Central – Experience Highlights:
Starlight Boulevard on Chater Road – Hong Kong’s largest three-dimensional outdoor light canopy transforms Chater Road into a magical pathway. Over 30 trees and pedestrian footbridges shimmer with twinkling lights, while a golden canopy at the entrance to Chater House features illuminated figures marking different years of celebration, casting a warm glow, inviting visitors toward LANDMARK ATRIUM.
Santa’s Food Market & Christmas Boulevard – Discover a charming Christmas market featuring 12 specialty chalets at Statue Square Garden, where Santa’s Food Market & Christmas Boulevard comes alive with festive flavors and holiday treasures. Visitors can indulge in gourmet offerings while exploring a curated selection of artisanal products and holiday décor – all set against the backdrop of a 6-storey high Christmas tree. The magical setting is complete with surprise appearances by Santa Claus, and whimsical toy-themed decorations.
Santa’s Workshop – Creative, hands-on workshops for all ages, brought to you by Hongkong Land. From crafting ornaments and personalised gifts to unique experiences that make perfect presents, these sessions add a personal touch to holiday merrymaking. Highlights include family-friendly activities such as the Christmas Tree Mosaic Workshop and Snow Globe Workshop, as well as distinctive options like the Christmas Aroma Stone Workshop, Upcycled Denim Christmas Tree Workshop, and the Fortune Cat Terrarium Workshop.
Rudolph’s Tour –Curated by Hongkong Land, these heritage tour blend the season’s magic with the timeless spirit of Hong Kong. Where history meets celebration, the story of Hongkong Land’s lasting imprint on the city’s skyline unfolds. This journey offers a fresh perspective on Central, rich with stories, traditions, and hidden gems.
Immersive Light Show – Every night starting at 7:30pm, Prince’s Building and seven other iconic landmarks will glisten in a spectacular show, featuring a blend of 3D projections, festive animations and music.
Noëlia at LANDMARK: Joy Begins with Giving
Festive transformations lead the way to the much-anticipated annual installation at LANDMARK Atrium: “Noëlia at LANDMARK: Joy Begins with Giving.” This enchanting lakeside village is crowned by an 11-metre lighthouse, with a floating airship overhead and Noëlia’s beloved villagers guiding visitors through a landscape filled with wonders. Highlights include Hong Kong’s largest interactive Wishing Lake – Lake Lumière, the exhilarating Starlit Slide, and the Festive Photo Studio, offering endless opportunities for joy and discovery. Every 30 minutes, watch the village come alive in a captivating light show, as Noëlia shimmers with brilliance, bathing the village in sparkling wonder.
Join us this winter for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Central. Visit https://winterwonderlandincentral.com/en for the latest updates and event details.Hashtag: #HongkongLand
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Hongkong Land
Hongkong Land is a major listed property development, investment and management group. It focuses on developing, owning and managing ultra-premium mixed-use real estate in Asian gateway cities, featuring Grade A office, luxury retail, residential and hospitality products. With over US$40 billion assets under management, Hongkong Land’s ultra-premium mixed-use real estate footprint spans over 1.28 million sq. m. in operation and 1 million sq.m under development, with flagship mixed-use projects in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Its properties hold industry leading green building certifications and attract the world’s foremost companies and luxury brands. Established in 1889, Hongkong Land takes a long-term view, investing significantly alongside our capital partners and concentrating our portfolio where we can create the most value for tenants, customers and investors. Hongkong Land Holdings Limited has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Singapore and Bermuda. Hongkong Land is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.
The United Arab Emirates has consolidated its standing in 2025 as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, underpinned by a surge in non-oil activity, sustained investment inflows and a regulatory framework designed to attract capital and talent. Data released through the year point to broad-based expansion across trade, manufacturing, logistics, tourism, finance and technology, reinforcing a shift away from hydrocarbons as the primary engine of growth.
Non-oil foreign trade climbed 24.5 per cent in the first half of 2025 to AED1.7 trillion, a pace that far exceeds the prevailing global trade growth rate. The increase reflects rising re-exports, stronger demand from Asia, Europe and Africa, and the UAE’s role as a commercial bridge linking major markets. Officials have highlighted gains in machinery, electronics, precious metals, food products and pharmaceuticals, supported by expanded port capacity, faster customs procedures and new trade agreements.
Investment indicators have moved in tandem with trade. The UN Conference on Trade and Development’s World Investment Report 2025 ranked the UAE 10th globally for inbound foreign direct investment in 2024, with inflows of AED167.6 billion. That placing keeps the country among the world’s most attractive destinations for capital, alongside much larger economies, and underscores confidence in the policy environment, infrastructure and legal protections available to investors.
Economic planners attribute the momentum to a combination of structural reforms and targeted incentives. Liberalised ownership rules, long-term residency options for professionals and entrepreneurs, and streamlined licensing have lowered barriers for international firms. Specialised free zones continue to draw companies in logistics, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, fintech and digital services, while onshore jurisdictions have simplified company formation and compliance.
Non-oil GDP growth has been supported by strong domestic demand and an expanding population of skilled workers. Tourism has posted record levels of hotel occupancy and visitor spending, aided by expanded air connectivity and major events that have kept demand resilient across seasons. Retail and hospitality have benefited from rising consumer confidence, while real estate transactions have remained active across residential, commercial and industrial segments.
Manufacturing has emerged as a key contributor, with investments flowing into metals, food processing, pharmaceuticals and building materials. The push to localise supply chains and boost exports has been reinforced by incentives for advanced manufacturing and the adoption of automation and artificial intelligence. Renewable energy and clean technology projects have also attracted capital, aligning economic growth with climate commitments.
The financial sector has played a central role in channelling investment. Banks have reported healthy credit growth to businesses, while capital markets have seen new listings and debt issuance that broaden funding options. Asset managers and private equity firms have expanded regional operations, using the UAE as a base for Middle East, Africa and South Asia strategies. Regulatory clarity in digital assets and fintech has further widened the investor base.
Trade policy has complemented domestic reforms. Comprehensive economic partnership agreements have reduced tariffs and opened access to fast-growing markets, supporting exporters and logistics providers. Improved customs digitisation has shortened clearance times, enhancing the country’s competitiveness as a trans-shipment hub. The scale of non-oil trade growth indicates that these measures are translating into higher volumes rather than merely price effects.
Dubai Airports has kicked off what executives describe as one of the most extensive winter flight programmes in its history, as Dubai International and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International roll out new airline services, increased frequencies and expanded connectivity to capitalise on sharply rising travel demand. Airlines from Europe, Central Asia and the wider region are boosting capacity, while direct traffic now makes up more than half of passenger movements at DXB, a marker of strong point-to-point travel confidence that underpins the broader network growth.
The winter schedule enhancements come as carriers add new routes and upgrade equipment, signalling robust airline confidence in Dubai’s appeal as an international hub. FlyArystan has joined DXB’s network with twice-weekly flights from Aktau, Kazakhstan, and Austrian Airlines has reinstated five weekly services from Vienna, reflecting growing European engagement. Virgin Atlantic has deployed its larger A350-1000 aircraft on flights into Dubai, increasing seat capacity significantly, and British Airways has restored Airbus A380 operations from London Heathrow, reinforcing transcontinental connectivity. These moves underscore the increasing demand for direct travel to and from Dubai across key long-haul markets.
Connectivity from South Asia and the Middle East is also strengthening, with Varesh Airline initiating twice-weekly flights from Sari, Iran, and Fly Jinnah adding twice-weekly services from Lahore, enhancing point-to-point traffic flows that traditionally surge during the winter travel period. Saudi Arabia continues to be a pivotal market for both airport hubs, remaining DXB’s second-largest country market by passenger share, with combined traffic across DXB and DWC reaching millions of passengers and marking a year-on-year increase. At DWC, passenger numbers have grown sharply, reflecting its rising importance as a complementary gateway within Dubai’s aviation landscape.
DWC’s strategic role has expanded markedly as airlines take advantage of its available capacity to broaden their offerings alongside DXB operations. The airport recorded a substantial rise in passenger volumes over the year and has seen notable increases in cargo and aircraft movements, pointing to broader growth in both passenger and freight activities. Eurowings has played a significant role in this growth, launching a daily service from Stuttgart to DXB, operating a thrice-weekly service from Düsseldorf into DWC, and increasing frequencies to Berlin, Cologne and Hannover, including its Premium Bizclass product on select services.
Dubai Airports’ research leadership highlights this period as pivotal for the sector, emphasising that the breadth of the winter network reflects evolving travel patterns and confidence from airline partners. Direct traffic growth across both airports is attributed to a mix of inbound tourism, outbound resident travel and medium-term relocations, illustrating a diversified demand base that supports sustained connectivity expansion.
Industry observers point out that Europe and Central Asia have been particularly dynamic contributors to the uplift in capacity. FlyArystan’s entry into the market and Austrian Airlines’ service reinstatement exemplify the shifting landscape of global travel demand, with carriers recalibrating their networks to capture increased passenger flows. At the same time, regional carriers are leveraging expanding demand from neighbouring markets, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a central aviation node connecting different parts of the world.
Capacity enhancements on existing routes are another hallmark of this winter schedule. Carriers such as Virgin Atlantic and British Airways have not only increased frequency but also introduced larger, more efficient aircraft to meet peak season travel. This reflects a broader industry trend toward optimising fleet deployment on high-demand city pairs, balancing cost efficiency with passenger comfort.
While the expanded passenger schedule captures much of the spotlight, cargo operations have also seen parallel growth, particularly at DWC where infrastructure and available slots have encouraged carriers and freight operators to scale up activities. Cargo volumes have continued to rise alongside passenger growth, underscoring the dual role of Dubai’s airports as critical hubs for both people and goods movements.
Airport officials note that the broader travel ecosystem — including international business events, sports fixtures, cultural festivals and holiday travel — continues to stimulate demand, complementing the seasonal drivers that historically shape winter travel patterns. This diversified demand mix has provided airlines with a degree of resilience as they invest in expanded services and plan capacity well into the year ahead.
By K Raveendran Oil prices slipping below $60 a barrel for the first time since February 2021 and a sharp easing in European gas prices mark more than a cyclical downturn in commodities. They signal a rapid repricing of geopolitical risk at a moment when diplomacy, rather than escalation, has begun to dominate market psychology. […]
Greenlogue/AP Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power has entered into a cooperation framework with the African Development Bank aimed at mobilising as much as $5 billion for sustainable energy and water projects across Africa, signalling an expansion of private capital participation in the continent’s infrastructure financing landscape. The agreement sets out a pathway to identify, develop and finance projects focused on electricity access, water security and low-carbon investment, with […]
Conviction has entered the fast-growing digital wagering space with the launch of what it describes as the first prediction market platform designed specifically for the Native Asian market, positioning itself at the intersection of decentralised finance, artificial intelligence and cross-chain infrastructure. Built on ZetaChain, the platform aims to allow users to place and settle predictions across multiple blockchains without relying on wrapped assets or custodial bridges, a […]
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By K Raveendran As 2026 approaches, the global oil market is heading into a year that could decisively reshape price dynamics, fiscal planning in producing states, and energy security calculations for importing economies. The defining feature of the coming year is not demand destruction or geopolitical shock, but the growing weight of surplus supply. Market […]
