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Innovation in the Kitchen: Samsung Introduces its AI Powered Smart Fridge
Planning to launch in 2024, Samsung is coming up with a smart fridge which is equipped with AI capabilities. These smart AI features come with an internal camera that can identify specific food items and with connected apps, which suggest recipes according to what you have in stock.
With the coming of a new year, Samsung has intended to launch their Bespoke 4-Door Flex Refrigerator with AI Family Hub+ and users can also mirror their Galaxy phones to their 32 inch Family Hub touchscreen. This is not all, one can also get various different apps on the fridge’s screen, for entertainment and other purposes, like TikTok and YouTube.
This exceptional model also has a customisation feature which has another exciting feature which will modify recipes which go according to your preferred dietary choices. One can prepare gluten-free, pescatarian, dairy-free, vegan, fusion and many more to count.
One can also add expiration dates of food items, manually! This smart fridge will also notify the users before these items expire so that one can use them to ensure that there is no food wastage. It also has cameras so that one can see inside the fridge without opening the fridge.
Even though Samsung has made such smart fridges since the year 2016, this new model is seen to be the best invention of all time. Although this smart fridge still has some limitations, as Samsung claims that this fridge’s Vision AI can only recognise upto 33 food items so users are told not to expect a whole lot, at least now.
Samsung has also confirmed that they are not stopping here, they are expanding its use of AI in other home appliances, which include AI Laundry Combo washer-dryer, where one can utilise AI to automatically customise laundry cycles and inculcating user habits.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/)(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)(https://luminarytimes.com/innovation-in-the-kitchen-samsung-introduces-its-ai-powered-smart-fridge/)
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Akasa Air Elevates Global Presence with Inaugural Doha
Flights on March 28
In a significant stride towards enhancing international conneclivily. Akasa Air, a prominent Indian carrier.
has unveiled plans to initiale non-slop flight services belween Mumbai and Doha, Qatar, starling March 28.
2024. This move is poised to foster stronger lies belween the two nations. both economically and culturally.
as Akasa Air expands its foolprint on the global aviation stage.
Global Connectivity Amidst Challenging Times
In a world grappling with uncertainties and challenges in the aviation seclor due to the ongoing global
pandemic, Akasa Air's decision to embark on internalional operations reflects a resilient commitment lo
revitalise the air travel industry. The establishment of a direct link belween Mumbai and Doha not only
bolsters the airline's stralegie expansion but also contributes to the broader narralive of rejuvenating global
travel and trade.
CEO's Vision for the Future
Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, expressed his optimism about the foray into Oalar, describing il
as a pivotal phase in the airline's growth journey. Dube remarked that the international expansion.
particularly the connection between Mumbai and Doha, signifies the next chapter in Akasa Air's commitment
to providing seamless air travel, with endeavours in the Middle East considered integral to achieving the
ambitious goal of becoming one of the world's top 3o airlines by the end of this decade. This move aligns with
the broader vision of global aviation leaders striving to reconnect the world and boost economic recovery.
Strategic Fleet Expansion Amidst Recent Success
Against the backdrop of its recent success, where Akasa Air successfully launched its maiden Right
connecling Ayodhya in Ultar Pradesh with Pune in Maharashtra on February 15, the airline is making
headlines with its ambitious fleet expansion. Having placed a colossal order for 150 Boeing 737 Max aircraft in
January, valued al approximately S2o billion, the carrier is making strategic investments to meet the
escalating demand for air travel. The decision to diversify its fleet with 226 aireraft, including an earlier order
for 72 Boeing 737 Max planes in 2021, underscores Akasa Air's dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the
aviation industry while solidilying its position as a key global player.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)(https://luminarytimes.com/akasa-air-elevates-global-presence-with-inaugural-doha-flights-on-march-28/)
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Google's Rebranding : Bard Al Switches to Gemini
Gemini and the iPhone users can access this through the Google app.
Google's new AlGemini is a multimodal chalbot, which can interact with information across text, images.
code and many more to count. One can also generate images through text input with Gemini Al. Beller
believe il also translates languages with cultural nuances and with the assistance of text descriptions, it can
help in musical compositions.
Gemini changes are a hirst step to building a true Ai assistant."
There is a premium all access advanced version, where users will have to pay 1,950/-. This version comes
with many perks like 2'TB of cloud storage, unlocking Google's Al editing tools and many other useful things.
The premium version users will get to access Gemini in Does, Gmail and many other Google apps.
The free version can be accessed by visiting gemini.google.com and one just has to login using their Google
account. The free version of Bard will also lead you to the Gemini chatbol.
The vice president al Google and general manager for Google Assistant and Bard, have stated that "Google's
On Thursday, Google announced that for people who already have a Google One subscription, this price
includes the storage plans they may already be paying for and will also gel a two month free trial for the
same. This is available in more than 150 countries all around the world, but for now, the language available is
only English. but they are definitely going to add more languages including Japanese and Korean.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)(https://luminarytimes.com/googles-rebranding-bard-ai-switches-to-gemini/)
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UAE Emphasises the Need for Global Consensus on AI
Governance
In a groundbreaking address at the Dubai Assembly for Generative Al, the UAE Minister of State
for Artificial Intelligence. Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications. His Excellency Omar Al Olama, made a resounding call for global consensus on Al governance. The Minister urged
countries to expedite the development of a governance framework for Al that surpasses the time taken to establish the Paris Agreement. Al Olama emphasised the need for a fresh approach.
suggesting that rather than governing Al as a whole, governance efforts should focus on regulating the specific use cases of the technology.
Details on the Event
This landmark assembly, attended by more than 2000 individuals representing major tech giants and consultancies such as Microsoft, Deloitte, PwC, and IBM, also witnessed the launch of the
Dubai Generative Al Alliance by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF). This new alliance of technology companies aims to facilitate the rapid adoption of emerging technologies, ultimately
positioning Dubai as a world leader in tech-enabled governance.
Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of DFF, encouraged companies and innovators to join the alliance, which will concentrate its efforts on creating innovative technology pilots by harnessing Al, the metaverse, and Web3. Moreovel, we dosembly exploreu now tie global Dants sector cout redp mimense lewdrus. potentially amounting to USD 400 billion, from the generative Al boom. Experts from international tech corporations and consultancies shared insights. with PwC predicting the imminent integration of automation into workplaces. Generative Al is expected to autonomously execute everyday tasks, such as flight bookings and report generation, on a large scale within the next 18 to 20 months. Deloitte's leading digital expert emphasised that generative Al will significantly benefit nuclear fusion, climate action, and drug discovery. The industrial and pharmaceutical sectors, in particular, are poised to rapidly adapt to this emerging technology. The call for swift and innovative Al governance, as championed by the UAE, underscores the ever-increasing importance of establishing a regulatory framework that keeps pace with the evolving capabilities of Al technology, fostering responsible and beneficial applications worldwide.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)
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India's Culinary Triumph: Ranking uth in Taste Atlas*
Global Cuisine List
In the ever-evolving landscape of global gastronomy. India has emerged as a culinary powerhouse in 2023.
securing the nth spol in Tasle Allas prestigious "100 Best Cuisines in the World List." This annual revelalion. eagerly anticipaled by food enthusiasts worldwide, is more than just a ranking; it signifies a remarkable milestone for India's diverse and vibrant culinary landscape.
A Global Standout: India Surpasses Culinary Heavyweights
India's culinary heritage has triumphed over culinary heavyweights such as the USA, Thailand, and South Korea, clinching the nth position with a commendable score of 4.52-only o.o2 points behind Peru. In a league led by Italy. Japan, Greece, Portugal, and China. India's rich tapestry of flavors has firmly established
ilself among the global culinary greals, showcasing its prowess on a global stage. Yel, the recognition doesn't stop al the overall cuisine ranking. Taste Allas, renowned for its comprehensive approach, meliculously evalualed an astounding 395.205 dishes and 115.660 food products spanning various global cuisines. The rankings were delermined by the average ralings of these dishes, offering a nuanced
understanding of the depth and breadth of India's culinary finesse.
The Flavorful Triumph: Indian Dishes Shine on the Global Stage
India not only secured a prominent spol on the overall cuisine list but also left an indelible mark in the *100 Best Dishes in the World* ranking. The beloved Buller Garlic Naan claimed the 7th position with an exceptional score of 4.67, a lestament to ils widespread popularily. Following closely, the iconic Murgh Makhani, or Butler Chicken, secured the +3rd spol with a laudable score of 4.54. Additionally, the
quintessentially Indian flavors of Tikka and Tandoori resonated globally, earning the 47th and 48th positions, each boasting a score of +54. Beyond individual dishes, Taste Allas has previously acknowledged Indian landmarks such as Paragon and
Peter Cal, further solidifying India's influence in the global culinary landscape. As India's culinary stars continue lo rise, these recognitions affirm the widespread appeal and impacl of Indian cuisine on the world slage, inviting gastronomes worldwide lo savor the diverse and delectable flavors of this culinary giant.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)
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Bezos Executes a $2 Billion Amazon Stock Sale
This sale took place on Wednesday and Thursday which was one of the biggest stock sales since 2021 .Amazon has just announced that on February 2, Bezos is planning on selling as many as
$50 million shares on Amazon over the next year which can potentially make him the world’s
richest person, as he is currently the world’s second richest person with a net worth of $200
billion.
The fortune has climbed up to $22.6 billion this year and the Amazon founder has sold over $30
billion in shares since the year 2002 which comprises $20 billion combined the years 2020 and
2021.
Bezos will pay no state tax on the capital gains as he has reportedly shifted to Miami.
Bezos stepped down as the CEO of Amazon in the year 2021 in order to focus more on his other
projects which include the rocket company, Blue Origin, as well as his Philanthropy.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/)(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)(https://luminarytimes.com/bezos-executes-a-2-billion-amazon-stock-sale/)
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Sand to Cloud : Business Growth in UAE through Cloud
Adoption
Adopting cloud must be one of the best decisions UAE has made to accelerate their business growth as it is noted that 1% rise in cloud adoption will on an average lead to 0.21% growth in
GDP which is claimed to be a commendable growth rate and is three times that of the MENA region.
According to Tony Bates, who is the chief executive officer at Genesys, it is an excellent way to unlock countless opportunities by shifting to cloud where one gets enhanced efficiency, customer
services alongside making business uncomplicated and more compelling. Along with these abounding opportunities and perks of using cloud, it also comes with innumerable cyberthreats as well as legislation restrictions. But the worst that could happen is
there are chances that you might lose the loyalty and trust of your customers.
But rest assured, it is now being handled and all these inconveniences are being taken care of gradually yet significantly. This adoption of cloud will ensure that it will improve cost-
effectiveness, scalability as well as the overall efficiency with the use of a variety of services like software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and infrastructure as a service (IaaS).
The fundamental growth expands with a determination and stability towards innovation and digital transformation, and UAE’s market for cloud computing is swiftly flourishing, all credits
to their solid focus on technical innovation and digital transformation. This was also due to UAE government’s initiatives to foster a knowledge-based economy.
It is observed by many experts how UAE is expected to fast-track its digital evolution which will assist them in creating new avenues for the sake of economic growth as well as social
development through the adoption of cloud computing.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/)(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)
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Deakin University's Pioneering Venture into India: A Transformative Educational Collaboration
In a historic move, Deakin University, globally recognised among the top 1% of universities,
unveiled its GIFT City Campus in India in January 2024. This milestone underscores the robust
collaboration between the Indian and Australian Governments and Deakin University, reflecting
a commitment to providing quality education.
Founded in 1974, Deakin University's global standing is affirmed by impressive rankings in
Times Higher Education, QS, and the US News & World Report. Actively engaged in South
Asia since 1994, Deakin continues to shape the region's educational landscape through
collaborative partnerships and impactful research. In the latest rankings, Deakin maintains its
consistent presence among the world's top universities.
Cutting-Edge Business Programs at Affordable Costs
Deakin's GIFT City Campus offers local students access to postgraduate programs in business
analytics and cybersecurity, setting a new standard for affordability. At half the cost of
Australian international fees, these programs empower students in the region with world-class
education.
Global Recognition and Scholarship Initiatives
His Excellency Philip Green OAM, Australian High Commissioner to India, hailed the
inauguration as a landmark moment in bilateral relations. Deakin's Vice-Chancellor, Iain Martin,
emphasised the institution's commitment to the future by granting fully funded scholarships to
economically challenged students.
Redefining Educational Collaboration
Collaborating with IIT Madras, Deakin established a research academy and a four-year joint PhD
program, strengthening Indo-Australian ties. The initiative includes 30 scholarships in 2024,
fostering collaboration within an open innovation ecosystem and research network.
The GIFT City Campus integrates Australian education with Indian industry leaders like Infosys
and Tata Consultancy Services. With a blend of local and international faculty, state-of-the-art
facilities, and carbon-neutral commitment, the campus offers a holistic learning experience.
Deakin's GIFT City Campus provides industry-relevant postgraduate courses in Business
Analytics and Cyber Security. Priced at around INR 21 lakh, the two-year program, fast-tracked
to 18 months, combines local and international faculty expertise.
This visionary initiative marks a transformative leap in global education, empowering Indian
students and strengthening educational ties between India and Australia. Applications for
Deakin's GIFT City Campus are open, heralding a new era in international education.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)
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Qatar's Culinary Extravaganza Set to be Unveiled at Expo 2024
In a vibrant fusion of flavours and culture, Qatar is set to host the Qatar International Food
Festival from February 7-17, 2024. Positioned in the family zone of al Bidda Park and integrated into Expo 2024, this culinary spectacle promises an immersive experience, particularly
celebrating the Moroccan Year of Culture 2024.
A Gastronomic Celebration at Qatar International Food Festival
Presented by Qatar Tourism, this festival underscores the nation's dedication to fostering global cultural exchange. With a focus on the Qatar-Moroccan relationship, the event will feature a lineup of esteemed chefs, culinary luminaries, and hospitality experts. Attendees can anticipate a gastronomic journey, exploring everything from local delicacies to haute cuisine, all within the vibrant setting of Doha Expo 2024.
Beyond the culinary delights, visitors can engage in unique experiences, witness live cooking theatres, and partake in nightly fireworks displays. Chairman of Qatar Tourism, Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, underscores the event's importance, affirming that Qatar consistently demonstrates its appeal as a global tourism hub with expanded infrastructure, improved safety measures, and authentic Arabian hospitality.
Pursuing the Momentum to New Heights
The festival arrives on the heels of Qatar's success in attracting over four million guests in the preceding year, surpassing visitor numbers from the past five years. Riding the wave of positive momentum generated by the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Qatar's tourism sector has undergone
transformational initiatives. The introduction of the Hayya platform streamlines visa processes, complementing the nation's open travel policies, with 95 countries granted visas on arrival.
Peering into 2024, Qatar positions itself as a host for more than 80 unique events, encompassing the Shop Qatar, AFC Asian Cup, Katara International Arabian Horse Festival, Doha Jewellery
and Exhibition (DJWE), Autonomous e-mobility Forum, the Technology Conference Web Summit, and Annual Qatar Economic Forum, Formula 1 Grand Prix 2024.
As Qatar extends an invitation to tourists and culinary enthusiasts alike, the Qatar International Food Festival emerges as a pivotal highlight, embodying the nation's commitment to offering
diverse and compelling experiences for global travellers.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)(https://luminarytimes.com/qatars-culinary-extravaganza-set-to-be-unveiled-at-expo-2024/)
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Redefining Business Leadership: Rising Tide of Empathetic
Leadership
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, effective leadership plays a critical role in determining an organisation's success. Gone are the days when leadership solely revolved around authority and control. With control being the cornerstone of leadership in the yesteryears, things have changed in the present day.
Today, a new trend is emerging—a shift towards efficient business leadership that combines crisp decision-making with a unique focus on empathy. This article explores the growing significance of empathetic efficiency and its impact on organisational growth and employee well-being.
The Changing Paradigm of Leadership
'Traditionally, leadership was often associated with a command-and-control style, where decisions were made from the top-down. However, as businesses become more complex and interconnected, this approach proved inadequate. Today's leaders must navigate an intricate web of stakeholders, including employees, customers, shareholders. and the wider community.
In this dynamic environment, a new kind of leadership is emerging. one that prioritises empathy and efficiency in equal measure.
Efficiency: Streamlining for Success
Efficiency has long been a hallmark of effective business leadership. It involves optimising processes, resources, and time to achieve maximum output with minimum waste. In today's fast-paced and competitive world, efficiency is paramount for organisations to remain agile and innovative. However, efficiency alone can lead to a cold and mechanistic approach that disregards the human element.
The Road Ahead
The shift towards empathetic efficiency in business leadership is not just a passing trend but a fundamental transformation. As societal values evolve, stakeholders increasingly demand leaders who demonstrate authenticity, transparency, and empathy. Organisations that embrace this change will gain a competitive edge in attracting top talent, fostering innovation. and building a positive brand reputation.
To cultivate empathetic efficiency, leaders must invest in their own personal growth and development. They can seek out mentorship. attend leadership programs, and engage in continuous learning. Building self-awareness and emotional intelligence enables leaders to better understand their own biases and strengths, promoting fair decision-making and effective Collaboration.
The Bottom Line
In this era of rapid technological advancements and global interconnectedness, the need for empathetic efficiency has become even more critical. As automation and artificial intelligence continue to reshape the business landscape, leaders must find the delicate balance between leveraging these tools for increased efficiency and maintaining the human touch that fosters
connection and collaboration.
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of empathetic efficiency.
As organisations faced unprecedented challenges, leaders who demonstrated empathy and adaptability were better equipped to navigate the crisis, support their teams, and find innovative Solutions.
In conclusion, the rise of empathetic efficiency signals a transformative shift in business leadership. By combining the power of empathy with the drive for efficiency, leaders can create thriving organisations that prioritise both people and results. As we embrace this unique approach, we unlock the full potential of our teams, foster innovation, and build a sustainable
future for businesses and communities alike.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/)(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)
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Unleashing Organizational Success through Corporate Sustainability: The Power of Green Practice
In recent years, corporate sustainability has emerged as a critical factor influencing the success and the reputation of organizations. As society becomes increasingly concerned about environmental and social issues, businesses are recognizing the need to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. This article explores the effect of corporate sustainability on organizational processes and performance, highlighting the benefits and challenges associated with adopting sustainable strategies.
Enhanced Efficiency and Resource Management:
One of the primary advantages of corporate sustainability is its potential to optimize organizational processes and resource management. By implementing sustainable practices.
companies can identify and eliminate wasteful processes, reduce energy consumption, and optimize the use of resources. For example, initiatives such as recycling, energy-efficient technologies, and water conservation have immensely contributed in environmental preservation which resulted in cost savings for the organization. Sustainability-driven process improvements lead to increased efficiency and productivity, ultimately enhancing overall Performance.
trust, and encourages customer loyalty. Furthermore, studies have shown that consumers are willing to pay a premium for products and services from sustainable companies, thereby positively impacting the organization's financial performance.
Attraction and Retention of Talented Employees:
Organizations that prioritize sustainability also tend to attract and retain top talent. Millennials and Generation Z, who make up a significant portion of the workforce, prioritize working for socially and environmentally responsible companies. By integrating sustainability into their organizational culture, businesses create a sense of purpose that resonates with employees and aligns with their personal values. Engaged employees, who feel their work contributes to a greater cause, are more likely to be motivated, productive, and committed to the organization's success. Consequently, corporate sustainability positively influences human resource management and fosters a competitive advantage in talent acquisition. sustainable initiatives, potential resistance from stakeholders, and the need to strike a balance between short-term financial goals and long-term sustainability objectives. However, by leveraging the numerous tools, frameworks, and resources available, organizations can overcome these obstacles and create sustainable value.
Corporate sustainability has become a critical driver of organizational success in the 21st century. By integrating sustainable practices, companies can enhance efficiency, improve brand reputation, attract top talent, and mitigate risks. While challenges exist, the benefits far outweigh the costs. Organizations that embrace sustainability as a strategic imperative will position themselves for long-term growth, resilience, and continued success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)
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Global Urgency: WHO Calls for Unified Action Against Potential & Disease X Pandemic
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has sounded a global alarm regarding the looming threat
of a potential new pandemic known as 'Disease X.' WHO's Director-General, Tedros
Ghebreyesus, stressed the critical need for international collaboration to combat this hypothetical
but potentially devastating health crisis. The call for action comes as Disease X is speculated to
be 20 times deadlier than COVID-19, as reported by Fox News.
A Global Response: Urgent Plea for a Pandemic Treaty
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Ghebreyesus urged countries worldwide to
unite and endorse a 'pandemic treaty' by May, emphasising the importance of preparing for
unforeseen health threats. In addressing the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, he
underscored the necessity of a flexible system capable of expanding promptly to meet escalating
demands.Ghebreyesus emphasised the existence of unknown factors that might unfold, stating
that occurrences are a question of when, not if. He highlighted the necessity of having a
placeholder for unforeseen diseases, underscoring the importance of preparedness for unknown
health threats.
The WHO has taken proactive measures in anticipation of potential outbreaks, establishing a
pandemic fund and creating a "technology transfer hub" in South Africa. Ghebreyesus also
highlighted the issue of vaccine equity, pointing out the problem of high-income countries
hoarding vaccines. To address this, the WHO has set up an mRNA technology transfer hub in
South Africa, aiming to enhance local vaccine production and ensure fair distribution.
Unveiling 'Disease X': A Potential Global Health Crisis
Disease X is not a specific disease but rather the potential emergence of a virus akin to COVID-
19, representing an unknown pathogen with the potential to cause a serious international
epidemic. Categorised by the WHO among potential threats like Ebola, Lassa fever, MERS,
Nipah, and Zika, Disease X poses a unique challenge due to its unpredictable nature. Introduced
formally by the WHO in 2018, Disease X serves as a placeholder for the next unknown disease
of epidemic potential. A WHO report from November 2022 highlights the difficulty in
addressing numerous potential pathogens with limited resources for research and development,
emphasising the urgent need for global preparedness.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/magazines/)
(https://luminarytimes.com/global-urgency-who-calls-for-unified-action-against-potential-disease-x-pandemic/)
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Paris Retains Title as World's Most Attractive City Destination in 2023
In the recently released Top 100 Cily Deslinalions Index 2023 by Euromonitor International, Paris has once again secured ils posilion as the world's most altraclive cily destinalion. The annual report, produced in collaboration with dala company Lighthouse, evalualed cilies globally based on criteria such as lourism.
sustainability, economic performance, and health and safety.
Europe Dominates the Top Rankings
Europe showcased its prominence with seven oul of the lop 10 cilies and 63 countries securing a place in the Lop 100.
Aside from Paris. Dubai claimed the second spol. Tokyo ranked fourth, and New York secured the eighth position.
Other European cilies in the top 10 included Madrid. Amsterdam, Berlin, Rome, Barcelona and London.
Asia Emerges Strong in Top 20
Singapore, Seoul. Osaka, and Hong Kong demonstraled Asia's strength in the lop 20 deslinations. Europe's triumph was crediled to swift urbanisation and the pervasive embrace of lechnology. '
Today's travellers are progressively in pursuit of high-speed internet, adaptable booking choices, and environments conducive to remole work.
Newcomers and Tourism Recovery
Four new cities entered the top 100, showcasing improved tourism performance: Washington DC (48),
Montreal (68), Santiago (88), and Vilnius (92). The report highlighted Tokyo's first-lime entry into the top 10.
altribuled to enhanced tourism infrastruclure. cased Covid-19 regulalions, and a weakened Yen, oflering greal value for internalional visitors.
Challenges of Overtourism
While international travel continued its robust recovery, the report acknowledged the challenges of overtourism, impacting local communilies and the environment. Cities like Hong Kong and Bangkok
experienced significant year-on-year growth due to lale reopening post-Covid. However, such booms in visitor numbers prompt some deslinalions to implement restriclions, laxalion, or capacily reduction lo preserve cultural heritage.
Future Tourism Trends and Challenges
Nadejda Popova, a senior manager al Euromonitor International, anticipaled challenges for tourism growth in 2024 and 2025.
Rising living costs, fluctualing inflation, and geopolitical volatility are expected hurdles.
Travellers are likely to seek value-for-money propositions and opt for vacalions closer to home.
As cilies grapple with the consequences of booming tourism, the report emphasises the importance of sustainable praclices and dispersion strategies to promole alternalive deslinations, ensuring a balance between visitor numbers and cultural preservalion.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/paris-retains-title-as-worlds-most-attractive-city-destination-in-2023/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)
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Indonesia`s Tourism Boost: A Paradigm Shift in Visa Policy
In a strategic move to bolster its standing as a premier global tourist destination, Indonesia, the
largest economy in Southeast Asia, has unveiled a groundbreaking change in its visa policy.
Effective December 20, the country introduced a five-year visa policy, allowing visitors to stay
for a maximum of 60 days, a significant departure from the conventional 30-day single-entry
tourist visa.
Online Application and Payment Convenience
A notable aspect of this policy is the facilitation of online applications, coupled with the convenience of credit card payments. This streamlined entry process is poised to make Indonesia
more accessible to foreigners. Immigration Chief Silmy Karim highlighted that the extended duration and multiple entries are integral components of the government's holistic efforts to
stimulate economic growth.
Competing Effectively in the Global Tourism Arena
Indonesia's decision to extend visa durations aligns with its ambitions to compete more effectively with neighboring tourist destinations. The previous 30-day tourist visa, extendable by
an additional 30 days, posed limitations for those seeking prolonged stays or multiple entries.
The new policy not only caters to these preferences but also aims to make Indonesia a more attractive option for international tourists.
Ambitious Targets Amidst Tough Competition
As of December 8, Indonesia had already welcomed nearly 10 million foreign tourists, surpassing the initial target of 8.5 million for the year. Despite this accomplishment, Indonesia still trails behind neighboring nations such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam in overall tourist
arrivals. To address this gap, the country has set an ambitious target of attracting 40 million foreign tourists by 2025.
In the fiercely competitive landscape of global tourism, neighboring countries are actively revising their visa policies to attract visitors, especially from emerging markets like China and India. By offering more flexibility and easing entry requirements, these nations aim to position themselves as prime destinations for international travelers.
Therefore, Indonesia's recent visa policy signifies a bold step toward fostering economic growth through tourism. By extending visa durations and facilitating online applications, the country aims to position itself as a more accessible and attractive destination on the global tourism map,competing head-to-head with its regional counterparts.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/indonesias-tourism-boost-a-paradigm-shift-in-visa-policy/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)
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Saudi Arabia Launches KSA Visa Platform to Simplify Pilgrimage and Travel
In a significant move to enhance the ease of travel, Saudi Arabia has introduced the KSA Visa, a consolidated and comprehensive national visa application platform that integrates more than 30 ministries, authorities, and private-sector entities. This groundbreaking system is designed to streamline visa applications for various travel objectives, including general tourism, Umrah, Hajj, employment, and business visits.
Revolutionising the Visa Application Process
The KSA Visa platform, leveraging cutting-edge technology such as artificial intelligence (AI),marks a pivotal step in simplifying the visa application process. Saudi Arabia aims to facilitate the travel of approximately 20 lakh Indian Hajj pilgrims this year, aligning with the country's broader vision to attract 150 million annual tourists by 2030. The smart search engine on the platform provides users with comprehensive guidance on visa requirements and application procedures, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.
Tailored Measures for Indian Pilgrims Saudi Arabia is also developing specific measures to enhance flexibility for Indian pilgrims, particularly women embarking on solo Umrah trips. Extending the Umrah visa duration to ninety days and a 4-day transit visa are some of the included measures. This was primarily done to accommodate the growing number of Indian pilgrims. This focus on gender equality aligns with Minister Al-Rabiah's vision to create a safer and more inclusive environment, ultimately enriching the overall pilgrimage experience for all travellers.
Anticipating Growth and Setting Quotas With an eye on the future, Saudi Arabia is gearing up for the Hajj season in 2024 by setting an
estimated quota of 175,025 slots for Indian pilgrims. This commitment underscores the country's dedication to facilitating and enhancing the pilgrimage experience for individuals from diverse
backgrounds. Minister Al-Rabiah expects a surge in the number of Indian Umrah pilgrims, contributing to the success of initiatives designed to enrich the overall pilgrimage experience.
In 2023 alone, Saudi Arabia issued over 18.6 million visas, with the processing time for digital visas reduced to an impressive 60 seconds. These advancements signify Saudi Arabia's
commitment to embracing technology to create a more accessible and efficient visa application process, ultimately fostering growth in tourism and pilgrimage.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/saudi-arabia-launches-ksa-visa-platform-to-simplify-pilgrimage-and-travel/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)
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University of York Adopts More Flexible Admissions Policy Amid Financial Challenges
In response to growing financial pressures, the University of York has instructed its staff to take
a "more flexible approach" to admitting international students who may fall short of expected
grades. This decision reflects the university's strategic response to the evolving landscape of
higher education in the UK, where institutions are grappling with recruitment challenges and
financial strains.
The Russell Group university conveyed this policy shift through an email, stating that it has
decided to lower the entry requirements, or "tariff," for overseas applicants across all
departments and programs. Although the typical undergraduate offer at York requires A grades
at A-level, the university will now consider admitting international applicants with the equivalent
of B or C at A-level. Similarly, entry to postgraduate courses would now necessitate a 2:2 award
or similar, rather than a 2:1.
A spokesperson for the University of York emphasised that this adjustment aligns international
student admissions with the flexible approach already in place for UK students. This move aims
to address the financial challenges faced by British universities, particularly in light of frozen
tuition fees for domestic students since 2016 in England and funding cuts for universities in
Scotland.
Challenges in Recruiting International Students and Financial Implications for Universities
The shift in admissions policies at the University of York is indicative of broader challenges
faced by UK universities in recruiting international students. With income from lucrative
international student fees playing a vital role, universities are under pressure due to government
policies and increased competition from countries like Canada and Australia.
Russell Group universities, including York, note a financial strain, with an average loss of about
£2,500 in teaching UK undergraduates. In response, numerous universities have sought to offset
these financial challenges by bolstering the enrollment of international students. This strategic
approach is driven by the fact that the fees for international students are not subject to caps and
can surpass domestic fees by a considerable margin. This strategic shift is evident in financial
statements, such as University College London's tuition fee income increasing by 17% in 2022-
23, primarily driven by growth in the full-time international student base.
While some universities, like the University of Liverpool, have successfully expanded their
international student intake, institutions relying more on UK students, like the Open University,
have experienced financial setbacks. The Open University recorded an operating deficit of £25m
last year, citing a reversal in the growth of student numbers due to the cost of living crisis and
post-pandemic student behaviours. The university anticipates a further decline in student
numbers this year.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/university-of-york-adopts-more-flexible-admissions-policy-amid-financial-challenges/)
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Canadian Immigration Minister Contemplates Cap on Foreign Students Amid Housing
Crisis
In the context of the rising housing crisis in Canada, Immigration Minister Marc Miller
announced on Saturday that the Canadian government is considering the prospect of imposing
a cap on the number of foreign students residing in the country. The move comes in response to
Canada's mounting housing problem and rising unemployment.
While the minister did not specify the extent of the potential reduction in immigration, he
emphasised the need for collaboration between the federal and provincial governments to rein
in the overwhelming influx of international students. Miller expressed concerns about the current
volume, describing it as "disconcerting" and characterising the system as having "gotten out of
control."
Analysing Impact and Timing: Sorting Data Before Imposing Caps
In an interview, Miller explained the delay in considering a cap, stating that federal data needs
to be thoroughly examined before taking a more nuanced approach. He acknowledged that the
government must scrutinise specific academic institutions across provinces to assess their role
in attracting foreign students and potentially profiting from the situation.
The minister emphasised the importance of ensuring financial capabilities, proper verification of
offer letters, and initiating a comprehensive conversation about the impact of student volumes in
various areas.
Miller clarified that any potential quota on foreign students would not be a universal solution to
Canada's housing crisis. Housing, he noted, is just one facet of the broader immigration targets.
Miller emphasised the urgency of considering the significant gap between the number of foreign
students entering Canada and the federal government's plans for home construction assistance.
He stressed the need to address the pressing requirement of lowering the average age of the
workforce.
While the details are still under consideration, Miller affirmed that the federal government will
continue exploring the possibility of imposing a cap on international students. The nuanced
approach reflects a recognition of the multifaceted challenges Canada faces, ensuring that any
proposed solution aligns with the complex dynamics of the housing crisis and broader
immigration goals. With these growing challenges for Indian students, educational courses in
other countries like the UK, Germany, and France are quickly gaining traction, becoming
favourable alternatives to Canada.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/canadian-immigration-minister-contemplates-cap-on-foreign-students-amid-housing-crisis/)(https://luminarytimes.com/)
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