Armenia is increasingly becoming a favored destination for Gulf tourists and investors, offering a unique blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and business opportunities. With visa-free access for Gulf residents and expanding flight connections, the country is positioning itself as a year-round destination for leisure and business travelers alike. Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairperson of the Tourism Committee of Armenia, emphasized the country’s strengths: ‘We don’t have oil or gas, but we have people. Our people are our greatest treasure. We enjoy over 300 sunny days a year, even in winter, which makes our country attractive for both leisure and business travelers.’ Armenia’s tourism strategy for 2026–2030 focuses on cultural heritage, gastronomy, agritourism, and adventure tourism, building on its reputation as a safe, family-friendly destination. The country boasts over 10 UNESCO-recognized heritage sites and is known for its vibrant nightlife and safety. ‘In Armenia, it’s common to leave your bag or phone at a café table without any worries — no one touches it,’ Gevorgyan noted. The Tourism Committee has been deepening ties with Gulf nations, with visa-free entry for Gulf residents and new flight routes enhancing accessibility. Direct flights from Abu Dhabi launched in June, and Armenia is working with Fly One Armenia to expand routes to both Europe and the Gulf. Armenia is also emerging as a medical tourism hub, thanks to highly trained doctors, affordability, and growing international visibility. The country is developing a digital platform called Bridge, which will connect doctors, tour operators, patients, lawyers, and insurers, offering an all-in-one service with a single agreement and price. ‘Armenia is closer and more cost-effective than countries like Germany, yet offers excellent care in fields like dentistry, implantology, and cosmetic surgery,’ Gevorgyan explained. Wellness tourism is another area of focus, with regional hubs like Dilijan developing into world-class destinations. Public-private partnerships are driving Armenia’s tourism boom, with a $100 million loan agreement with the World Bank and an additional $20 million from the government aimed at improving roads, utilities, public restrooms, and tourism infrastructure. Unique tourism experiences, such as the new winter sports hub in Aragatsotn and the Myler Mountain Resort, are attracting international investors. Tax incentives further encourage foreign investment, with tax-free zones for tourism infrastructure projects. Armenia’s thriving tourism industry is underpinned by a business-friendly climate, with the ability to register a company online in under an hour. Enterprise Armenia, the country’s investment promotion agency, supports international investors through every stage of development. With its ancient monasteries, clean mountain air, safe family-friendly environment, and innovative approach to investment, Armenia is rapidly becoming a preferred destination for Gulf travelers and global investors. ‘Our food is fresh, clean, and eco-friendly. We are proud of our ecotourism potential, especially in our villages, where nature remains untouched,’ Gevorgyan concluded.
标签： Africa
非洲
-
FBIS 2025 illuminates Dubai with a global celebration of innovation and leadership
The Future Billionaire Investor Summit (FBIS) 2025, hosted by Unified Brainz Virtuoso Ltd., transformed Dubai into a global hub of innovation and leadership. Held at the opulent Millennium Plaza Downtown Dubai, the event convened an illustrious assembly of visionaries, investors, diplomats, and changemakers from around the world, all driven by a shared mission to shape the future of global enterprise. The summit commenced with a ceremonial opening featuring the UAE and Indian national anthems, followed by a lamp-lighting and Ganesh Stuti ritual led by Dr G D Singh, founder and president of Unified Brainz, and Dr Neetu Singh, managing director. This symbolic act signified the dawn of new opportunities and cross-border collaborations. In his keynote address, Dr Singh articulated his vision of a borderless ecosystem where passion, purpose, and excellence converge. The event featured insightful speeches from global leaders, including Dr High Prince Leye Babalola, Dr Omar Al Marzooqi, and Countess Elena De Bacci, who emphasized sustainability, innovation, and collaboration as the cornerstones of future business success. Highlights included the signing of an MoU for the AACCI Philippines Chapter, the launch of the Passion Vista Anthem, and the unveiling of the book “Passion & Compassion – Living, Leading, and Leaving a Legacy” by Dr Singh and Aalia Singh Marwah. Two panel discussions, focusing on strategic investment trends in the GCC and the integration of innovation, purpose, and profit in a borderless business world, sparked meaningful dialogue among attendees.
-
Bloom-backed Hearts out to shatter Scottish football’s ‘glass ceiling’
Hearts of Midlothian, a fan-owned Scottish Premiership club, are making waves in Scottish football under the guidance of Brighton owner Tony Bloom. After seven games, Hearts sit atop the league table, two points clear of Celtic and 11 ahead of struggling Rangers. This marks a potential shift in the long-standing dominance of the Glasgow giants, who have controlled Scottish football for over four decades. Bloom, a professional gambler turned football strategist, has invested £10 million for a 29% stake in Hearts, while the Foundation of Hearts retains majority control. His data-driven approach, through his firm Jamestown Analytics, has already yielded results, with new recruits Claudio Braga and Alexandros Kyziridis shining in an unbeaten start to the season. Bloom’s success with Brighton, transforming them from the English third tier to the Premier League, and his role in Union Saint-Gilloise’s rise to the Champions League, provide a blueprint for Hearts’ ambitions. The club’s fan ownership model, established in 2021, has fostered a sense of unity and self-belief. Despite financial disparities—Celtic’s £144 million turnover dwarfs Hearts’ resources—the Edinburgh club believes Bloom’s expertise can help them outsmart their rivals. With Rangers in turmoil and Celtic facing fan discontent, Hearts see an opportunity to break the glass ceiling and challenge for their first title since 1960.
-
Why the ultra-wealthy are paying fortunes for longevity
In a world where luxury once meant owning the rarest handbags, fastest cars, or largest yachts, the ultra-wealthy have shifted their focus to a new, intangible asset: time. The global wellness industry, now valued at $5 trillion, is experiencing a seismic transformation, driven by the pursuit of longevity among billionaires. High-end wellness retreats, offering cutting-edge medical treatments and bespoke health programs, have become the new playgrounds for the ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs).
Clinique La Prairie in Switzerland, Lanserhof in Austria, and Buchinger Wilhelmi in Germany are among the elite sanctuaries where guests pay upwards of $50,000 for week-long programs. These retreats combine advanced medical science with five-star hospitality, offering DNA sequencing, stem-cell rejuvenation, and circadian rhythm optimization. The luxury here is not just in the amenities but in the promise of extended vitality and health.
The pandemic and breakthroughs in medical science have fueled this shift. For the ultra-wealthy, the ultimate status symbol is no longer material possessions but the ability to look, feel, and perform younger than their peers. Wellness has evolved from weekend spa trips to a sophisticated industry offering cryotherapy, ozone therapy, and epigenetic reprogramming.
The Gulf region is emerging as a hub for longevity luxury. Dubai’s thriving spa culture is being complemented by science-driven sanctuaries, while Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 includes ambitious wellness tourism projects. SHA Wellness Clinic, a Mediterranean flagship, is expanding to the UAE with a project marketed as the ‘world’s first healthy living island.’
Critics argue that many longevity treatments remain unproven or controversial. However, for billionaires, the cost of failure is negligible. A six-figure gamble on a treatment that might extend vitality by even a year is more compelling than another luxury car or watch.
As the industry grows, longevity is expected to merge with mainstream luxury brands. Imagine Dior Longevity Retreats or Louis Vuitton Biohacking Spas. Technology will also play a key role, with AI-powered health diagnostics and VR wellness sanctuaries on the horizon.
In the 21st century, luxury is no longer measured in carats or horsepower but in decades of life lived well. The ultra-wealthy are no longer asking, ‘What can I buy?’ but ‘How long can I thrive?’
-
The Enchanter Merlin: Roger Dubuis unveils the next chapter in Arthurian watchmaking
Roger Dubuis, the renowned Swiss watchmaker, has once again captivated the world of haute horlogerie with its latest creation, ‘The Enchanter Merlin.’ This exquisite timepiece, unveiled on October 17, 2025, is the second chapter in the brand’s Arthurian-inspired ‘Tale of Merlin’ series, which began in 2024. Drawing inspiration from the legendary love story between Merlin and the Lady of the Lake, the watch is a testament to the brand’s unparalleled craftsmanship and artistic vision.
The dial of ‘The Enchanter Merlin’ is a marvel of design, transforming into a mythical crystal palace. Fifty-six hexagonal columns, crafted from glass, enamel, and gold, rise at varying heights, creating a mesmerizing landscape of light and shadow. Beneath these columns lies a layer of crystallized ruthenium, adding a shimmering effect to the dial. For the first time, Roger Dubuis introduces an ‘invisibility’ diamond setting, where each hexagonal diamond appears to float above its column, showcasing the brand’s innovative gem-setting techniques.
Twelve knights, each a six-millimetre sculpture in 18k pink gold, circle the dial, their blades raised and armor gleaming. These knights, rendered with near-microscopic precision, serve as eternal guardians of the Lady of the Lake’s sanctuary. The watch is powered by the in-house RD821 calibre, assembled from 172 components and bearing the prestigious Poinçon de Genève seal. The 45mm case, crafted in 18k pink gold, exudes strength and elegance, with the crown guard designed to resemble the hilt of Excalibur. The white leather strap completes the watch’s sense of purity.
Limited to just 28 pieces, ‘The Enchanter Merlin’ carries the eternal inscription engraved on every Knights of the Round Table watch since 2013: ‘Around this table, the bravest knights will gather as equals.’ This phrase not only reflects the spirit of the Arthurian legend but also the community of collectors drawn to these modern myths. Roger Dubuis continues to push the boundaries of watchmaking, retelling legends through crystal and gold, and creating timepieces that are as much works of art as they are functional objects.
-
Finding purpose in finance: Why crypto feels like a ‘calling’
The world of cryptocurrency and blockchain has often been described as complex and volatile, yet for some, it feels like a profound calling. Ann Marie McQueen, a former accountant and CEO, shares her transformative journey from traditional finance to the enigmatic realm of crypto. Her initial enthusiasm for Bitcoin and blockchain technology was met with resistance, particularly from her late father, who found the concept of a new kind of money overwhelming. This experience, coupled with insights from a neuroscientist friend, taught her the importance of understanding generational differences in embracing innovation. McQueen’s fascination with crypto deepened as she encountered a crypto influencer from the Philippines who framed the experience as a ‘calling.’ This resonated deeply with her, as she found herself inexplicably drawn to the technical and seemingly impenetrable world of blockchain. Her journey led her to join a community of women investors in crypto, where she discovered that many shared her sense of purpose. McQueen reflects on her decisions, likening her crypto journey to other life-changing choices she has made, such as relocating to Abu Dhabi in 2008. She remains confident that her foray into crypto, driven by an almost spiritual compulsion, will prove to be a decision she won’t regret.
-
IIHL inducts Kamal Vachani to its board of directors
IndusInd International Holdings Limited (IIHL), a Mauritius-based financial services platform promoted by the Hinduja Family, has announced the induction of Kamal Vachani to its board of directors. This strategic move aims to bolster IIHL’s representation in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region as the company accelerates its global expansion across various financial sectors. Vachani, a partner at Dubai’s Al Maya Group, brings extensive experience in the retail sector and strong ties to the GCC, aligning with IIHL’s vision to enhance its footprint in financial and para-banking services. Ashok P Hinduja, Chairman of IIHL, emphasized that Vachani’s expertise will ensure effective representation of the company’s GCC-based shareholders. IIHL has been actively pursuing strategic acquisitions to solidify its position in the BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) space. Notable recent acquisitions include the 100% stake in Reliance Capital Ltd. and its subsidiaries, a 60% stake in Invesco Asset Management Company’s India business, and the complete ownership of Bahamas-based Sterling Bank, now rebranded as IIHL Bank & Trust Ltd. These initiatives underscore IIHL’s ambition to become a global financial powerhouse.
-
Dubai reinforces global leadership in exhibitions at landmark industry gathering
Dubai has reaffirmed its status as a global leader in the exhibitions and events sector during a landmark industry gathering that brought together key stakeholders from around the world. The event, attended by global organizers, government representatives, and industry innovators, showcased Dubai’s vision for the future of international exhibitions and its role in shaping the next decade of global trade, business networking, and sustainable growth.
-
Plan to test Liberian schoolchildren for drugs blocked
Liberia’s Education Ministry has intervened to halt a contentious proposal for mandatory drug testing across all schools in the country. The initiative, spearheaded by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), aimed to combat the escalating issue of drug abuse among students. Interim LDEA head Fitzgerald Biago argued that such measures would address the growing crisis, which President Joseph Boakai declared a national emergency last year. A recent EU-backed report revealed that one in five young Liberians engages in drug use, underscoring the severity of the problem. However, the Education Ministry expressed reservations, stating that it was unaware of the plan and emphasized the need for evidence-based decision-making. Assistant Minister Sona Sesay-Toure highlighted the potential negative consequences of drug testing, including privacy concerns, social stigma, and adverse effects on students’ academic performance. She stressed the importance of thorough research and case studies from other nations before implementing such measures. Sesay-Toure also noted the establishment of a multi-sectoral committee, led by the Health Ministry, to address drug and substance abuse. Additionally, she emphasized the role of strengthened school health clubs in reducing drug prevalence. The LDEA has undergone recent leadership changes, with Biago appointed as interim head following the dismissal of the previous leadership in August. The debate over drug testing in schools continues, balancing the urgency of tackling drug abuse with the need to protect students’ rights and well-being.
-
Ace Frehley, Kiss’ original lead guitarist and founding member, dies at 74
Ace Frehley, the iconic lead guitarist and founding member of the legendary rock band Kiss, has died at the age of 74. His family confirmed his passing on Thursday, attributing it to complications from a recent fall at his home. Frehley’s representative, Lori Lousararian, shared the tragic news with Rolling Stone magazine. In a heartfelt statement, Frehley’s family expressed their profound grief, describing his loss as ‘of epic proportions’ and celebrating his enduring legacy. Bandmates Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley also paid tribute, calling Frehley an ‘essential and irreplaceable rock soldier’ who played a pivotal role in shaping Kiss’s groundbreaking history. Born in the Bronx on April 27, 1951, Frehley’s passion for music was ignited after attending concerts by The Who and Cream. He joined Kiss in the early 1970s, helping to define the band’s signature hard rock and glam rock style with his electrifying guitar riffs, theatrical stage presence, and iconic ‘Spaceman’ persona. Frehley remained with the band through its 1970s heyday and later rejoined for a reunion in the 1990s. As a solo artist, he achieved success with hits like ‘New York Groove.’ Kiss’s influence on rock music remains unparalleled, with 26 gold albums and 14 platinum records to their name. Frehley’s contributions to the band and the rock genre will forever be remembered.