Ascott Unveils Oakwood Erode Resort: A Milestone in Indian Hospitality Expansion

Ascott Unveils Oakwood Erode Resort: A Milestone in Indian Hospitality Expansion

By Author

Published on December 28, 2023

CapitaLand Investment Limited's lodging unit, The Ascott Limited, is set to make a mark in India with the signing of a management agreement for Oakwood Erode Resort in Tamil Nadu. The collaboration with Sensation Hospitality Avenues LLP, the hospitality arm of Sensation Infracon, signifies a strategic move in Ascott's expansion across India.

Located in the vibrant city of Erode, Oakwood Erode Resort aims to redefine luxury and comfort. The signing ceremony, graced by Hoshang Garivala, Country General Manager, Ascott International Management India Pvt. Ltd, along with representatives from Sensation Infracon, marks a significant step in bringing unparalleled hospitality to esteemed guests.

Erode, strategically positioned on the banks of the Kaveri River and surrounded by the Western Ghats, has emerged as a key investment destination for the hospitality sector. Its connectivity through the Bangalore-Coimbatore-Kerala route and ongoing infrastructural development have enhanced its appeal as a travel and business hub.

Scheduled to be operational by December 2026, Oakwood Erode will be situated in Periyasemure, Sathy Road, offering a modern façade, 90 rooms, diverse dining options, and versatile meeting spaces. The hotel is poised to cater to the varied needs of both leisure and business travelers.

Hoshang Garivala expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, "We are thrilled to unveil our latest addition in the vibrant city of Erode in collaboration with Sensation Infracon. The new property epitomizes elegance, offering guests an oasis of tranquility and sophistication. This property embodies our unwavering commitment to redefining luxury and delivering exceptional hospitality."

Khushbu Kumari, Partner at Sensation Hospitality Avenues LLP, shared the enthusiasm, saying, "We are excited to bring the Oakwood Resort brand to Erode, a city known for its cultural heritage and economic significance. Our aim is to elevate the hotel to high international standards and offer guests an exceptional stay experience while exploring the scenic beauty of the state."

As Ascott continues to strengthen its presence in India, Oakwood Erode Resort emerges as a testament to its commitment to delivering world-class hospitality experiences. The hotel's strategic location and focus on blending regional charm with contemporary amenities align with the rich cultural legacy of Erode, promising an extraordinary stay for every guest. Cheers to the new era of luxury in the heart of Tamil Nadu!


Saya SouthX Signs McDonald’s, Sunburn Café, Cinepolis & More — Opening by Christmas 2025

Saya SouthX Signs McDonald’s, Sunburn Café, Cinepolis & More — Opening by Christmas 2025

By Hariharan U

Published on August 16, 2025

Saya SouthX, the flagship high-street commercial project in Greater Noida West, is gearing up for a grand launch this Christmas with an exciting roster of international and national brands.

Occupying 70,000 sq. ft. of prime F&B space, the project will soon welcome a 7,250 sq. ft. McDonald’s flagship, the 10,000 sq. ft. Sunburn Café from Mumbai (marking its first NCR outlet), Badaami Restaurant, Castle’s Barbeque, and a 20,000 sq. ft. multi-cuisine food court.

Entertainment will be headlined by a three-screen Cinepolis multiplex and a 20,000 sq. ft. gaming arena by Funky Island & Blaaze. Additional anchor brands, a hypermarket, and over 1,00,000 sq. ft. of leading retail outlets will complete the experience.

Strategically located with three-side open frontage, Saya SouthX offers ample parking, high visibility, and access to a catchment area of over 5 lakh residents within a 3 km radius. The Occupancy Certificate (OC) process is already underway, with brand fit-outs commencing in the next fortnight.

"Saya SouthX is envisioned as a one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in Greater Noida West," said Vikas Bhasin, MD, Saya Group. "With these global and national brands onboard, we are confident of delivering an unmatched visitor experience by Christmas".

Saya SouthX also integrates business hospitality with 336 units of BIZTOP Business Class Suites, to be managed by a leading hotel chain. The Saya Group is offering a limited-period investment window for the few remaining pre-leased retail spaces, ideal for investors seeking assured rental returns in a booming commercial market.

Alongside Saya SouthX, the group is also developing Saya Piazza in Sector 131, Jaypee Wish Town, Noida — a 1.72-acre project combining luxury retail, landscaped plazas, and curated dining zones.

About Saya Group:
With 25 years of experience in luxury real estate, Saya Group has delivered over 5.37 million sq. ft. of premium residential and commercial projects, including 2.37 million sq. ft. of high-street retail in Noida and Greater Noida West. From villas and high-rise residences to landmark retail hubs, the group is known for blending luxury, convenience, and design innovation.


Cloudburst in J&K's Kishtwar Claims 30 Lives; NDRF Teams Deployed for Rescue

Cloudburst in J&K's Kishtwar Claims 30 Lives; NDRF Teams Deployed for Rescue

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 16, 2025

 A massive cloudburst in Kishtwar district, Jammu & Kashmir, has claimed at least 30 lives near the Machail Mata yatra route. The disaster struck Chasoti, the last motorable village en route to the shrine, also affecting nearby Narang village. Authorities have suspended the annual yatra, and rescue operations are underway.

Nearly 98 people have been rescued so far from the flood-hit region. Two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, comprising around 180 personnel with modern rescue equipment, were deployed from Udhampur to assist in relief efforts.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed that the administration has swung into action, with immediate evaluation, rescue, and medical arrangements being made.

In response, the J&K administration, led by Omar Abdullah, has set up a control room in Paddar, approximately 15 km from the disaster site, to assist affected residents and pilgrims. Five officials are managing the control room, reachable at: 9858223125, 6006701934, 9797504078, 8492886895, 8493801381, and 7006463710. Additional contacts include the district control room (01995-259555, 9484217492) and the Kishtwar police control room (9906154100).

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed grief over the incident, extending condolences to bereaved families and directing Civil, Police, Army, NDRF, and SDRF officials to strengthen rescue and relief efforts.

This cloudburst marks the first major monsoon-related disaster in J&K this season. Similar extreme weather has affected Himachal Pradesh, where the monsoon has caused 126 deaths, 36 missing persons, over 300 road closures, and damages amounting to Rs 2,031 crore since June 20, 2025.

Authorities continue to urge the public to follow safety advisories and reach out to control rooms for timely updates and assistance.


Abu Dhabi Airports Reports 13% Passenger Growth in H1 2025

Abu Dhabi Airports Reports 13% Passenger Growth in H1 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 16, 2025

 Abu Dhabi Airports has reported a 13.1 per cent increase in passenger traffic for the first half of 2025, welcoming 15.8 million travellers across its five-airport network. This growth marks the 17th consecutive quarter of double-digit passenger traffic expansion, reflecting the airport group’s pivotal role in economic growth and global connectivity.

Zayed International Airport (AUH) led the surge, handling 15.5 million passengers, up 13.2 per cent year-on-year. Total aircraft movements across the network reached 133,533, a 9.2 per cent increase, with AUH registering 93,858 movements, up 11.4 per cent.

Route expansion has been central to the growth strategy, with 16 new destinations added in H1 2025. Highlights include China Eastern Airlines’ Shanghai service, Air Seychelles’ six weekly flights, Fly Cham’s Damascus route, and IndiGo’s new connections from Madurai, Bhubaneswar, and Visakhapatnam, strengthening AUH as the airline’s most connected UAE hub.

Cargo volumes also rose 4.8 per cent, reaching 344,795 tonnes, supported by a joint venture with JD Property for a 70,000 sqm advanced logistics facility, catering to growing east-west e-commerce demand.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “The first six months posed operational challenges, yet our results demonstrate the resilience of our network and collaborative partnerships. Delivering positive growth for 17 consecutive quarters reflects our operational agility and commitment to an exceptional aviation experience.”

Other milestones included:

  • Completion of rehabilitation works at Sir Bani Yas Airport

  • AUH receiving the 3 Pearl Estidama rating for construction

  • Recognition as Best Airport at Arrivals Globally at the ACI ASQ Awards for the third consecutive year

  • Collaboration with Bombardier at Al Bateen Executive Airport for a dedicated MRO facility

  • Partnership with TAQA Distribution to explore next-generation utility technologies across airports

With sustained passenger growth, strategic infrastructure projects, and global partnerships, Abu Dhabi Airports continues to strengthen its position as a leading aviation hub, supporting the UAE’s broader economic diversification agenda.

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