Octola Private Wilderness, one of the world’s most exclusive Arctic retreats in Finnish Lapland, has set a new benchmark for luxury and conscious travel. The ultra-luxury destination has become the first travel experience worldwide to monitor ultrafine air particles using research-grade technology. Installed across its private estate, this system provides guests with measurable insight into the purity of Arctic air, long celebrated as some of the cleanest on Earth.

“Our surroundings have always offered a rare purity. Now, we have the data to prove it,” says Janne Honkanen, Founder of Octola. “By measuring ultrafine particles, some of the smallest and most harmful pollutants — we can assure our guests of the environment’s quality in a meaningful, transparent way.”

This initiative builds on Octola’s mission to offer experiences rooted in the healing powers of Lapland’s pristine air and untouched wilderness, reinforcing the restorative qualities that returning guests have always sensed.

By continuously monitoring and reporting air quality, Octola is raising the bar for environmental responsibility and guest care. The retreat collaborates with leading researchers, including Northern Lights scientist Dr. Esa Turunen, offering a rare combination of luxury, natural serenity, and ongoing scientific research.

The new Octola II, opening in December 2025, will extend these standards. Featuring five ensuite bedrooms, a children’s playroom, spa, gym, saunas, and Northern Lights-viewing areas with glass ceilings, Octola II promises immersive experiences amidst 1,730 acres of private wilderness. The Supersuite Villa includes two large ensuite bedrooms, private saunas, baths, and outdoor hot tubs.

Octola is also launching Respiro Octola, a health and wellness programme designed to connect guests with the environment’s clean Arctic air. Curated experiences include guided breathwork, sauna sessions, yoga, ice swimming, and other natural treatments shown to reduce stress, improve resilience, and support long-term wellbeing. Studies from the World Health Organization and the University of Helsinki suggest that spending a week in Lapland can extend lifespan by hours depending on one’s origin, highlighting the benefits of pristine air.

“Scientific studies show that air pollution reduces global life expectancy by roughly two years. Breathing air as clean as Lapland’s can aid respiratory recovery, enhance wellbeing, and may even contribute to a longer life,” explains Professor Mikko Sipilä, University of Helsinki.

Through advanced environmental monitoring and sustainable practices, Octola reinforces its role as a guardian of the Arctic wilderness. By combining luxury, wellness, and measurable environmental accountability, it offers a unique experience that blends indulgence with conscious travel.

“The purity of our air is often described as healing, almost otherworldly. With this monitoring, we can protect it and hold ourselves to the highest standards,” adds Honkanen.

About Octola Private Wilderness
Located in Finnish Lapland, Octola Private Wilderness offers ultra-luxury off-grid lodges, personal chefs, wilderness guides, and authentic Lappish traditions. Reservations are highly limited, with a 94% guest return rate. The exact location remains undisclosed to protect privacy, and interested travellers may request to join a private waiting list.

Atlantis, The Palm, one of the UAE’s most iconic resorts, has partnered with Yardi to manage its growing retail portfolio, enhancing leasing operations and commercial management. The resort, home to Aquaventure World, the world’s largest waterpark, is a premier destination for dining, entertainment, and luxury experiences.

Under this collaboration, Atlantis, The Palm will adopt Yardi’s Commercial Suite to automate processes, improve visibility, and boost leasing performance. Yardi Voyager will centralize lease administration, ensuring accuracy across commercial agreements, while Yardi Deal Manager enables real-time deal tracking and pipeline management to enhance decision-making and collaboration.

To deliver a seamless tenant experience, the CommercialCafe portal and mobile app will allow tenants to manage lease information, make payments, and submit service requests online.

“Atlantis, The Palm’s adoption of Yardi technology showcases its commitment to innovation and excellence in both hospitality and commercial real estate,” said Said Haider, Senior Director at Yardi. “We are proud to support their journey in redefining luxury experiences in the region.”

Located at the center of The Palm in Dubai, Atlantis, The Palm opened in September 2008 and spans 46 hectares, featuring marine and entertainment attractions including The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Aquaventure World, Dolphin Bay, and Sea Lion Point. The resort also boasts 35 world-renowned restaurants, including Michelin-starred venues FZN by Björn Frantzén, Hakkasan, and Ossiano, alongside celebrity chef establishments such as Bread Street Kitchen & Bar by Gordon Ramsay and Nobu.

The resort’s retail and commercial offerings include a curated selection of luxury boutiques, extensive meeting and convention facilities, and entertainment hubs like Wavehouse and Casablanca Beach.

About Yardi

Yardi develops and supports industry-leading investment and property management software for real estate companies globally. With over 10,000 employees, Yardi drives innovation across the commercial and residential property sector. For more information, visit yardi.ae.

Saudi authorities have introduced new Umrah 2025 visa regulations, making it mandatory for pilgrims to have confirmed hotel bookings and verified local transport before applying for a visa. The initiative is aimed at enhancing safety, reducing fraudulent offers, and ensuring a smoother pilgrimage experience.

Pilgrims must now complete all bookings via the official Nusuk platform or licensed travel agents. Failure to provide proof of verified accommodation and in-country transport may result in delays or visa rejection.

New Visa Requirements:

• Accommodation must be secured with licensed hotels and verified through the Nusuk Masar or Nusuk Umrah platform.
  

• Local transport, including airport transfers and commuting within Saudi Arabia, must be arranged and confirmed.
  

• Visa applications will only be processed once proof of approved hotel and transport arrangements is provided.
  

Authorities advise pilgrims to consider full-package bookings through trusted tour operators, which include hotel, transport, and expert guidance for smoother approvals. Early planning is recommended, particularly during peak periods of the Islamic calendar, to secure availability and avoid delays.

The tightened rules are part of a broader initiative to digitise Umrah services, centralise operations, and protect pilgrims from scams. They also align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to improve the overall pilgrimage experience and ensure organized, safe religious tourism.

International pilgrims are strongly encouraged to complete bookings early and use Nusuk or licensed operators to ensure compliance and hassle-free visa approvals.