Dhanarak Asset Development Co., Ltd. (DAD), the state-owned enterprise managing Thailand’s Government Complex, has announced the completion of a landmark transformation that positions the site as Thailand’s first green government city. The initiative reimagines the role of public-sector land, placing sustainability, walkability and human wellbeing at the centre of urban planning.

Led by Dr. Nalikatibhag Sangsnit, President of DAD, the multi-year redevelopment shifts the Government Complex away from traditional, closed administrative design toward an open, people-first civic environment. The concept, titled “City of Green Lifestyles,” focuses on how citizens move, rest, breathe and interact with nature within an urban government setting.

“For decades, government districts in Thailand were designed to manage paperwork, not people,” said Dr. Nalikatibhag Sangsnit. “We wanted to reverse that logic. A city, especially a city owned by the state, must first work for human life.”

At the heart of the transformation is a newly opened 5.1-rai landscaped green connector linking Buildings B and C. Once a traffic-heavy buffer zone, the space has been converted into a pedestrian-friendly green corridor connecting offices, public transit points and communal areas. The redesigned landscape acts as a climate buffer, helping reduce heat, improve water absorption and encourage daily walking and outdoor activity.

Over the last six years, DAD has expanded green spaces within the Government Complex by more than 47 rai. When combined with surrounding landscaped zones, the total green area now exceeds 138 rai, creating one of the largest continuous public green spaces in northern Bangkok. Importantly, previously restricted government land has been opened for wider public use, dissolving the boundary between administrative infrastructure and the city beyond.

The project aligns closely with Thailand’s national sustainability goals, including ESG principles and the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model. Design elements prioritise expanded tree cover, permeable surfaces and flexible open spaces that support exercise, informal gatherings and community interaction.

DAD’s approach has gained international recognition. In 2025, the organisation became the only public-sector entity to win the Asia-level International Innovation Awards for two consecutive years, honouring its Government Complex Smart City initiative and the GCC Super Application, a digital platform integrating transport, navigation and public services.

Unlike large-scale urban megaprojects, the Bangkok Government Complex transformation relies on incremental, system-based upgrades rather than new land acquisition. Urban planners and policy experts view this model as a scalable blueprint for governments across Asia, particularly in rapidly growing cities where the public sector remains one of the largest landowners.

“This is about proving that sustainability is not an added cost,” Dr. Nalikatibhag added. “When green infrastructure improves health, reduces stress and invites public use, it becomes both economically rational and socially essential.”

With this initiative, Dhanarak Asset Development is redefining how government spaces function, demonstrating how public-sector leadership can set new standards for humane, sustainable and inclusive city-making.

Ras Al Khaimah has announced the return of the HIGHLANDER long-distance hiking challenge, marking five years since the Middle East’s premier endurance hiking event first arrived in the Emirate. The fifth anniversary edition will take place from 6 to 8 February 2026 on Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, once again inviting adventure enthusiasts from around the world to explore the rugged beauty and cultural depth of the destination.

Organised by HIGHLANDER Adventure, the world’s largest international hiking series, and supported by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), the event continues to strengthen Ras Al Khaimah’s positioning as a key adventure tourism hub. Participants will journey across the Emirate’s most extensively developed hiking network, covering trails that span the dramatic Hajar Mountains.

With global demand for experience-led and adventure travel on the rise, hosting a mass-participation long-distance hiking event further reinforces Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to immersive tourism. The challenge blends endurance hiking with sustainability, cultural discovery and community engagement, offering participants a deeper connection with the destination.

Along carefully curated mountain trails, hikers will pass through historic settlements that reflect the traditions, resilience and daily life of mountain tribes that once thrived in the region. These encounters offer an authentic insight into Ras Al Khaimah’s cultural heritage. Beyond the trail, HIGHLANDER’s signature camp programmes will feature live cooking stations showcasing local cuisine, allowing direct interaction with mountain communities. Wildlife sessions led by renowned wildlife photographer Bachar Bouka will also introduce participants to the diverse species found in the Hajar Mountains.

Commenting on the milestone, Phillipa Harrison, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said, “Hosting HIGHLANDER for the fifth consecutive year underlines our commitment to promoting wellness, experiential travel and connection with nature. The event perfectly aligns with our vision for engaging the local community and positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.”

Fadi Hachicho, Managing Director of HIGHLANDER Adventure UAE and Founder of Adventurati Outdoor, added, “With more than 250 participants, last year’s edition successfully positioned Ras Al Khaimah on the global adventure tourism stage, attracting hikers from 35 countries who travelled from around the world to take part in this adventure of a lifetime. We remain committed to showcasing the rich heritage and culture of Ras Al Khaimah through every event we organize, while continuously enhancing our camp experiences with more entertainment and wellness initiatives.”

The 2026 edition will offer three distinct challenge formats designed to suit varying fitness levels. The HIGHLANDER Pegasus, a three-day challenge covering 37 kilometres, will run from 6 to 8 February 2026. The HIGHLANDER Orion, a two-day backpacking format covering 25 kilometres, will take place from 7 to 8 February 2026, while the HIGHLANDER Lyra, a one-day format covering 13 kilometres, will be held on 8 February 2026, offering a more accessible introduction for first-time participants.

Aligned with Ras Al Khaimah’s sustainable tourism vision, the event actively promotes “Leave No Trace” principles through on-ground activations and participant communication. By encouraging responsible travel and environmental stewardship, HIGHLANDER highlights the importance of preserving the Emirate’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage.

Participants who successfully complete their chosen trail will receive official finisher recognition and take part in a shared celebration, marking the culmination of an adventure rooted in endurance, discovery and connection with nature.

As 2025 draws to a close, TOKYO SKYTREE®, the world’s tallest tower and one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, is set to welcome 2026 with a celebration that blends tradition, symbolism, and spectacular city views. From December 26, 2025, to January 7, 2026, Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Skytree Town® will host a series of New Year experiences inspired by Oshogatsu, Japan’s most important festive season.

For Indian travellers looking to begin the year with meaning and memorable moments, Tokyo Skytree offers a unique balance of ritual, celebration, and elevated experiences both literally and culturally.

A Sky Lit for the New Year

To mark the arrival of 2026, Tokyo Skytree will glow in red and white illumination, colours inspired by the Japanese national flag and symbolising purity, optimism, and new beginnings. Adding to the spectacle, a “Happy New Year” laser-mapped message will be projected across the upper façade of the Tembo Deck, creating a striking moment against Tokyo’s skyline.

Cultural Experiences at 350 Metres

A highlight of the celebrations is a series of culturally rooted encounters curated for visitors of all ages at the Tembo Deck.

From January 1 to 3, 2026, guests will have the rare opportunity to meet professional sumo wrestlers from Kise Stable, based in Tokyo’s Sumida Ward. Visitors can take commemorative photographs and participate in strength-based challenges, a tradition believed to invite good fortune in Japanese culture.

On January 1, 2026, the timeless Shishimai (Lion Dance) will be performed to live music at Soramachi Plaza and the Tembo Deck. Deeply rooted in Japanese tradition, the lion dance is believed to ward off misfortune. A playful “bite” from the lion is considered a blessing for wisdom and well-being in the year ahead.

Families visiting during the season can also look forward to meeting Sorakara-chan, Tokyo Skytree’s beloved mascot. Dressed in a vibrant New Year kimono, Sorakara-chan will greet guests at the Tembo Deck from January 1 to 7, 2026, adding a cheerful and festive touch to the experience.

Year of the Dragon Takes Centre Stage

In keeping with the zodiac cycle, Tokyo Skytree’s New Year décor will pay tribute to the Year of the Dragon, a symbol of strength, energy, and transformation. Dragon-inspired installations will be paired with floral accents and traditional folding fans across Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Skytree Town, creating a visual story that reflects the spirit of renewal and forward momentum.

Festive Flavours and Seasonal Shopping

Celebrations extend beyond the observation decks into Tokyo Solamachi, the retail and dining destination at Tokyo Skytree Town.

Making its debut this season, the “Tokyo Solamachi Japan’s Best Foods Nakamise Festival” will bring together regional specialities from across Japan. Visitors can sample limited-edition curry buns from Kyoto, handmade oyaki from Nagano, and premium matcha lattes crafted by heritage tea brands, offering a flavourful way to welcome the New Year.
4F Sky Arena | December 29, 2025 – January 12, 2026

Another beloved New Year tradition, Fukubukuro or ‘Lucky Bags’, will be available at participating Solamachi stores. Each bag contains a surprise assortment of products curated for the season and is believed to bring good fortune to the buyer.

A Meaningful Start to 2026

From panoramic city views and zodiac-themed décor to time-honoured rituals, performances, and festive food, Tokyo Skytree Town offers a deeply atmospheric way to begin the year. For Indian travellers, it presents an opportunity to experience Tokyo’s New Year traditions in a way that feels both reflective and celebratory—high above the city and firmly rooted in culture.