The Asia Financial Forum (AFF) 2025, Hong Kong's flagship financial event, served as the perfect platform for showcasing the city's dynamic MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) tourism offerings. Organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), the event seamlessly blended business with leisure, demonstrating Hong Kong's renowned "spirit of hospitality" to approximately 100 global financial leaders.

Phoebe Shing, Director of Business Development Team Lead, MICE at HKTB, highlighted the event's significance, stating, "The Tourism Blueprint 2.0 reaffirms that hospitality is about creating rich, enjoyable experiences for visitors. AFF is an excellent opportunity to showcase Hong Kong-style hospitality to influential guests in the global financial field."

Unforgettable Experiences Beyond the Boardroom

Participants were treated to a curated selection of iconic Hong Kong experiences, blending the city's modern vibrancy with its cultural heritage.

Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428

Guests were whisked from the bustling conference venue to serene panoramic views atop Sky Terrace 428 via the historic Peak Tram. The journey included a visit to Lion's Point View Pavilion, where they admired stunning cityscapes. Nostalgic Hong Kong snacks and trinkets at a local store added a delightful touch.

Dr. Jochen Biedermann, Managing Director of World Alliance of International Financial Centres, remarked, "AFF stimulates the mind, but the Peak Tram tour was a feast for the eyes. It's great to see how the station has been modernized, making the Peak a must-visit for both tourists and business travelers."

Victoria Harbour Cruise on Aqua Luna

A sunset cruise aboard the iconic Aqua Luna junk boat offered a breathtaking view of Hong Kong's skyline, leaving participants in awe of the city's beauty.

Marc Baghadjian, CEO & Co-founder of Hypercard American Express, shared, "In the negotiation room, you miss the city’s beauty. The Aqua Luna tour lets you experience the vibrancy and stunning skyline of Hong Kong—it’s like seeing the Hong Kong dream unfold."

Cultural Heritage in Old Town Central

Guests explored Hong Kong’s rich history with a visit to Man Mo Temple, participating in a Gold Foil Paste Ceremony to pray for good fortune. The journey continued with a guided tour of Tai Kwun, a revitalized heritage site that blends history with modern hospitality.

Felix Katterl, Partner at Soutien Group, expressed, "It’s my first visit, and the diversity here is incredible. From heritage to modern offerings, Hong Kong has a unique charm. Tai Kwun’s transformation is stunning—I can’t wait to return with my family."

Strengthening Hong Kong’s Position as the "World’s Meeting Place"

With its blend of modern business infrastructure and cultural richness, Hong Kong continues to solidify its status as a premier destination for MICE tourism. The experiences curated during AFF 2025 reflect the city's commitment to elevating hospitality and leaving a lasting impression on high-yield visitors.

For global leaders attending events like AFF, Hong Kong is not just a business destination—it’s an unforgettable experience.

Patna now enjoys enhanced connectivity with the launch of Air India Express operations, which introduced three direct flights to Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, and Hyderabad. The inaugural flights, part of the airline’s strategy to connect emerging cities with key domestic and international destinations, were celebrated at a vibrant event at Jay Prakash Narayan Airport, attended by senior officials from the Airport Authority of India, Air India Express, and other key stakeholders.

Enhanced Connectivity for Patna

With 21 weekly flights, Air India Express now connects Patna directly to three major cities:

• Bengaluru: India’s ‘Silicon Valley’ and technology hub.
• Bhubaneswar: The ‘Temple City’ and a center for tourism and economic growth.
• Hyderabad: The ‘City of Pearls’ and a leading IT and pharmaceutical hub.

In addition to direct flights, passengers from Patna can access 14 domestic destinations, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Goa, and Jaipur, and 2 international destinations—Abu Dhabi and Dammam—via one-stop connections.

Flight Schedule (Effective January 15, 2025)

Rapid Network Expansion

Air India Express is in a phase of rapid growth, supported by its expanding fleet nearing the 100-aircraft milestone. The airline recently surpassed 50 destinations, including domestic locations like Dimapur, Dibrugarh, and Jammu, and international additions such as Bangkok and Phuket. With over 400 daily flights, a 30% increase from the previous year, Air India Express is strengthening its presence in India’s aviation landscape.

Vacation Planning Made Easy with Xpress Holidays

To complement its growing network, Air India Express offers Xpress Holidays, a platform for booking comprehensive vacation packages. Travelers can conveniently plan trips with flights, accommodations, transport, and curated experiences, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

With this latest expansion, Air India Express reaffirms its commitment to enhancing connectivity and providing passengers with accessible, efficient, and memorable travel options.

About Air India Express 

Air India Express is A Tata Enterprise and a subsidiary of Air India, operating over 400 daily flights, connecting 37 domestic and 16 international airports, with a fleet of 94 aircraft, comprising 62 Boeing 737s and 32 Airbus A320s. Air India Express invites guests with the proposition to ‘Fly As You Are’, using thoughtfully considered technology to enable flyers to personalise and take charge of their travel experience. The airline offers ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, comfortable seats, and a host of exclusive loyalty benefits with a sense of unique Indian warmth, and an award-winning digital experience on its mobile app and website, airindiaexpress.com. 

Uber, India’s leading ride-hailing platform, has announced a strategic partnership with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) at Prayagraj Airport to deliver seamless and efficient transportation solutions. This collaboration aims to cater to millions of pilgrims and travellers visiting Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the largest religious gatherings globally, expected to attract over 40 crore participants.

Key Highlights of the Partnership

1. Dedicated Pickup Zones: Uber will establish designated pickup zones at Prayagraj Airport with on-ground assistance and clear signage for a hassle-free experience.
2. Exclusive Discounts: Travellers can avail 25% off (up to Rs 200) on rides originating from Prayagraj Airport, making mobility more affordable.
3. Enhanced Technology: Users can book rides effortlessly through the Uber app, benefiting from reliable, tech-driven transportation solutions.

Strategic MoU and Airport Expansion

In April 2023, Uber signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AAI, extending its services to 20 AAI-operated airports across India. This latest collaboration at Prayagraj Airport underscores Uber’s commitment to supporting large-scale events like the Maha Kumbh Mela and meeting the growing demands of air travellers.

Leadership Insights

Director of Prayagraj Airport, Airports Authority of India, remarked:

“As Prayagraj prepares for the monumental Maha Kumbh Mela, ensuring seamless and reliable transportation is critical. Our collaboration with Uber enhances passenger convenience and strengthens the city’s infrastructure during this significant event. Uber’s innovative technology and on-ground support will greatly benefit travellers and contribute to the success of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.”

Shiva Shailendran, Director of Supply Operations, Uber India and South Asia, said:

“We are thrilled to partner with the Airports Authority of India at Prayagraj Airport. By integrating advanced technology with on-ground support, we aim to provide smooth, comfortable, and reliable mobility solutions during this iconic spiritual gathering. Our commitment extends to both passengers and drivers, ensuring a seamless experience for all.”

The partnership is also set to boost local economies by creating additional earning opportunities for Uber driver-partners during the peak travel season.

About Uber

Uber has been redefining mobility since its launch in India in 2013. Over the past decade, it has completed over 3 billion trips across 125 cities, offering a variety of services, including Moto, Auto, Cars, and Buses. With a focus on safe, reliable, and efficient mobility solutions, Uber continues to innovate, prioritizing customer satisfaction and driver empowerment.

For more information, visit Uber.com.