Vinpearl Woos Indian Luxury Travelers with Strategic Two-Pronged Focus

Vinpearl Woos Indian Luxury Travelers with Strategic Two-Pronged Focus

By Nishang Narayan

Published on November 10, 2024

Vietnam's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty have made it an increasingly attractive destination for Indian travelers. Leading this appeal is Vinpearl, a premier resort brand that has strategically focused on luxury wedding tourism and high-end MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) services, significantly enhancing its appeal to this growing market.

Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

Over the past decade, Vietnam has emerged as a prime travel destination for Indian tourists, offering a captivating blend of scenic beauty and a rapidly expanding luxury tourism market. Vinpearl stands at the forefront, catering to high-end travelers with a seamless mix of local culture and modern luxury.

With strategic investments in facilities designed for both business and leisure, Vinpearl has positioned itself as a top choice for affluent Indian tourists seeking memorable experiences and unique destinations for milestone events like weddings and MICE.

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Rising Interest from Indian Tourists

Data from Vietnam's National Tourism Administration indicates a striking increase in interest from India, with over 392,000 Indian tourists welcomed in 2023 alone—a number expected to continue climbing as global travel rebounds. Vietnam's appeal lies in its ample infrastructure and convenient direct flights (taking just 4-5 hours), making it a highly accessible getaway for Indian families and business travelers alike. The country’s diverse landscapes, temperate climate, and rich cultural heritage make it a compelling choice for all types of visitors.

Notably, there is a growing trend toward high-end, niche tourism services, especially in the realm of destination weddings. According to Ms. Ngo Thi Huong, Deputy CEO of Vinpearl, “This year alone, Vinpearl has hosted over ten billionaire weddings from India, and this number is projected to double by 2025. Vietnam is fast becoming a prime destination for weddings, MICE, and golf tourism on the global stage.”

Custom Experiences for Indian Tourists

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Vinpearl, a subsidiary of the Vingroup conglomerate, is meeting this demand by creating custom, high-quality experiences. Recent high-profile events, such as the four-day wedding celebration of Pranay Karnawat and Sakshi Sanghvi at Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, demonstrate this commitment. The wedding artfully blended Indian and Vietnamese cultural elements, showcasing traditional lanterns, lotus flowers, and conical hats, while ensuring that cuisine and decor are tailored to Indian preferences.

Shaping Vietnam's MICE Tourism

In addition to high-end leisure tourism, Vinpearl has made remarkable progress in the MICE sector. Properties like Vinpearl Nha Trang and Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An have earned prestigious ASEAN MICE Venue accolades, marking them as premier locations for international business events.

These resorts provide a comprehensive suite of services for events of all scales, from direct and online international meetings to team-building exercises and client conferences. Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, for instance, has become a favored destination for corporate events. It features a Grand Ballroom spanning 720 square meters, accommodating up to 600 guests, alongside six modern meeting rooms and four high-end conference spaces. Guests can also engage in team-building activities along the resort's 1,300-meter beachfront or explore the adjacent VinWonders amusement park for interactive cultural and entertainment experiences.

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A Premier Venue for Large-Scale Events

Another standout property, Vinpearl Nha Trang on Hon Tre Island, provides a unique venue for MICE tourism. This secluded resort ecosystem includes multiple Vinpearl hotels, an array of entertainment options at VinWonders, and Vinpearl Harbour, a world-class marina. The Vinpearl Convention Center, designed in European palace style, can accommodate up to 2,500 guests, making it ideal for high-profile, large-scale events.

The Future of MICE in Vietnam

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With global MICE tourism revenue projected to exceed $1.4 trillion by 2025, the World Tourism Organization has highlighted MICE as one of the most promising sectors in tourism. Recognizing this potential, Vietnam has made MICE development a strategic priority, with Vinpearl's stronghold in MICE tourism playing a vital role.

Vinpearl's dual focus on MICE and luxury wedding tourism has established it as a leader in Vietnam's high-end hospitality sector, drawing affluent Indian travelers seeking exceptional experiences. Through its presence, Vinpearl exemplifies the future of Vietnamese hospitality, promising unique and captivating experiences to travelers from India and beyond.


PRISM Expands U.S. Extended-Stay Portfolio with 38 New Hotel Openings under Studio 6

PRISM Expands U.S. Extended-Stay Portfolio with 38 New Hotel Openings under Studio 6

By Hariharan U

Published on May 26, 2026

PRISM, the parent company of OYO, has expanded its U.S. extended-stay footprint with the launch of 38 new hotels under the Studio 6 brand operated through G6 Hospitality.

The portfolio spans major gateway cities such as New York, Dallas, Houston, and Phoenix, along with business hubs including Charlotte, St Louis, Richmond, and Indianapolis. It also includes leisure-focused destinations like Las Vegas and suburban markets such as Oakland, Greenville, and Pasadena.

The Studio 6 brand focuses on extended-stay accommodations designed for guests staying several days to weeks. The properties typically offer kitchenettes, workspaces, laundry facilities, high-speed internet, and flexible housekeeping services, catering to corporate travellers, relocating families, and project-based professionals.

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Each hotel features approximately 100–120 rooms, a configuration that supports operational efficiency while serving consistent long-stay demand. PRISM is positioning the segment as a high-efficiency hospitality model, driven by lower turnover costs, reduced housekeeping frequency, and improved occupancy stability.

The company has stated that the expansion is part of its broader strategy to transition from a domestic hospitality platform to a globally scaled operator, leveraging India-built technology, AI systems, and revenue management tools across its international portfolio.

Speaking on the development, PRISM, the parent company of OYO, has expanded its U.S. extended-stay footprint with the launch of 38 new hotels under the Studio 6 brand operated through G6 Hospitality.

The portfolio spans major gateway cities such as New York, Dallas, Houston, and Phoenix, along with business hubs including Charlotte, St Louis, Richmond, and Indianapolis. It also includes leisure-focused destinations like Las Vegas and suburban markets such as Oakland, Greenville, and Pasadena.

The Studio 6 brand focuses on extended-stay accommodations designed for guests staying several days to weeks. The properties typically offer kitchenettes, workspaces, laundry facilities, high-speed internet, and flexible housekeeping services, catering to corporate travellers, relocating families, and project-based professionals.

Each hotel features approximately 100–120 rooms, a configuration that supports operational efficiency while serving consistent long-stay demand. PRISM is positioning the segment as a high-efficiency hospitality model, driven by lower turnover costs, reduced housekeeping frequency, and improved occupancy stability.

The company has stated that the expansion is part of its broader strategy to transition from a domestic hospitality platform to a globally scaled operator, leveraging India-built technology, AI systems, and revenue management tools across its international portfolio.

Speaking on the development, Ritesh Agarwal said the U.S. market is witnessing a structural shift toward longer-duration stays driven by corporate assignments, medical travel, construction projects, and temporary relocations. He added that the expansion aims to deliver a tech-enabled, operations-first hospitality model focused on consistency and affordability.

The latest rollout follows PRISM’s approximately $525 million acquisition of G6 Hospitality and builds on earlier phases that included eight initial hotel openings, followed by 30 additional properties in the current expansion cycle.

The move highlights growing momentum in the U.S. extended-stay segment, which continues to attract investor interest due to stable demand patterns and efficient operating economics.

 said the U.S. market is witnessing a structural shift toward longer-duration stays driven by corporate assignments, medical travel, construction projects, and temporary relocations. He added that the expansion aims to deliver a tech-enabled, operations-first hospitality model focused on consistency and affordability.

The latest rollout follows PRISM’s approximately $525 million acquisition of G6 Hospitality and builds on earlier phases that included eight initial hotel openings, followed by 30 additional properties in the current expansion cycle.

The move highlights growing momentum in the U.S. extended-stay segment, which continues to attract investor interest due to stable demand patterns and efficient operating economics.


Saudia Becomes First in Middle East & Africa to Take Delivery of Airbus A321XLR

Saudia Becomes First in Middle East & Africa to Take Delivery of Airbus A321XLR

By Hariharan U

Published on May 26, 2026

Saudia has announced the induction of its first Airbus A321XLR, becoming the first airline in the Middle East and Africa region to operate the new-generation long-range narrow-body aircraft.

The delivery marks a significant step in Saudia’s ongoing fleet modernisation programme, aimed at improving operational efficiency, expanding international connectivity, and enhancing overall passenger experience. With a range of up to 8,700 kilometres and flight endurance of around nine hours, the aircraft allows the airline to operate longer routes using a more efficient narrow-body configuration.

The aircraft also debuts “The New Saudia Experience,” the airline’s refreshed onboard product focused on comfort, connectivity, entertainment, dining, and service consistency. The cabin features 24 Business Class suites designed for privacy and premium comfort, along with 120 Economy Class seats equipped with larger personal screens and charging ports.

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High-speed inflight connectivity will enable passengers to browse, stream content, and attend virtual meetings during flights. Business Class travellers will also benefit from an enhanced dining experience, including chef-curated menus featuring Saudi and international cuisine.

Speaking on the milestone, Ibrahim Al-Omar said the delivery reflects the airline’s broader transformation strategy, focusing not only on capacity expansion but also on elevating product quality and operational performance in line with national aviation ambitions.

The aircraft induction is part of Saudia Group’s wider order of 105 Airbus aircraft, which is also expected to generate economic value through local supplier development and integration into global aviation supply chains.

Saudia is scheduled to add 15 Airbus A321XLR aircraft by 2027 as part of its expansion roadmap, supporting network growth across tourism, business travel, pilgrimage, and major international events aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.


Chef Mahesh Dhami Joins Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen as Executive Chef

Chef Mahesh Dhami Joins Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen as Executive Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 26, 2026

Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen in McAllen, Texas has announced the appointment of Chef Mahesh Dhami as its new Executive Chef. Bringing more than 14 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Indian fine dining, and modern gastronomy, Chef Dhami joins the leadership team with a strong background in culinary innovation and operations.

Recognised for his expertise in regional Indian cuisines and creative menu development, Chef Dhami will oversee all culinary functions at Zaya. His responsibilities will include menu innovation, kitchen operations, team training, food quality standards, and enhancing the overall dining experience for guests.

Before joining Zaya, Chef Dhami was associated with Musaafer by Spice Route in Houston, Texas, a Michelin-recognized Indian fine dining restaurant known for its progressive take on Indian cuisine in the United States. During his time there, he progressed from Junior Sous Chef to Sous Chef within a year, reflecting his strong leadership abilities and operational expertise.

Chef Dhami received his professional culinary training at The Taj Mahal Hotel through the Hotel Operations Management Training (HOMT) program. He further sharpened his skills at well-known culinary establishments including Masala Art and Machan, where he gained valuable experience across luxury hospitality, banquet operations, and traditional Indian cooking.

His expertise spans Awadhi, Mughlai, Rajasthani, and South Indian cuisines. By combining traditional Indian flavours with contemporary cooking methods, tasting experiences, and artistic presentation styles, Chef Dhami brings a balanced approach to modern dining. His experience also extends to menu engineering, food costing, team development, and luxury restaurant operations.

“I am honored to join Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen and lead a concept that values authenticity and innovation. My goal is to create memorable dining experiences that celebrate the richness of Indian cuisine through modern techniques and thoughtful presentation,” said Chef Mahesh Dhami.

With Chef Dhami taking charge of the culinary direction, Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen aims to further strengthen its position as one of South Texas’ emerging destinations for elevated Indian and Persian dining experiences.

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