For discerning investors or those seeking a reliable backup plan, the allure of a “golden visa” is hard to ignore. Various East Asian nations are rolling out long-term residency programs designed to offer a second home for expatriates. These initiatives are often accessible through substantial investments or specialized skill sets, aiming to draw in capital, talent, and innovation. The landscape is evolving rapidly, making it essential to stay informed about each country's offerings.

Rising Competition for Global Talent

As countries vie for international investors, the competition intensifies. Vietnam, for instance, has introduced a five-year “talent visa” with a streamlined renewal process, while Malaysia boasts a golden visa that can last up to 20 years for qualified applicants. Below, we delve into the specific programs offered by each country, based on insights from consultancy firms like Henley & Partners and Harvey Law Group.

1. Hong Kong: Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)

Hong Kong's CIES has been revitalized to attract high-net-worth individuals, reflecting the city’s continued appeal as a financial hub.

• Investment Requirement: A minimum of HK$30 million (approximately $3.86 million) in approved assets, which can include real estate, stocks, or business investments.
• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a clean immigration record, and demonstrate full ownership of the invested assets. Proof of financial stability and a viable business plan may also be required.
• Residency Pathway: Successful applicants receive temporary residency, with the opportunity to apply for permanent residency after seven years. Benefits include access to Hong Kong's robust healthcare system and educational institutions.

2. Malaysia: Two Residency Programs

Malaysia offers two primary pathways for residency through investment, each catering to different demographics and investment capacities.

Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)

• Financial Requirements: Applicants under 50 must deposit MYR 300,000 (about $68,000) in a fixed deposit account, while those over 50 must deposit MYR 150,000 (approximately $34,000).
• Eligibility Age: Minimum age of 35.
• Residency Duration: A 10-year multiple-entry visa, requiring at least 90 days of stay each year. This program also allows for family members to join, making it an attractive option for families.
• Additional Benefits: The program offers tax incentives, such as exemption from income tax on overseas income.

Premium Visa Programme (PVIP)

• Investment Requirement: A minimum investment of RM 1 million (around $240,000) in approved sectors.
• Age Restrictions: None, making it accessible to younger investors.
• Residency Duration: A 20-year multiple-entry visa issued in five-year increments, with no minimum stay requirement, offering flexibility for frequent travelers.
• Benefits: Investors can also enjoy Malaysia's rich culture, diverse cuisine, and beautiful landscapes.

3. Singapore: Global Investor Programme (GIP)

Singapore’s GIP provides a pathway to permanent residency for qualified global investors, reinforcing its position as a global business center.

• Investment Options:
  • Option A: Invest S$10 million (about $7.78 million) in a new or existing business in Singapore, contributing to the local economy.
  • Option B: Invest S$25 million in a fund approved by the Singapore Economic Development Board, supporting innovative startups.
• Eligibility: Applicants must possess a robust business track record, with prior entrepreneurial experience being highly advantageous.
• Residency Pathway: Permanent residency is granted upon approval, with eligibility for citizenship after two years. Note that Singapore prohibits dual citizenship, which may be a consideration for potential applicants.

4. Thailand: Elite Visa Program

Thailand’s Elite Visa offers attractive long-term residency options, appealing not only to investors but also to retirees and expatriates.

• Membership Fee: Starting from THB 650,000 ($19,300) for a five-year visa, with options for longer durations available.
• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must hold a foreign passport, have no criminal record, and meet standard immigration requirements.
• Benefits: Membership includes VIP airport services, government concierge assistance, and exclusive access to events, making it a premium choice for those seeking a luxurious lifestyle in Thailand. The program also promotes cultural integration and networking opportunities.

5. Vietnam: New Visa Schemes

Vietnam is enhancing its appeal to investors and skilled professionals with new visa offerings aimed at driving economic growth.

• Investor Visa: Valid for 10 years, offering a pathway to permanent residency after five years. This visa is designed for individuals willing to invest in sectors prioritized by the Vietnamese government.
• Talent Visa: Targeting high-skilled professionals in technology, finance, and healthcare, valid for five years, with an easy renewal process to encourage talent retention.
• Application Process: Expected to be entirely online, streamlining the experience and eliminating the need for embassy appointments. This modernization reflects Vietnam's commitment to attracting global talent.

6. Philippines: Diverse Golden Visa Options

The Philippines offers several residency options catering to foreign investors and retirees, making it an attractive destination in Southeast Asia.

Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV)

• Investment Requirement: A minimum investment of $75,000 in Philippine corporations, ideally in sectors that support national development.
• Eligibility: Applicants must be 21 or older, healthy, and free of criminal records. Family members can also be included in the application.
• Residency Benefits: Offers indefinite residency for the investor and their family, with no minimum stay required. Investors benefit from tax incentives on Philippine income only and enjoy duty-free import of goods.

Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV)

• Eligibility: Available for retirees aged 50 and above, with entry starting from a deposit of $10,000, which may vary based on pension income.
• Benefits: Lifetime stay, work and study rights, access to health insurance, and the ability to live anywhere in the Philippines. This visa provides a straightforward pathway for retirees seeking a serene lifestyle.

Each of these golden visa programs is designed with distinct features to appeal to various profiles, from investors to retirees. They provide flexible paths to residency, allowing individuals to experience the rich cultures, economic opportunities, and stunning landscapes of East Asia. However, applicants should be prepared to spend a certain amount of time in the host country to maintain their status. With the right investment and commitment, your dream of global living in East Asia could become a reality, offering not just a home, but a vibrant new lifestyle.

Emirates has unveiled a new milestone in its growth journey with the opening of a cutting-edge US$135 million crew training facility in Dubai, designed to strengthen its training capabilities and support one of the aviation industry’s most ambitious recruitment drives.

The new training centre, located near Emirates’ operations base and existing academies, will expand the airline’s training capacity by 54 percent. Equipped with full-flight simulators for the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777X, as well as advanced cabin service and safety mock-ups, the facility underscores the Dubai-based carrier’s commitment to operational excellence and world-class service standards.

Emirates’ Recruitment Push

Coinciding with the facility’s inauguration, Emirates confirmed a wave of new job openings covering a wide range of roles—from pilots and flight instructors to cabin safety trainers, simulator engineers, and technical staff to support the expanded operations. The airline is also continuing its large-scale cabin crew recruitment campaign, targeting thousands of applicants across global markets.

Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Chief Operating Officer, said the new centre represents a long-term investment in both people and infrastructure:
“Our new training centre underscores Emirates’ commitment to growth, technology, and safety. With this expanded capacity, we are preparing our workforce to support the arrival of next-generation aircraft while creating job opportunities that will have far-reaching impact across the aviation ecosystem in Dubai and beyond.”

Preparing for a New Fleet Era

The facility comes ahead of Emirates’ much-anticipated fleet renewal program. The airline has 65 Airbus A350s and more than 200 Boeing 777X aircraft scheduled for delivery starting from 2025, which will dramatically enlarge its capacity and global network. Training thousands of new flight and cabin crew members is critical to ensuring smooth operations and maintaining the airline’s industry-leading standards.

Emirates currently employs more than 100,000 people representing over 160 nationalities. With its new training investment, the airline is aiming to scale up staffing levels significantly in line with its operational growth.

Boosting Dubai’s Aviation Hub Status

Industry analysts see the training facility as part of Dubai’s wider strategy to reinforce its role as a leading global aviation hub. By attracting highly skilled aviation professionals, the centre will not only strengthen Emirates’ capabilities but also support Dubai’s economy through increased demand in hospitality, tourism, and support services.

How to Apply

Emirates has announced that job openings related to the new training facility will be posted on the airline’s official careers website in the coming weeks. Candidates with experience in multi-engine jets, aviation training, safety instruction, and simulator technology are especially encouraged to apply.

Employees will benefit from Emirates’ competitive salary benchmarks, housing allowances, medical coverage, and continuous learning opportunities designed to foster long-term career growth within the airline.

Looking Ahead

With investments in groundbreaking training infrastructure and the upcoming delivery of the next generation of aircraft, Emirates is signaling its commitment to shaping the future of long-haul aviation. The new centre is set to play a pivotal role in developing aviation talent and preparing the airline to meet the surging demand for global air travel over the next decade.

Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli is a five-star luxury hotel that offers the perfect mix of traditional Qatari culture and modern comfort. Located in the charming seaside town of Al Wakra, just 20 minutes from Doha, the hotel is built using two restored heritage houses that reflect Qatar’s rich history as a pearling and fishing village.

Its design features traditional thatched roofs, sea and desert-inspired colors, and peaceful courtyards, providing guests with an authentic and relaxing atmosphere by the Arabian Gulf.

Accommodation

The hotel has 101 rooms and suites, each decorated with local motifs but equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, blackout curtains, soundproof windows, and coffee machines. Suites have extra living space, making them ideal for families or longer stays.

The rooms are designed to offer comfort and privacy in a setting that’s peaceful and culturally rich.

Dining

Souq Al Wakra offers five diverse dining options including buffet and à la carte menus, all featuring fresh ingredients and expert chefs. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean seafood, Arabic fusion dishes, Azerbaijani specialties, or international cuisine.

Dining options include indoor restaurants, outdoor poolside lounges, traditional Bedouin-style "majlis" tents, and a ladies-only café.

Facilities and Services

• Spa & Wellness: A full spa with Vichy showers, hydrotherapy, hammams, jacuzzis, separate men’s and women’s sections, and a variety of massage treatments.
• Fitness: Two fully equipped fitness centers.
• Pools and Beach: Two outdoor swimming pools with sun loungers and direct access to Al Wakra Beach.
• Business & Events: Two meeting rooms with the latest audiovisual equipment, business center facilities, and personalized event planning for weddings and corporate events.
• Additional Services: Free parking, airport shuttle, 24-hour front desk, dry cleaning, laundry, currency exchange, luggage storage, and concierge services.

Location

The hotel is positioned next to Al Wakra Souq, a traditional market, and Al Wakra Beach, offering guests cultural experiences and beautiful coastal views. It’s only a short drive to Doha city and the international airport, combining serenity with convenience. Nearby attractions include Al Wakra Park and Sealine Beach, perfect for outdoor and family activities.

Guest Experience

Guests consistently praise the hotel for its friendly and attentive staff, cleanliness, peaceful ambiance, and excellent food. It’s regarded as a perfect escape from the busy city life with easy access to Qatar’s cultural heritage. The hotel is ideal for families, couples, solo travelers, and business visitors who seek a blend of tradition, luxury, and tranquility.

In summary, Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli is a culturally rich and luxurious getaway by the sea, offering comfortable rooms, excellent dining, wellness facilities, and modern business conveniences, all surrounded by the charm of Qatar’s heritage.

Asia’s street food scene is an unparalleled celebration of culture, flavor, and culinary ingenuity. The continent’s best street food cities offer not only delicious dishes but stories of history, community, and identity told through food. From the bustling night markets of Thailand to the hidden alleys of Vietnam and Japan’s vibrant street stalls, these cities invite food lovers on an unforgettable edible journey.

1. Penang, Malaysia

Georgetown, Penang is often crowned the ultimate street food destination in Asia. A remarkable cultural blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan cuisines fuels its food scene. Famous dishes include the iconic char kuey teow—wok-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, eggs, and Chinese sausage tossed in a secret savory sauce—and assam laksa, a tangy fish-based noodle soup with tamarind and pineapples.

For a truly local experience, visit Goggles Man Char Kuey Teow or Left-handed Char Koay Teow, where locals passionately argue over the best versions of these staples. Penang’s vibrant street food isn’t just about taste—it's a portal into Malaysia’s multicultural heritage.

2. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi’s street food scene reveals the essence of Vietnamese culinary artistry. Narrow streets, vibrant alleys, and crowded corners are hotspots for traditional dishes like the fragrant northern phở, crispy bánh mì sandwiches filled with barbecue pork, and delicate bánh cuốn, steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork and mushrooms. One can find gems inside hidden stairways and modest homes, such as Phở Hàng Trống or Bánh Cuốn Bà Lộc. The city combines history and flavor, with every bite telling a story of a rich gastronomic legacy.

3. Singapore

Singapore’s hawker culture, inscribed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, boasts more than 200 hawker centers brimming with an array of food stalls. Signature dishes include laksa, a spicy coconut milk noodle soup; fried carrot cake, a savory dish of stir-fried radish cake; bak kut teh, a peppery pork rib soup; and Hainanese chicken rice, Singapore’s national dish. To avoid tourist crowds at Maxwell Food Centre, venture to Golden Mile Food Centre or Amoy Street Food Centre for exceptional eats and local ambiance.

4. Mumbai, India

Mumbai’s street food is a kaleidoscope of flavors reflecting Indian diversity and colonial influences. Spicy, tangy, and hearty dishes like pav bhaji (a spiced vegetable mash served with buttered bread), bhelpuri (a crunchy, tangy puffed rice snack), and fresh dosas (fermented rice crepes) captivate the senses. Mumbai’s street food is lively, often chaotic yet incredibly rewarding, best explored with local guides or through food tours like Chef's Tour to navigate the best hidden street vendors.

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai’s street food scene is a northern Thai feast centered on bold, chili-forward flavors. The city’s night markets, including Phaploen and Chang Puak Gate, offer delicacies such as larb (a spicy minced meat salad) and smoky northern Thai sausage. The legendary "cowboy hat lady," famous for her succulent pork knuckles, is a must-visit food icon. SP Chicken’s charcoal-grilled rotisserie chicken is another cherished spot, distinguished by its smoky aroma and tender meat.

6. Tainan, Taiwan

Tainan, Taiwan’s ancient capital, is revered as the island's food capital. It offers perfected recipes like beef soup passed down through generations. Visitors should explore its narrow, lantern-lit alleys for queues at popular spots such as Small Park Danzai Noodles, noted for egg noodles in both pork broth and sauce, and Six Thousand Beef Soup, known for its tender beef servings. Adventurous eaters can try eel noodles at Fu Sheng Small Good, which combines sweetness and savoriness in a unique dish.

7. Osaka, Japan

Osaka, nicknamed “Japan’s kitchen,” delivers street food with a flair for creativity and precision. Famous street snacks include takoyaki (fried octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), both found in abundance in the bustling Dotonbori district. Kushikatsu, deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables, are perfect with a refreshing highball drink at places like Kushikatsu Daruma. Beyond tourist spots, Osaka offers small, authentic hole-in-the-wall vendors for explorers seeking culinary authenticity.

8. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is undoubtedly one of Asia’s most iconic street food capitals, known for its endless variety from crab omelette at Jay Fai to mango sticky rice in Chinatown. Banthat Thong Road offers numerous Thai classics like tom yum and larb, while Chinatown’s alleyways hide jewel-like stalls with satay skewers, green curry, and delectable desserts. The street food melds local tradition with accessibility, suiting both fiery taste seekers and casual diners.

9. Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Phnom Penh presents an authentic and robust street food culture with dishes shaped by local ingredients like prahok (fermented fish paste) and fiery chilies. Signature flavors include fish amok, a delicate coconut curry steamed in banana leaves, and num pang, Cambodia’s take on the bánh mì sandwich. Markets such as the Central Market and Russian Market are excellent places to sample fresh, vibrant street food offerings at affordable prices. For adventurous eaters, the Khmer variant of balut (pong tia koun) is a local delicacy.

10. Chengdu, China

Chengdu, the heart of Sichuan cuisine, is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy famed for its spicy, mouth-tingling dishes. The city’s night markets offer mapo tofu, tofu served in a fiery chili and bean paste sauce, and dan dan noodles, egg noodles drenched in chili oil and minced meats. The vibrant food streets such as Sanse Road Night Market and Jianshe Road Food Street provide authentic experiences to savor Sichuan’s bold tastes and traditions.

These 10 cities represent the pinnacle of Asia’s street food culture, offering not only exceptional dishes but also immersive cultural experiences that bring travelers closer to everyday Asian life through food. From affordable local favorites to iconic dishes renowned worldwide, the street food journey in these cities is a gateway to understanding Asia’s gastronomic heritage.

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has joined forces with AGEOP Ricerca to bring comfort and joy to children battling cancer in Bologna. As part of this heartfelt initiative, Emirates donated 200 backpacks and activity books to young patients receiving treatment at the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department of IRCCS Policlinico di Sant’Orsola.

AGEOP Ricerca, an independent association active since 1982, supports children with cancer and their families, many of whom travel from across Italy and abroad to access specialized therapies unavailable in their hometowns. This collaboration underscores Emirates’ commitment to “connecting communities” by forging meaningful relationships and making a positive difference in the places it serves.

The backpacks, a signature item given to young passengers onboard Emirates flights, have been repurposed to offer encouragement, familiarity, and a sense of normalcy to children facing difficult medical challenges.

Flavio Ghiringhelli, Emirates’ Country Manager in Italy, expressed the airline’s pride in supporting the local community: “We’ve long sought a project that would allow us to support the local community in a truly meaningful way. We’re especially proud this initiative is taking place in Bologna, where we are celebrating ten years since our first flight to the city. It reflects our deep roots here, and it’s a tangible way of showing the children and their families that they are not alone — that a global community stands with them, even from thousands of kilometres away.”

Francesca Testoni, General Director of AGEOP Ricerca, highlighted the significance of the donation, especially during summer: “Each and every backpack that Emirates donates represents more than the object itself: it is a thought, a kind touch, a sign of attention from those beyond the walls of the pediatric oncology hospital. Receiving these during the summer, a time when most people think of vacations but paediatric cancer patients cannot, means so much. It helps ease loneliness and reminds us they are supported. We are very thankful to Emirates for enabling us to maintain crucial care programs — programs that must never stop.”

The donation aims to brighten the hospital experience with moments of fun and distraction, particularly at a time when social opportunities can be scarce. This thoughtful act complements Emirates’ broader mission to connect communities not just through its global flight network, but through solidarity and care for those in need.

Since its launch in 2013, Greece’s Golden Visa Program has emerged as one of Europe’s most affordable and attractive residence-by-investment schemes. Designed to draw foreign investors and their families, the program offers permanent residence permits in Greece in exchange for qualifying investments. Beyond securing a foothold in this picturesque Mediterranean country, holders enjoy visa-free access to the broader Schengen Area, unlocking opportunities for travel, education, and long-term settlement throughout much of Europe.

At its core, the Golden Visa grants investors the right to live in Greece without requiring them to reside there permanently. While the investment must be maintained to renew the residence permit every five years, applicants can pursue Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residence—a compelling prospect for those seeking deeper ties to Europe.

One of the program’s key attractions is its family inclusion provision, allowing the primary applicant to include their spouse, dependent children under 21, and dependent parents from both sides, offering a pathway for entire families to benefit from the residence permit.

The program’s investment thresholds vary according to the type and location of assets. The most accessible option starts at €250,000, specifically for specialized real estate projects like restoration of listed buildings or conversion of commercial properties. For broader real estate purchases, a minimum investment of €400,000 is required for a single property of at least 120 sqm, with prime locations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and the larger Greek islands commanding a higher threshold of €800,000.

Beyond property, the scheme includes other qualifying routes. Investors can opt for long-term lease agreements for hotels or furnished tourist residences, generally valued between €400,000 and €800,000 based on location. Financial investments are also accepted, including a €500,000 deposit in Greek credit institutions, capital contributions of the same amount in Greek companies or mutual funds, or the purchase of government bonds maturing in at least three years. Additionally, investments in listed shares, corporate bonds, or mutual funds linked to Greece range from €350,000 to €800,000.

For global investors, the program offers a wealth of benefits. Apart from visa-free travel across the Schengen zone, holders can live in Greece without mandatory minimum stays. Investment properties may be rented out, while shares in Greek companies can yield dividends, providing financial flexibility. As long as the investment is maintained, the residence permit has no expiry limit and can be renewed every five years.

Furthermore, residents gain access to Greece’s reputable education and healthcare systems, enhancing its appeal for families seeking stability and quality of life in Europe.

The application process typically involves four key steps. Prospective investors first visit Greece to select their preferred investment. They then complete their property purchase or financial transaction before submitting the application accompanied by essential documents such as passports, proof of investment, health insurance, and clean criminal records. After undergoing final verification, the residence permit is issued. Processing times can vary, with many applicants engaging legal and advisory firms to ensure compliance with all documentation requirements.

Greece’s Golden Visa Program stands out not only because of its affordability but also due to the country’s stable legal system, quality healthcare, and solid education network. Its strategic geographic location facilitates easy connections to Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a gateway for global mobility.

Today, the Greece Golden Visa remains a top choice for investors seeking residency security and enhanced mobility within Europe. With its adaptable investment options, family inclusiveness, and an inviting lifestyle, the program continues to attract applicants from around the world eager to make Greece their new home.