Avlesh Singh, Co-founder & CEO, WebEngage, said, “Akasa Air has a unique approach towards its customers which stems from the brand’s values and a customer-centric approach…reports Asian Lite News
WebEngage, the leading marketing automation platform announced that it has partnered with India’s newest and most dependable airline, Akasa Air. In line with its strategy to build a tech-first and customer-centric organisation, Akasa Air has deployed WebEngage’s marketing automation platform to enhance its customer engagement strategy. WebEngage will collaborate with Akasa Air to deliver unparalleled customer engagement across its web and mobile channels with relevant, personalized and contextual communication.
Commenting on the partnership, Belson Coutinho, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing & Experience Officer, Akasa Air, said, “We are pleased to partner with WebEngage and leverage its cutting-edge marketing automation platform to build brand loyalty, increase customer engagement and drive conversions with one-on-one communication. Akasa is hyper-focused on customer centricity, and the platform will enable us to leverage real-time analytics to connect with users on a channel of their choice.”
Avlesh Singh, Co-founder & CEO, WebEngage, said, “Akasa Air has a unique approach towards its customers which stems from the brand’s values and a customer-centric approach. WebEngage’s retention platform will facilitate Akasa Air to replicate its on-ground and inflight experience across all its digital touchpoints through our smart, data-driven and fully automated retention platform. We believe that Akasa Air is here to transform customer experience for the airline sector and we are delighted to be their partners in this journey.”
WebEngage is on a unique mission. It believes that no business should need to work too hard to engage and retain its customers. WebEngage is also assisting them to scale through a robust customer data and analytics platform, personalization engine, and an omnichannel campaign orchestration system. WebEngage has cemented its commitment and focus to the Enterprise ecosystem and its full-stack retention operating System is used and recommended by 800+ marketers across the globe.
The lawmakers urged the USCIS to extend the 60-day grace period for laid-off H-1B holders to secure a new job before losing their legal status….reports Asian Lite News
Amid the massive ongoing layoffs in the tech sector, a group of lawmakers from Silicon Valley has written to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) enquiring about the federal agency’s efforts to ensure highly-skilled H-1B visa holders can remain in the country after losing their jobs.
With a bevy of employees laid off across tech giants including Microsoft, Google, Meta, in the past couple of months, the H-1B visa holders have been left in a limbo with a mere 60-day grace period to find another job, or leave the country.
“This group of immigrants possesses skills that are highly valuable in today’s knowledge-based economy and forcing them to leave the US is harmful to our nation’s long-term economic competitiveness,” the lawmakers wrote.
Cap reached for H-2B visas for second half of FY 2023
“This issue is of great importance to our constituents because layoffs in the tech sector have accelerated in recent months. The number of tech jobs lost since the beginning of 2023 has already surpassed the total number of layoffs in 2022,” they said.
The lawmakers urged the USCIS to extend the 60-day grace period for laid-off H-1B holders to secure a new job before losing their legal status.
They also requested that USCIS release data detailing the impact of the layoffs on affected immigrants, and inquires about whether the agency has issued guidance to adjudicators in response to the layoffs.
The USCIS had earlier stated that extending the grace period would require a lengthy rulemaking process that would take too long to benefit immigrants who are currently at risk of losing their legal status.
“While we understand that such a change may take time, we nonetheless urge USCIS to pursue an extension of the grace period, either as a standalone regulatory change or as part of a broader effort to reform the H-1B program,” the letter read.
The lawmakers said that extending the grace period will strengthen the country’s ability to retain immigrant talent in the future.
The USCIS recently said that the sacked H-1B workers have multiple options to stay in the country, and it is wrong to assume that they have no option but to leave within 60 days.
The number of tech jobs lost since the beginning of 2023 has already surpassed the total number of layoffs in 2022.
With the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank causing further disruptions in the tech sector, the lawmakers said they feared that the trend would continue.
Led by Representative Anna G. Eshoo, the letter was signed by Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna, Zoe Lofgren, former Chair of the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship, and Representatives Jimmy Panetta and Kevin Mullin.
It sent a list of five questions to the immigration agency requesting it to respond by May 5. The H-1B is a non-immigrant visa that permits US companies to hire foreign workers in speciality occupations, which require theoretical or technical expertise. It is the most sought-after work visa among foreign professionals, including Indians.
Amid layoffs, tech firms continue to exploit H-1B visa programme: Study
Tech firms exploit H-1B visa programme
Amid massive ongoing layoffs in the tech sector, the top 30 H-1B visa employers hired 34,000 new workers in 2022 and laid off at least 85,000 workers in 2022 and early 2023, an Economic Policy Institute (EPI) analysis found.
According to EPI researchers, tech and outsourcing companies are exploiting the highly-skilled H-1B visa program, created to fill labor shortages in professional fields, by laying-off a bevy of workers employed in firms like Meta, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, etc.
“Most employers hire H-1B workers because they can be underpaid and are de facto indentured to the employer,” the EPI research said.
Also, 13 of the top 30 H-1B visa employers were outsourcing firms that underpay migrant workers and offshore US jobs to countries where labor costs are much lower.
“Its implementation has been bungled by the US Departments of Labor and Homeland Security,” the analysis said, adding that since employers aren’t required to test the US labor market to see if any workers are available before hiring an H-1B worker or pay their H-1B workers a fair wage, employers have exploited the program.
ECI said, in 2022, 48,000 employers registered with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in hopes of hiring at least one H-1B worker, and nearly 30,000 employers ultimately hired at least one new H-1B worker.
Citing an example, the ECI research said Amazon was at the top of the list in terms of both new H-1B workers and layoffs. It hired 6,400 new H-1B workers in 2022, and hired the most new H-1B workers in 2021 as well, when it hired nearly 6,200 workers. The tech giant has either recently laid off or plans to lay off 27,150 of its employees — more than twice the number of H-1B workers it hired in 2021 and 2022 combined.
Google and Meta, both long-time top H-1B employers, together hired over 3,100 new H-1B workers last year. The duo laid off 33,000 employees, almost 11 times the number of new H-1B workers they hired in 2022.
The H-1B program is the largest US temporary work visa program, with a total of approximately 600,000 workers employed by 50,000 employers.
Most of these workers are employed in occupations like computer systems analysis and software development.
Visas for new workers are capped at 85,000 per year, but many employers are exempt from that annual cap, including universities and their affiliated nonprofit entities, nonprofit research organizations, and government research organizations.
The study urged President Joe Biden to “implement regulations and policy guidance to prevent misuse of the program, stop the exploitation of college-educated migrant workers, and ensure the program is consistent with congressional intent”.
The Palace hotel shines the spotlight on its in-house chocolate factory with a new chocolate Easter Egg by Chef chocolatier Johan Giacchetti, echoed by a custom art installation in the lobby…reports Asian Lite News
Enjoy a blissful and joy-filled Easter celebration with JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING in the Maldives, indulge in a hearty feast with The Hari Hong Kong or sample decadent chocolate masterpiece Easter creations from Cheval Blanc Paris and Le Bristol Paris.
A Joy-Filled Easter Celebration at JOALI Maldives
JOALI Maldives, “the Island of Joy” has curated a schedule of activities between the April 6-12, 2023 this Easter. Guests of all ages can discover endless opportunities for spectacular adventure, creativity, exhilaration, and indulgence to suit all interests. Expect to be Easter-themed family fun with an egg treasure hunt, games, arts and crafts, and baking activities at the Muramas Kids Club, indulgent culinary feasts with specially curated menus at their signature restaurants, art workshops available, and the adventurous souls can indulge themselves with private speedboat trips, paddle boarding, and water sport activities. Guests who prefer the idea of relaxation can spend their days doing yoga or meditating at JOALI’s ESPA Spa.
5 properties for your perfect summer getaway(ianslife)
From April 14-18, 2023, JOALI Maldives will also host the Imagi-Nature Art festival, guests are given the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of art filled with unique creative works from artists around the world. On the April 15 which is World Art Day, there will be an extraordinary selection of contemporary art, in the form of exhibitions, artistic performances, and the unveiling of brand-new permanent installations. Celebrate Rebirth & Renewal This Easter at JOALI BEING
This Easter, welcome the magical JOALI BEING robin into your life. Symbolic of rebirth and renewal, this beautiful bird is regarded as a spirit guide, also signifying spring and a new beginning, filled with fresh hope and joy. This Easter, JOALI BEING will be hosting an array of unique culinary experiences, workshops and classes for both adults and children. For adults, there will be curated cooking sessions with Omega-3 rich foods led by JOALI BEING’S expert nutritionist, they can also learn to create skincare products with the use of natural ingredients, engage in a guided meditation with sound healing instruments or a yoga workshop and even join in an exhilarating dance routine workshop.
For children, they can participate in an outdoor exploration accompanied by sound therapy, or take up yoga classes which are complimentary for children during the Easter period. JOALI BEING is also welcoming expert visiting practitioners this Easter, specialising in transformative healing, natural healing, sound healing, and more. The practitioners will enable guests to take their well-being journeys to a new level, bringing them closer to experiencing the joy of weightlessness.
A joy-filled Easter celebration in Maldives.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Be Treated To An Egg-stra Special Easter at The Hari!
Celebrate Easter weekend with Lucciola Restaurant & Bar’s brunch, it is back for one day only on April 9, 2023. Kick off the meal with a selection of antipasti from the bar table offering cold cuts and cheeses, before indulging in the starter Torta Pasqualina which is a traditional Italian Easter pie, and some sharing dishes. Guests can also choose from a wide range of mains ranging from Handmade Spaghetti with Lobster Tail, US Hanger Steak, and many more. Delectable desserts from the trolley are then served to complete the experience, alongside coffee and tea. This decadent brunch is priced at HKD688.
From April 7-10, 2023, Lucciola’s dinner will be elevated and guests will be served an indulgent 5-course dinner. Start off with a welcome hors d’oeuvre followed by starters and a heartwarming homemade soup before moving onto a main. Guests can choose from a variety of mains such as US Prime Rib-eye Steak, Roasted Baby Goat, Pizza, and many more choices. The final course is a choice of dessert from Homemade Gelato to a specialty Easter Cake with Chocolate Sauce. This indulgent set dinner starts from HKD488 per person with coffee and tea included.
Cheval Blanc Paris Presents ‘Easter Bloom’ by Maxime Frederic
Maxime Fre’de’ric, Pastry Chef of Cheval Blanc Paris, and his teams have dreamed up a beautifully bucolic Easter creation. To celebrate the arrival of spring, they extend an invitation to stroll through a chocolate garden where the rose reigns supreme.
Slow down. Lean in. Inhale its scent. Observe. Marvel. A rose is blooming. The poetic rose presents silky petals and a corolla in 75 per cent dark chocolate made in the atelier of the chocolatier Nicolas Berger. These must be plucked delicately, with just the fingertips, to discover what lies at its tender heart: a chocolate egg filled with chocolate-coated, caramelised hazelnuts from Maxime Fre’de’ric’s family farm, Le Secret de Nos Vergers, in Normandy. The Queen of her realm, the rose reigns in majesty over a delicate bar of chocolate garnished with pistachios, candied raspberry, and rose jam.
An exceptional piece recalling a floral composition, made specially to grace gourmet tables, it serves 6-8 people and is priced at EUR180. Available by pre-order on www.cadeau-paris.chevalblanc.com Easter creation for pick up from April 6-9, 2023 at Cheval Blanc Paris.
Butterfly Effect: Le Bristol Paris celebrates springtime with custom Easter Egg and decor
The Palace hotel shines the spotlight on its in-house chocolate factory with a new chocolate Easter Egg by Chef chocolatier Johan Giacchetti, echoed by a custom art installation in the lobby.
This Easter season, the team is introducing a fresh, nature-inspired take on the annual Easter egg with their ‘Butterfly Effect’ creation. Hand-crafted out of dark chocolate from Madagascar the large egg stands erect on a chocolate foundation and is filled with a praline of crushed almonds, hazelnut morsels, and vanilla. In a design influenced by Chef Johan Giacchetti’s love for springtime nature walks, the egg is adorned by a delicate flourish of butterflies coloured in deep red lining the side as if to have landed there temporarily before fluttering away again.
To echo the chocolaterie’s elegant Easter egg creation, Le Bristol Paris’ lobby is decorated for springtime with a breathtaking installation of 20,000 paper butterflies created in France by Studio Bjorg in collaboration with renowned paper artist Mathilde Nivet.
The installation decorates the lobby’s central table, visible immediately upon entry through the hotel’s revolving doors. ‘Butterfly Effect’ chocolate Easter egg will be available at L’Epicerie des Ateliers du Bristol from March 22 to April 10, 2023 and is EUR90.
Pakistan International Airlines (https://twitter.com/Official_PIA)
Explaining the reason, Official said that around 35 per cent tax was deducted from the salaries of the pilots…reports Asian Lite News
Khaqan Murtaza, Director General (DG) of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), told a Senate panel that all pilots of the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) wanted to leave the flag carrier.
Explaining the reason for this to the Senate Standing Committee on Aviation, the DG said around 35 per cent tax was deducted from the salaries of the pilots, reports The Express Tribune.
He added that in addition to that, there was a tax imposed on flying hours of pilots too.
“Most of the times you hear about flight cancellations, the reason for this is the shortage of pilots,” he said.
Senator Mohsin Aziz, a member of the panel, inquired that the PIA would ever turn profitable in their lifetimes.
PIA CEO Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Amir Hayat replied that the national carrier was making operational profit, The Express Tribune reported.
Senator Aziz told him to inform the panel about the overall profit of the airline, and not just that of its operational.
The PIA CEO then switched to the subject of pilots’ licences.
He said there were 141 pilots with questionable licences, adding that 69 of them had been cleared.
The DG told the panel that action was being taken against those who had acquired fake licences as well as those who assisted them.
He continued that the issue was blown out of proportion when former Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan had claimed on the floor of the National Assembly that 40 per cent of the PIA pilots had dubious licences, The Express Tribune reported.
The Ministry also urged all Emirati citizens traveling abroad not to carry large sums of money in public areas and only carry copies of their IDs and passports….reports Asian Lite News
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) highlighted the importance of prior planning before travelling to perform Umrah during the Holy Month of Ramadan, calling on UAE citizens to register on the “Nusuk” application to apply for Umrah permissions and view travel instructions.
The service enables the Ministry and its missions abroad to communicate with them in cases of emergency and crises while they are travelling abroad to provide assistance.
The Ministry has a 24-hour emergency hotline, 0097180024, for UAE citizens abroad, who can call in case of emergency, if in need of an e-return document in case of the theft, damage, or expiry of their UAE passports, or if a baby is born abroad and the family must return to the country.
The Ministry also urged all Emirati citizens traveling abroad not to carry large sums of money in public areas and only carry copies of their IDs and passports.
Emirates customers heading to the U.S., can now look forward to access to more than 150 U.S. cities in the United network, via the three gateways….reports Asian Lite News
Emirates and United have activated their codeshare partnership, allowing Emirates customers to enjoy easier access to an expanded choice of U.S. destinations.
Starting today, Emirates customers will be able to fly to three of the nation’s biggest business hubs – Chicago, Houston or San Francisco – and connect easily to an expansive network of domestic U.S. points on flights operated by United.
With the launch of the partnership, Emirates customers heading to the U.S., can now look forward to access to more than 150 U.S. cities in the United network, via the three gateways.
We’re delighted to announce the activation of our codeshare partnership with @United, enabling our customers to have access to and from more than 150 U.S. cities through Chicago, Houston and San Francisco, and enjoy other rewarding benefits. https://t.co/BQB16w1TwFpic.twitter.com/vEbOV9NgrO
Similarly, Emirates customers in the U.S. planning trips to Dubai and beyond have a myriad of choices and can utilise United’s services to easily connect to Emirates operated flights bound for Dubai, via Chicago, Houston or San Francisco.
The partnership unlocks a host of popular destinations accessible from Emirates gateways such as Atlanta, Austin, Denver, Minneapolis and Phoenix. Emirates passengers planning trips to destinations such as Detroit, can fly direct from Dubai to Chicago or Houston, and simply connect on a United flight to the final destination, while enjoying the hassle-free flight benefits. The reciprocal benefits extend to passengers flying out of the U.S. using Emirates services to fly to Dubai, with the same easy access from a vast network of domestic cities and connection at one of the three hubs.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer, commented, “We are extremely delighted to activate this historic partnership with United and significantly expand our footprint in the U.S. United’s vast network across the Americas will help us to offer more choice to our customer base from across the globe, and meet demand from across segments including the leisure, VFR, corporate travellers and students who can now connect seamlessly to and from a broader network of more than 150 domestic points.”
The H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act will reduce fraud, provide protections for American workers and visa holders, and require more transparency in the recruitment of foreign workers…reports Asian Lite News
A group of influential lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan legislation in the US Senate to comprehensively overhaul the H-1B and L-1 visa programmes and usher in more transparency in the recruitment of foreign workers.
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise.
Technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.
The L-1 is the other type of work visa the US issues to professionals looking to work in the country. Unlike the H-1B, where an individual is looking to join an American company, the L-1 visa is issued to those who are already employed by the company in another country, and who are merely relocating to an American office.
Two influential Senators — Dick Durbin and Chuck Grassley — have introduced this legislation in the Senate.
The co-sponsors include Senators Tommy Tuberville, Bernie Sanders, Sherrod Brown, and Richard Blumenthal.
The H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act will reduce fraud and abuse in the immigration system, provide protections for American workers and visa holders, and require more transparency in the recruitment of foreign workers, a media release said on Tuesday.
The legislation proposes to place new wage, recruitment and attestation requirements on employers looking to hire L-1 and H-1B workers, and employers seeking to hire H-1B employees to post those jobs on the Department of Labour (DOL) website, it said.
It also proposes to give DOL the authority to place a fee on labour condition applications and use it to hire an additional 200 DOL employees and make reforms to the H-1B programme by prioritising the H-1B visa issuance for workers with higher levels of education in STEM and amending the definition of a “specialty occupation” to require a bachelor’s degree or higher, according to the release.
The legislation seeks reforms to the L-1 nonimmigrant programme, including new time limits and evidentiary requirements for petitions from a “new office” and mandating cooperation from the Department of State in verifying foreign affiliates.
Low H-1B visa limit affecting employers: Study.
“For years, outsourcing companies have used legal loopholes to displace qualified American workers and replace them with foreign workers who are paid sub-par wages and put under exploitative working conditions,” Democratic Party Senator Durbin said.
“These actions hurt all workers and make our country less attractive to the world’s top talent. Our legislation would fix these broken programs, protect workers, and put an end to these abuses,” he explained.
The H-1B and L-1 visa programmes were established to fill in gaps in America’s high-skilled workforce, not supplant it, Grassley, a Republican lawmaker said.
“Unfortunately, some companies have exploited these programmes to replace American workers with cheaper labour, which ultimately harms American workers and foreign labour alike. Our bill puts American workers first and ensures that the programmes promote fairness for all workers,” he said.
Durbin and Grassley, long-time advocates for H-1B and L-1 visa reform, first introduced the legislation in 2007.
Authors of this legislation said the H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act would stop these abuses by closing loopholes in these programmes.
The legislation will also crackdown on companies that hire large numbers of H-1B and L-1 workers to displace American workers and facilitate the outsourcing of American jobs, the media release added.
Thousands of highly skilled foreign-born workers, including Indians, in the US, have lost their jobs due to the series of recent layoffs at companies like Google, Microsoft and Amazon.
According to The Washington Post, nearly 200,000 IT workers have been laid off since November last year.
Industry insiders say that between 30 to 40 per cent of them are Indian IT professionals, a significant number of whom are on H-1B and L1 visas.
Cap reached for additional H-2B Visas for first half of FY 2023.
Meanwhile, the government has received a sufficient number of applications needed to reach the Congressionally mandated 65,000 H1-B visa cap for the fiscal year 2024.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said on Monday that it has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach FY 2024 H-1B numerical allocations, including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap).
“We have randomly selected from the registrations properly submitted to reach the cap, and have notified all prospective petitioners with selected registrations that they are eligible to file an H-1B cap-subject petition for the beneficiary named in the applicable selected registration,” the USCIS said.
H-1B cap-subject petitions for FY 2024, including those petitions eligible for the advanced degree exemption, may be filed with USCIS beginning April 1, 2023, if based on a valid, selected registration.
Only petitioners with selected registrations may file H-1B cap-subject petitions for FY 2024, and only for the beneficiary named in the applicable selected registration notice.
The H-1B is a non-immigrant visa that permits US companies to hire foreign workers in speciality occupations, which require theoretical or technical expertise.
It is the most sought-after work visa among foreign professionals, including Indians.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Scindia emphasised that the Central government was no longer a regulator but a facilitator and partner to the industry…reports Asian Lite News
Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said on Tuesday that India will become the largest civil aviation market in the next decade.
He made the remark while addressing the CII’s International conference on Advanced and Short-Haul Air Mobility for All (ASHA): Technologies for Ease of Transport.
Scindia said that India has crossed the pre-Covid number of air travellers by 10 per cent to reach 455,000 passengers daily, with airlines now operating at 80-90 per cent load factor.
“The penetration level in a population of 1.3 billion is, however, still 3-5 per cent. We need more aircraft and more quickly because India has an insatiable desire to travel,” he said.
While stating that the was proving itself to be a manufacturing hub in the aerospace sector, Scindia invited global companies to be part of India journey.
The Union Minister said technology has jumped forward and has become an important protagonist in the future of mankind.
“In that period of change and dynamic flux, the civil aviation sector is making unimaginable strides as never before.”
India to become largest civil aviation market in next decade: Jyotiraditya Scindia.
Speaking about opportunities in the advanced air mobility sector, the Minister said the drone market will become a Rs 3 lakh crore market by 2030 employing 3-4 lakh persons.
He underscored the need to have a good eco system and said advanced air mobility must have its basis in strong civil aviation infrastructure.
For the Infrastructure to be built, he said urban city planners were needed to be involved. “Along with vertiports, we need to have charging points.”
Scindia emphasised that the Central government was no longer a regulator but a facilitator and partner to the industry.
Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India and chairman, CII National Committee, said that advanced air mobility can do to India’s transport what telephony did to its communications.
“In telecom India skipped stages where the rest of the world was stuck. We have seen India leapfrog from landline to mobile to 4G to 5G roll-outs at lightning speed. India can do the same in transport if it chooses to embrace the AAM (Advanced Air Mobility) technologies and create the right ecosystem for it” said Gupte.
AAM comprises drones, helicopters, e-VTOL (electric, vertical take-off and landing systems) and other air-systems used for ferrying people and goods over short distances.
“The take-off of AAM will need a robust ecosystem that includes vehicles, training and education, research and development, landing structure, fleet-management, demand management, linkages with other mobility system,” said Kamal Bali, President and MD Volvo Group in India, and chairman, CII Southern Region.
For the industry, it will mean a huge new value chain, new economic clusters and many new jobs.
India to become largest civil aviation market in next decade: Jyotiraditya Scindia.
Meanwhile, Scindia on Sunday said that the government is working towards a target of taking the current number of 148 airports in the country to beyond 200 within the next three to four years.
“This effort will give equal importance to large metro airports as well as remote airports providing last mile connectivity,” he said, while flagging off the first IndiGo Airline Delhi-Dharamshala-Delhi flight.
Speaking on the occasion, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur thanked the Civil Aviation Ministry for facilitating IndiGo connectivity to Himachal Pradesh and said that IndiGo could not have become a truly national airline without flying to the Hill State.
Thakur made a case for a larger airport and said that currently passengers coming to Himachal from all over India have to go to Delhi and then board connecting flights to the state.
He further said that it is due to the UDAN scheme of the Civil Aviation Ministry that the people in ‘hawai chappal’ (slippers) can travel in ‘hawai jahaz’ (aeroplane).
USCIS said that it has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach FY 2024 H-1B numerical allocations…reports Asian Lite News
The US has received a sufficient number of applications needed to reach the Congressionally mandated 65,000 H1-B visa cap for the fiscal year 2024.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said on Monday that it has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach FY 2024 H-1B numerical allocations, including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap).
“We have randomly selected from the registrations properly submitted to reach the cap, and have notified all prospective petitioners with selected registrations that they are eligible to file an H-1B cap-subject petition for the beneficiary named in the applicable selected registration,” the USCIS said.
H-1B cap-subject petitions for FY 2024, including those petitions eligible for the advanced degree exemption, may be filed with USCIS beginning April 1, 2023, if based on a valid, selected registration.
Only petitioners with selected registrations may file H-1B cap-subject petitions for FY 2024, and only for the beneficiary named in the applicable selected registration notice.
The H-1B is a non-immigrant visa that permits US companies to hire foreign workers in speciality occupations, which require theoretical or technical expertise.
It is the most sought-after work visa among foreign professionals, including Indians.
For the first time, the Mirbad market will be embedding international brands and adding to their programming entertainment. The Ramadan Market will give visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture with a modern twist…reports Asian Lite News
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is inviting residents and visitors to experience Ramadan with a vibrant and unique calendar of authentic and inspiring activities across the emirate.
The start of Ramadan, that is expected to begin 23 March, will coincide with the term break from schools. Abu Dhabi is preparing to welcome and share Ramadan with visitors from around the world, inviting them to discover experiences at their own pace. Attractions, restaurants and retail outlets will remain open throughout the day, though once the sun sets, the spirit of Ramadan in Abu Dhabi comes alive.
From Iftar to Suhoor, festivals and pop-ups at the city’s hotels, restaurants and attractions, there are no shortage of options for spaces to gather and celebrate the holy month with family and friends. With more announcements coming soon, we have selected a shortlist of dining, family and retail experience that will make this year’s Ramadan one to remember.
RETAIL RAMADAN POP-UPS
The First Fendi Majlis in the Region: FENDI takes over Abu Dhabi’s tashas Al Bateen for the holy month to host their very own Ramadan Majlis. Surrounded by the iconic codes of the FENDI Maison, the Majlis welcomes the community to gather family and friends every evening for Suhoor. Starting from 26 March, and for the entire month this especially unique concept will surely be the most glamourous evening in the region. Make it a must to visit this one-off experience which includes a mouth-watering menu curated by tashas exclusively for Fendi.
Charlotte Tilbury Majlis: The First Charlotte Tilbury Majlis in the Region will welcome guests from 6 – 17 April with a specially curated and iconic Charlotte Tilbury Ramadan Cafe in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Taking over Society in Mamsha Saadiyat, this luxury F&B concept offers a memorable Ramadan experience with consumer-led exclusive masterclasses hosted by Regional and Global Make-up artists, gaming opportunities as well as product discoveries.
Ethr Take Over by Dyptique: From the chic streets of Paris, to paradise in Abu Dhabi, Dyptique, the pioneering parfumerie Maison, will bring to life a mesmerising, first of its kind cafe takeover at Ethr, a hidden gem in Abu Dhabi located in Mamsha Saadiyat. Offering visitors the chance to discover new and exciting fragrance collection Eau Nabati, and flavours that weave through the exotic and the magical surroundings. Friends of the brand, perfume connoisseurs and beauty enthusiasts will also be able to appreciate the Layali Ramadan Campaign event further thanks to a series of creative workshops that will be taking place over 14 days, to unveil the special Dyptique scent launch of Eau Nabati. The Ethr Take Over by Diptique runs from 5 – 22 April.
RITUALS Wellness Retreat: As a pre Ramadan event, the wellness brand RITUALS COSMETICS will be hosting a rejuvenating wellness getaway from 16 – 19 March at the magnificent Park Hyatt, in Abu Dhabi. This 4-day retreat will allow you to immerse yourself into the World of Rituals and indulge in sound meditation, manifestation workshops and fragrance zoning to get your mind, body and home ready for Ramadan. The Ramadan Market: In collaboration with the home-grown brand Mirbad, Retail Abudhabi will host the first Ramadan night retail market in the emirate from 24 – 27 March at Manarat Al Saadyat, where over 100 local and global vendors will showcase and host different brand experiences. For the first time, the Mirbad market will be embedding international brands and adding to their programming entertainment. The Ramadan Market will give visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture with a modern twist.
AUTHENTIC ARABIAN HOSPITALITY
The Majlis by the Sea at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental: The Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental presents The Majlis by the Sea, a Ramadan tent uniquely situated by the Arabian Gulf. With glittering views across the Abu Dhabi skyline, this Arabian-inspired contemporary tent offers luxury hospitality, serving world-class Arabic and Michelin-starred cuisine and live Arabic musical entertainment. The Iftar buffet, daily from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm, is priced at AED 325 per person, and Suhoor, from 10.00 pm to 2.00 am priced with a minimum spend of AED 175. Iftar and a Suhoor Under the Stars at Rosewood Abu Dhabi: Celebrate Iftar and Suhoor against a magnificent backdrop of the city or under the stars at the Rosewood Abu Dhabi. For Iftar, Aqua has curated an enchanting gastronomic offering with magical flavours, sure to enchant guests each evening from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm. Suhoor Under the Stars, from 10.00 pm to 3.00 am, shares a night to remember at Glo with its a la carte Suhoor menu being served al fresco on its beautiful terrace with views over the sparkling waters of Al Maryah Island. With additional Ramadan exclusive stay rates also available, the magical sunset Iftar is AED 275 during the first week of Ramadan and AED 295 per person after that. Suhoor Under the Stars is priced a la carte.
Ramadan at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island: This Ramadan offers plenty at the Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island with exceptional Suhoor and Iftar experiences offering authentic atmosphere and sumptuous food across its outlets. From the all-day dining venue, Turquoise, to a serene beachfront Suhoor at Mermaid and an Ottoman experience at Orient, families and friends can gather together to break their fast daily from 6.00 pm to 10.30 pm. Guests can avail of the Iftar Buffet at AED 299 per person and the Suhoor Buffet at AED 200 per person, both including Arabic juices, soft beverages, tea or coffee and water.
Ramadan Village at Shangri-La: This Ramadan, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri invites guests to join them in the spirit of togetherness among traditional Arabian hospitality at the Ramadan Village. Dining with panoramic views of the Khor Al Maqta creek, the Shangri-La Ramadan Village serves up a Suhoor to remember with immersive experiences, seasonal-inspired culinary stations, fresh juice bars, speciality coffee carts and authentic entertainment. Price packages start at AED 100 minimum spend per person for standard and lounge seating, AED 500 minimum spend for a Suhoor Majlis for up to 5 people and AED 1,500 minimum spend to reserve the Grand Majlis up to 15 people. Opening on the 22nd of March and ideal for groups and social gatherings, the month-long festivities at the Ramadan Village begins with the exclusive ‘Culinary Master Series’ with Michelin-awarded Chef Greg Malouf presenting a four-course menu for Suhoor during the first week of Ramadan. The four-course menu is priced at AED 275, with guests selecting two starters, one main and one dessert dish from the a la carte, sharing-style menu.
Ramadan at the Oasis Tent and Majlis Suhoor by the Beach At Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi: The Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi offers lots this Ramadan with its Oasis Tent and beachside Majlis. Guests can enjoy an Iftar at The Oasis with an Arabian Nights-themed Iftar under the stars with a generous selection of signature dishes in a one-of-a-kind setting in the lush gardens of the Park Hyatt. For Suhoor, relax under the Saadiyat night and escape the hustle and bustle whilst savouring an Arabic-style gourmet menu paired with refreshments and shisha and refreshments. Iftar at The Oasis, from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm, is priced at AED 320 per person and the Suhoor, from 10.00 pm to midnight, at AED 150 per person.
Ramadan at The Liwa Tent Four Seasons Hotel: As the sun sets over Al Maryah Island, the spirit of Ramadan shines at The Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi. Experience the essence of Ramadan at the Four Seasons Abu Dhabi Liwa Tent, with flavourful five-star Iftar and Suhoor menus that can be taken indoors or in the open air under the night sky. At AED 310 per person, the experience will tantalise your tastebuds and offer additional traditional entertainment with a wide selection of aromatic shisha and captivating live performances.
Ramadan at one of the city’s Michelin Stars: Abu Dhabi is a hotspot for cultural and culinary excellence. With an impressive line-up of Michelin Star recognised restaurants, why not spend the evening dining on a world-renowned Ramadan offering? With leading chefs curating Iftar menus for the holy month, guests can make reservations for a truly traditional touch at Tazal on Al Qana Walk or Layali Al Baraka at Jumeirah Hotel at Etihad Towers. For those looking for a more modern twist on international cuisines, the Galleria Al Maryah Island’s COYA offers up an immersive 360-degree Peruvian experience, whilst Mamsha Al Saadiyat’s homegrown Niri Restaurant serves up Japanese cuisine and spirit and the Punjab Grill at the Venetian Village at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal shares an authentic Indian six-course tasting menu from Chef Sandeep Ail.
LPM Abu Dhabi at the Galleria Al Maryah Island promises a succulent Ramadan transporting guests somewhere else, far away in time and place, and 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island invites guests to celebrate Iftar with a generous 13-dish Michelin-star menu. Ramadan at the Louvre Abu Dhabi: Whilst the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi remains closed on Mondays, throughout Ramadan, the museum has extended its hours from 10.00 am to midnight on Tuesdays to Sundays, allowing more time to soak up world-class arts and culture. Inside, the galleries close at 6:30 pm on weekdays (Tuesday to Thursday) and 8:30 pm on weekends (Friday to Sunday). After sunset, the Louvre Abu Dhabi offers individual and private group dining options. Aptitude Cafe serves up specialised evenings throughout the week, with an authentic three-course set Iftar menu, at AED 165 per person, of middle eastern and international cuisines from 6.00 pm to 00.30 pm on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. On Thursdays and Fridays, from 6.00 pm to 11.00 pm, the cafe hosts an a la carte celebration of Mediterranean street food and regional souk cultures with Manoushe Night, and on Tuesdays, from the 28th of March onwards, from 6.00 pm to 11.00 pm, an a la carte, Ramadan-inspired pizzas menu.
Elsewhere at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi will host a traditional Iftar menu with French twists on firm favourites such as lentil soup with truffle foam and gougere and sharing-style mezze plates of roasted cauliflower bavaroise, eggplant confit, pine nut burrata and cucumber salad and Cecina de Leon Snails Provencal. The menu is available all day, daily, for AED 390 per person. Offering privacy, larger groups can book the three-course Iftar menu at the Museum Cafe for AED 245 per person or, for corporate groups, the Art Lounge offers both an Iftar and Suhoor menu, with flexibility on timings based on client requirements. The Iftar menu is priced at AED 245 per person and offers full privatisation, whilst the Suhoor menu is priced at AED 195 per person, with full privatisation at an additional fee.
AWE-INSPIRING ACTIVATIONS
Underwater Iftar by Shangri-La at the National Aquarium: The National Aquarium, in partnership with Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, is hosting a one-of-a-kind ‘underwater’ Iftar evening with unparalleled access to the National Aquarium for groups between 30 to 50 guests. Taking place from the 10 -11 April, business partners, family or friends can come together in the spectacular setting and connect over an elevated Iftar offering from the culinary team at Shangri-La, showcasing flavours from across the region, including traditional Arabian-influenced dishes and tempting sweet delights. This exclusive experience requires booking at least 48 hours in advance and is priced at AED 600 per person.
SALT Camp at Louvre Abu Dhabi: UAE homegrown favourite SALT will pitch its ‘tent’ this Ramadan with the Salt Camp pop-up at Louvre Abu Dhabi. From 1 March to 21 April, SALT Camp presents a space for friends and family to meet and enjoy the laidback menu favourites against a backdrop of SALT-inspired activities and activations.
Iftar with the Lions and Giraffes at Al Ain Zoo: From 23 March to 21 April, go wild this Ramadan with an Iftar with the lions and giraffes at Al Ain Zoo. Both Iftar settings promise an evening to remember, bringing guests and their loved ones next to exciting wildlife in the world’s largest man-made African Safari setting. Iftar with the Lions sees a breath-taking Iftar moment with the king of the jungle, whilst Iftar with the Giraffes sees visitors dining with Miss Zafarana the Giraffe and her family after the sunset, and even an up-close-and-personal feeding experience and photo opportunity.
Ramadan at the Warner Bros Hotel Abu Dhabi: From authentic Arabic dishes to the cosy Ramadan-themed ambience and even meet-and-greets with renowned WB characters, including Tom & Jerry, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Robin, Ramadan at the WB Abu Dhabi is sure to be a memorable experience for all the family. Taking place at Sidekicks restaurant from 6.00 pm to 10.00 pm each evening, the Iftar will combine authentic traditions with modern flair, with an array of authentic and lavish Levantine cuisine.
Ramadan at the Oasis: The Al Ain Oasis will host its ever-popular Ramadan Nights at the Oasis from 10.00 pm to 1.00 am each evening from 1 – 15 April, hosting a series of cultural activities, entertainment and live TV broadcast.
Ramadan Arcade: Taking place at Manarat Al Saadiyat from 6 – 16 April from 9.00 pm to 2.00 am, Ramadan Arcade returns this Ramadan to embrace cultural traditions in a contemporary setting with a fantastic round-up of cultural activities, a variety of entertainment and music, art, games, workshops and more, making it the ultimate hang out spot in Ramadan!
Pixoul Ramadan Nights: Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday throughout Ramadan, Pixoul Gaming, located in Al Qana, hosts a rare Suhoor experience with activities designed to bring families and friends together. From 10.00 pm to 3.00 am, the immersive gaming Suhoor experience allows guests to meet with the local gaming community, play vintage Arcade games, save Planet Pixoul with a VR experience, and show off skills at the Esports Hub, all whilst enjoying refreshments from the E-Sports Bar.
A Reflection on Cultural Heritage at Louvre Abu Dhabi: From 15 February to 15 May, 6.30 pm to midnight daily, the Concrete Beach of the Louvre Abu Dhabi is set to stun with mesmerising projections seen from the Promenade. Iconic images of Emirati heritage will come alive on the seafront surfaces with projections of cultural activities and traditions from maritime moments and desert travellers, urban and rural landscapes and architecture and portraits of the people and lifestyle of the city.
SPORTING SPECIALS
Science & Soulful at Jubail Mangrove Park: This Ramadan, stay active and reconnect with nature at Jubail Mangrove Park. In addition to scenic boardwalk experiences through native wildlife to clear your mind and detoxify your body, the environmentally-protected park is hosting various water activities, yoga sessions and creative art classes. On the water, single or double kayaking guided experiences through mangroves, seeing stunning sunrises and sunsets whilst discovering native wildlife, or navigating the night with the newly-launched Night Glow experience in specially fitted, LED-lit kayaks. Promoting spiritual reflection, Jubail Mangrove Park has curated a schedule of ladies-only yoga practices every Monday from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm, including a Detox Flow with Sound Healing Journey, Yin with Roll & Release, Detox Pilates to Reset and Breath and Meditation.
Ramadan at the Circuit: Yas Marina Circuit is hosting an array of adrenaline-packed activities, from driving packages to thrilling Ramadan Karting Cup and Yas Super Street Challenge, the ADNOC TrainYAS Ramadan Challenge presented by ADSC encouraging guests to stay active over Ramadan and be in for a chance of winning some fantastic prizes.
Hudayriyat Mar Vista: With something for all ages, tastes and interests, be sure to visit Hudayriyat Island this Ramadan. The one-stop island destination boasts everything you will need for a great day or night out, with ample indoor and outdoor attractions such as cycling and biking tracks and trails, obstacle parks and pristine beaches, restaurants and food trucks and the cultural Hudayriyat Heritage Trail.
Wellness Iftar at Pura Eco Resort: Disconnect from the world around you and be engulfed by nature with Pura Eco Resorts’ unique Wellness iftar. Over two weekends with limited spaces available, the extensive Ramadan programme will include a series of yoga and meditation classes before coming together to break fast with a delicious and healthy iftar designed by Emirati Chef Faisal Al Harmoodi. Hosted on 31 March and 1, 7 and 8 April, the sessions promise guests moments of reflection and connection with their inner selves set in the stunning surroundings of Pura Eco Resort.
Kicking off the Eid celebrations, Abu Dhabi’s citizens, residents and visitors will be dazzled by fireworks lighting up the skies across the city from 9.00 pm with shows along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, at Al Ain’s Hazza Stadium and Madinat Zayed Public Park, Gayathi and Al Marfa’s AlMugheirah beach in the Al Dhafra region.
Music lovers can revel in the sounds of the most iconic stars from the Arab world with special concerts hosted at Etihad Arena on the second day of Eid. Concerts, with details and artists yet to be announced, will also occur on the same evening in Al Ain and Al Dhafra.
Throughout the Eid public holiday, activations will be hosted by iconic tourist and cultural attractions, including Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Manarat Al Saadiyat and Qasr Al Hosn. Al Ain’s Palace Museum will see special Al Ayyala and Al Razfa performances, with Al Ain Oasis and Qasr Al Muwaiji also hosting yet-to-be-announced celebrations across the four days.
