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$15M fund to support Indian startups in Saudi Arabia

India Accelerator (IA), India’s leading multi-stage, fund-led accelerator, is set to launch its accelerator program in Saudi Arabia, backed by a dedicated $15 million fund to support Indian startups entering and scaling in the Kingdom. The initiative is supported by the National Technology Development Program’s (NTDP) Empowering Accelerators product, advancing Saudi Arabia’s growing innovation mandate under Vision 2030.

The initiative will focus on startups across AI, Sustainability, Electric Mobility (EV), PropTech, and DeepTech- sectors closely aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 priorities and NTDP’s mission to accelerate technology-led economic transformation.

The first cohort, scheduled for launch in March 2026, will support 8–10 high-potential startups, providing them with structured market-entry support, regulatory guidance, access to local partnerships, and investor connectivity. Applications for the inaugural batch opened on December 8, 2025, and remained open until February 28, 2026.

Ashish Bhatia, Founder, India Accelerator, said: “Saudi Arabia is emerging as one of the world’s most forward-looking innovation markets. Through this partnership with NTDP, we aim to offer Indian startups a trusted, structured pathway to scale in the Kingdom. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to enabling cross-border expansion and building meaningful linkages with global innovation ecosystems.”

Ibrahim Neyaz, CEO of the National Technology Development Program (NTDP), added: “Saudi Arabia and India are home to two advanced startup ecosystems. Through our partnership with India Accelerator, we are opening new pathways that enable Indian entrepreneurs to collaborate with Saudi partners, tap into the Kingdom’s evolving technology and investment landscape, and contribute to the growth of its digital economy. This partnership strengthens the connection between our ecosystems and helps deepen long-term collaboration between the two countries in technology and investment.”

The partnership with NTDP establishes a strong foundation for deeper engagement across the GCC, expanding India Accelerator’s global footprint and advancing its mission to support founders beyond domestic markets.

The National Technology Development Program (NTDP) is a flagship initiative of Saudi Arabia, dedicated to accelerating the Kingdom’s digital economy and positioning it as a global hub for emerging technologies. NTDP drives growth by enabling startups and technology companies through strategic funding, international partnerships, policy integration, and talent development.

Through Products spanning venture financing, incubation and acceleration, R&D-industry collaborations, and global scaling programs, NTDP empowers local and international entrepreneurs to innovate and expand from Saudi Arabia to the world. Aligned with Vision 2030, NTDP is unlocking opportunities in deep tech including AI, robotics, semiconductors, health, and sustainability; while catalyzing job creation, investment, and GDP growth.

India Accelerator (IA), the country’s preeminent seed-stage startup accelerator, and the recipient of the “Best Accelerator of the Country” award from Start-up India in 2022. Our commitment to fostering innovation and supporting upcoming founders has consistently positioned us at the forefront of the Indian start-up ecosystem. Along with the Accelerator, we are also very active in early-stage investments through its Joint Venture ‘Finvolve’ and its 3 AIFs & a Gift City Fund. IA is not just about funding; it is a holistic ecosystem enhancer that provides startups with the necessary tools, mentorship, and network to thrive in the competitive landscape.

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Industry preps new 'cheap' HBM4 memory spec with narrow interface, but it isn't a GDDR killer — JEDEC's new SPHBM4 spec weds HBM4 performance and lower costs to enable higher capacity

JEDEC is nearing completion of SPHBM4, a standard that enables full HBM4 bandwidth over a 512-bit interface using a 4:1 serialization, reusing standard HBM DRAM dies and a base die. The tech promises to enable a 2.5D integration on organic substrates to support up to 64 GB per stack and more stacks than HBM4 and HBM4E.

Germany And France Joins Finland, Italy, Malta, Denmark, Croatia, Hungary, And More As Belarus Extends Visa-Free Travel For Thirty-Eight European Nations: Latest Travel Update You Should Know

Germany And France Joins Finland, Italy, Malta, Denmark, Croatia, Hungary, And More As Belarus Extends Visa-Free Travel For Thirty-Eight European Nations: Latest Travel Update You Should Know
Germany And France Joins Finland, Italy, Malta, Denmark, Croatia, Hungary, And More,
Belarus Extends Visa-Free Travel,

Belarus has extended its visa-free travel program for 38 European countries, including Germany, France, Finland, Italy, and Malta, through 2026, to enhance tourism and strengthen ties with its European neighbors. This move simplifies travel for millions of Europeans, encouraging more visits to the country while fostering greater international cooperation. With this extension, Belarus is not only boosting its tourism sector but also aligning with broader efforts to make the country more accessible and open to international visitors, marking a significant step in its goal to increase global tourism.

In an exciting development for international travelers, Belarus has decided to extend its visa-free travel program for citizens of 38 European countries through 2026. Initially launched in July 2024, the program allowed citizens of select European nations to travel freely to Belarus without the need for a visa. This extension not only makes travel easier for Europeans but also aligns with Belarus’s growing efforts to enhance its appeal as a tourist destination.

Extended Visa-Free Travel: A Welcome Change for European Travelers

The Belarusian government’s decision to extend the visa-free travel program reflects the country’s desire to attract more international visitors and boost its tourism sector. This move also showcases Belarus’s commitment to strengthening its relations with Europe. The new extension, set to run through December 31, 2026, provides travelers with ample time to explore Belarus without the administrative burden of visa applications.

Who Can Benefit from the Visa-Free Program?

The extended visa-free program applies to the citizens of 38 European countries. Those eligible can travel to Belarus for tourism, business, or transit without needing a visa, as long as they possess a valid passport. The initiative is expected to simplify travel for millions of Europeans and encourage more tourism and cultural exchanges between Belarus and its European neighbors.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of the program:

  • Eligible Countries: Citizens of 38 European countries can enter Belarus visa-free.
  • Duration of Stay: Most travelers are permitted to stay up to 30 days per visit. However, citizens from Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia (including non-citizens) can stay for up to 90 days.
  • Transit: Travelers can transit through Belarus to other destinations, as long as they are not heading to Russia.
  • Multiple Entries: The program allows unlimited entries, provided that the total stay does not exceed 90 days per calendar year.
  • Exclusions: Diplomatic or service passport holders are excluded, with exceptions for biometric diplomatic passport holders from the EU.

Boosting Belarus’s Tourism and International Appeal

The visa-free program has already proven to be a success. Since its initial launch, more than 1.2 million Europeans have visited Belarus under this scheme. Most visitors have come from neighboring countries, but the program has also attracted travelers from a diverse array of European nations.

Here’s a look at the top countries contributing to the flow of visitors to Belarus in 2024:

CountryNumber of Visitors
Latvia399,842
Lithuania658,575
Poland130,089
Other European Countries54,845

In 2025 alone, over 210,000 travelers from these 38 European countries have already visited Belarus, highlighting the program’s growing success. Belarusian authorities are hopeful that the extension will continue to draw large numbers of visitors, particularly from countries such as Germany, France, and Italy.

What’s New in 2025: Belarus’s E-Visa System

Alongside the extension of the visa-free program, Belarus has launched an e-visa system to further simplify travel for international visitors. Starting in March 2025, travelers from 67 countries worldwide can now apply for an e-visa to visit Belarus. The system has been particularly popular among travelers from the United States, Canada, Japan, and several European countries.

The Belarusian government is particularly enthusiastic about the e-visa program as it opens the country up to a broader international audience. As of mid-2025, around 1,500 e-visas have already been issued, demonstrating a solid interest in visiting Belarus beyond just European nations.

Key Countries for E-Visa Applications:

  • United States
  • Germany
  • Japan
  • Canada
  • Italy
  • France
  • Australia
  • United Kingdom
  • Spain

This dual approach—visa-free travel for certain European countries and e-visa access for others—reflects Belarus’s desire to streamline its visa processes and position itself as a more accessible destination for global tourists.

Full List of Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Travel to Belarus

The extension of the visa-free program now includes a comprehensive list of 38 European countries. Travelers from these nations can benefit from the convenience of not needing a visa to visit Belarus, with the conditions mentioned above. Here’s the complete list:

  • Andorra
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia (including stateless persons permanently residing there)
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Liechtenstein
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • North Macedonia
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • San Marino
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Switzerland
  • Sweden
  • United Kingdom
  • Vatican City

This comprehensive list showcases Belarus’s broad reach in attracting European travelers. By continuing to make travel easier for such a large group of countries, Belarus is positioning itself as a central destination for cultural exploration, business exchanges, and leisure tourism.

Visa-Free Travel Conditions and Exceptions

Most citizens of these 38 countries can stay in Belarus for up to 30 days without a visa. However, there are some specific exceptions:

  • Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia: Citizens from these countries (including those with Latvia’s non-citizen status) are allowed to stay up to 90 days.
  • No Limit on Entries: Travelers can enter and exit Belarus as many times as they want within the validity period, as long as their total time spent in the country does not exceed 90 days per calendar year.
  • Transit Policy: The visa-free travel also permits transit, provided the traveler is not heading to Russia.

Promoting Belarus as a Top Travel Destination

This move is part of a broader strategy by Belarus to open its doors to international travelers and showcase its rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming environment. From its medieval castles to the untouched natural beauty of its national parks, Belarus is becoming an increasingly popular destination for both short visits and longer stays.

In addition to attracting more visitors, the government is also focusing on improving tourism infrastructure and services. New hotels, transport links, and tourist facilities are being developed, and the tourism industry is set to benefit from the growing influx of European travelers.

The Future of Travel to Belarus

As the visa-free program continues to attract large numbers of visitors, Belarus is also working to enhance its reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. With the growing popularity of Belarusian culture, food, and historical sites, the country is becoming a more prominent feature on the European travel map.

The introduction of the e-visa system complements the visa-free program by offering more flexibility for travelers from countries outside the European Union. Whether it’s a short cultural trip, a business visit, or a longer stay, Belarus is making it easier than ever for people to experience its offerings.

The extension of Belarus’s visa-free program for 38 European countries through 2026 is a significant milestone for the country’s tourism industry. It simplifies travel for millions of European travelers, offering a smooth and hassle-free way to visit Belarus. With the addition of the e-visa system for global travelers, Belarus is opening its doors to the world and making travel more accessible than ever.

Belarus has extended its visa-free travel program for 38 European countries, including Germany, France, Finland, Italy, and Malta, through 2026 to boost tourism and strengthen diplomatic ties with Europe. This move simplifies travel for millions, enhancing accessibility and fostering greater international cooperation.

For those planning to visit Belarus, it’s important to note the stay durations, the countries eligible for the program, and the requirements for transit and multiple entries. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, this new development is an exciting opportunity to explore Belarus without the need for a traditional visa.

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Greece Expands Network of Pristine Mountain Zones Providing Adventure Seekers Eco Friendly and Nature Immersive Travel Opportunities

Greece Expands Network of Pristine Mountain Zones Providing Adventure Seekers Eco Friendly and Nature Immersive Travel Opportunities

Greece is widening its commitment to sustainable tourism with the expansion of its “Untrodden Mountains” program, creating a network of pristine, roadless mountain zones. These protected areas offer adventure seekers an unparalleled opportunity to explore untouched landscapes while engaging in eco-friendly activities such as hiking, wildlife observation, and nature photography. By preserving the natural environment and supporting local mountain communities, Greece is redefining how travelers can experience its majestic peaks while prioritizing conservation and responsible tourism.

The expansion, announced on International Mountain Day, introduces two new protected areas: Stroggoula in the Athamanika Mountains of Epirus and Mount Parnonas in the Peloponnese. These regions are renowned for their rugged beauty, diverse ecosystems, and minimal human footprint. Alongside these additions, protection measures for three more peaks—Smolikas, Tymfi, and Chatzis—have been reinforced, expanding a national network of roadless zones where infrastructure development such as roads and wind farms is prohibited.

Currently, eleven ministerial decisions govern these protected areas, creating zones that prioritize ecological preservation. By restricting development, Greece aims to safeguard biodiversity, prevent habitat fragmentation, and maintain the natural character of its mountain regions. These efforts provide visitors with the rare opportunity to experience landscapes largely untouched by modern infrastructure, offering a sense of discovery and immersion in nature.

The Untrodden Mountains program also responds to growing demand for eco-conscious travel. Activities such as hiking, climbing, wildlife observation, and photography allow travelers to enjoy outdoor adventures without harming the environment. By promoting low-impact tourism, the program ensures that visitors can explore Greece’s mountain beauty while leaving a minimal ecological footprint.

Beyond environmental preservation, the program contributes to the economic vitality of mountain communities. Remote and often underdeveloped, these regions benefit from sustainable tourism through income generated in guiding, hospitality, and local services. By connecting environmental protection with economic opportunity, the program helps maintain local traditions, supports livelihoods, and strengthens community identity.

The expansion of these protected zones positions Greece as a destination for alternative tourism experiences. Unlike conventional tourist hotspots, roadless mountain areas offer tranquility, adventure, and opportunities for intimate encounters with nature. Visitors can traverse unspoiled forests, witness native wildlife, and capture scenic vistas while engaging in travel practices that prioritize sustainability. This approach aligns with global trends toward responsible tourism, where conservation and visitor experience go hand in hand.

With the latest designations, Greece’s network of protected mountain zones now provides an extensive system of untouched natural areas, reinforcing the country’s image as a leader in sustainable travel. By combining conservation policies with opportunities for eco-tourism, the program creates a model where environmental stewardship and local development work together. Travelers gain meaningful experiences while the mountains themselves remain vibrant and resilient for future generations.

Programs like Untrodden Mountains highlight how tourism can serve as a tool for preservation rather than exploitation. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the landscapes responsibly, connecting with the natural environment in a way that supports its longevity. The initiative demonstrates that sustainable tourism is not only feasible but also enriching, offering memorable adventures without compromising ecological integrity.

In summary, Greece’s expansion of the Untrodden Mountains program underscores a long-term vision for its mountain regions, where nature and tourism coexist harmoniously. By protecting roadless zones, promoting low-impact activities, and empowering local communities, the initiative preserves biodiversity, maintains cultural identity, and provides exceptional experiences for travelers. Greece’s mountains now stand as a model for eco-friendly tourism, offering both adventure and conservation in equal measure.

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Indulge in Luxury this Christmas at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul with Exclusive Holiday Offerings

Indulge in Luxury this Christmas at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul with Exclusive Holiday Offerings

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul has unveiled its festive holiday decorations, turning its lobby into a contemporary winter scene that blends modern design with the warmth of the holiday spirit. Featuring sculptural trees and rich red, gold, and green tones, the hotel’s seasonal transformation brings a vibrant and elegant atmosphere to the property, offering a perfect setting for travelers visiting Seoul during the holidays.

This year’s holiday display at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul highlights the property’s commitment to contemporary design while embracing the festive cheer. Alongside the stunning decor, the hotel is offering its annual Confections by Four Seasons program, providing guests with a variety of gourmet take-home treats through January 5, 2026. This combination of holiday aesthetics and culinary indulgence makes the hotel a prime destination for visitors seeking a festive experience in the heart of Seoul.

A Contemporary Winter Wonderland at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

The lobby of Four Seasons Hotel Seoul has been transformed into a stunning winter scene, blending contemporary elegance with traditional holiday elements. Sculptural trees, modern holiday ornaments, and lush floral arrangements in festive colors create a vibrant yet sophisticated atmosphere, reflecting the hotel’s chic and stylish ambiance.

The winter decorations echo the property’s modern design, with sleek lines and minimalist touches that still evoke the warmth and charm of the holiday season. The use of bold red, gold, and green tones throughout the lobby adds a festive pop, while the sleek sculptures and light installations bring a contemporary edge to the traditional winter décor.

Guests entering the hotel are welcomed by a striking holiday display that sets the tone for the exceptional service and luxury that Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is known for. The decorations not only provide a picturesque backdrop for holiday photos but also contribute to the overall atmosphere of warmth and celebration, making the hotel a perfect holiday retreat for both locals and international travelers.

Confections by Four Seasons: Holiday Indulgence

For food lovers and those looking to bring home a taste of the holiday season, the Confections by Four Seasons program offers an exquisite selection of gourmet treats. Available until January 5, 2026, the menu includes a range of indulgent options, such as take-home roasts and cakes, designed to elevate holiday celebrations.

The roasts, including rib-eye and porchetta, are priced between 450,000 and 550,000 won, offering guests the chance to enjoy a luxurious, festive meal at home. These premium cuts are perfect for holiday feasts, providing a flavorful and high-quality addition to any family gathering or holiday party.

For those with a sweet tooth, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul offers a variety of cakes and confections, each beautifully crafted with seasonal flavors and artistic presentation. The Crystal Vanilla Cake (129,000 won) features rich vanilla flavors and is a perfect option for those seeking a classic holiday treat. The Mont Blanc Cake (99,000 won) offers a delicious combination of chestnut flavors and decadent cream, ideal for those looking for something a bit more festive. The Panettone (49,000 won), a traditional Italian Christmas cake, adds a touch of European holiday flair to the menu.

For the ultimate luxury experience, the Diamond Four Seasons Leaf cake (300,000 won) is a showstopper. This decadent creation is designed to be a centerpiece for holiday celebrations, with a combination of refined ingredients and intricate design that embodies the Four Seasons’ commitment to excellence and culinary artistry.

The program also offers a range of chocolates and seasonal treats, making it a popular choice for those looking to indulge or bring a gift home to loved ones. Guests can pre-order these treats or purchase them directly from the hotel’s lobby, allowing visitors to enjoy a taste of Four Seasons’ holiday magic even after they leave.

A Perfect Holiday Destination in Seoul

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul’s holiday offerings go beyond just festive decorations and indulgent treats. Located in the heart of Seoul, the hotel is an ideal base for tourists visiting the city during the holiday season. The property is situated near major attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks, making it convenient for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city.

Seoul is known for its festive atmosphere during the holidays, with Christmas lights illuminating the streets, winter markets offering seasonal goods, and cultural events happening throughout the city. The hotel’s central location makes it easy for guests to visit these festive spots, whether they want to explore Seoul’s historic palaces, take in the views from Namsan Tower, or enjoy a winter stroll through nearby parks.

For those looking for a luxurious winter getaway, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul offers a range of world-class amenities, including a full-service spa, elegant dining options, and exceptional service that caters to every need. Whether you’re in the city for a holiday vacation or a business trip, the hotel provides an exceptional retreat where you can relax and recharge after a day of exploring.

Looking Ahead: More Seasonal Experiences

As the holiday season continues, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is likely to offer even more experiences for guests. The hotel’s dedication to creating memorable, festive moments for visitors ensures that the property will remain a top destination for luxury travelers in Seoul.

The success of its Confections by Four Seasons program and the captivating holiday décor in the lobby show the hotel’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences during the most magical time of the year. Visitors to Seoul can continue to enjoy the festive ambiance of Four Seasons Hotel Seoul long after the holidays are over.

Conclusion: A Luxurious Holiday Experience in the Heart of Seoul

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul’s contemporary winter decorations, along with its Confections by Four Seasons holiday program, offer travelers a unique and luxurious experience during the festive season. Whether you’re enjoying a gourmet holiday roast, indulging in a sweet seasonal treat, or simply taking in the stunning winter scene in the hotel lobby, the property offers something for every type of traveler.

As one of Seoul’s premier luxury hotels, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul remains a top choice for those seeking elegance, warmth, and exceptional service during the holiday season. The combination of stylish design, festive offerings, and world-class amenities makes it a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of Christmas in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.

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6sense HQ empowers startups with free MVP prototype

6sense HQ, a software development partner specializing in rapid, AI-powered product development for early-stage founders, announced the launch of its WeekendMVP program, which delivers an MVP-level interactive prototype in just three days.

As part of the company’s Startup Velocity Initiative, WeekendMVP will be offered free of charge to the first 100 qualified applicants. Participants will receive an interactive “Minimum Viable Product” level prototype (MVP) they can immediately demo to customers and investors —in just three days. The firm anticipates that many of these founders will use their MVP-level prototypes to raise funding for the full development process.

“WeekendMVP will showcase how AI enables us to fast-track the costly, lengthy early-product process, which holds founders back from putting their ventures on a course to success,” explained Nasif Sid, Cofounder & CEO of 6sense HQ. “You could say we’re in the chicken and egg business. For so many talented entrepreneurs, the lack of an MVP-level interactive prototype is a critical gating factor that blocks their paths to funding and clients. However, they need funding to build a product, so they get stuck. Chicken vs. egg. Which comes first? With our new capabilities, we can unblock them.”

WeekendMVP provides more than just a design mockup. Founders receive a live, hosted, interactive product. Users will be able to log in, click through core features, interact with screens and flows, and see how the product behaves with realistic data. Investors and early prospects will be able to understand the value and experience the product as if it were live. “This is a true proof-of-concept build,” Sid added.

WeekendMVP creates MVP-level prototypes using AI-enhanced tools like Cursor, GitHub Copilot, Figma Make, and automated scaffolding frameworks working in combination with 6sense HQ’s cross-functional engineering team. “You no longer need to spend $30k to $80k or wait months to build an early product,” said Sid. “Instead, in three days, you get a prototype that enables you to validate or reject assumptions quickly, communicate vision to co-founders, advisors, and early hires. In other words, decide what to build before you start spending real money.”

The company shared a success story that highlights the potential of the program. Sami, a non-technical founder based in California, was able to secure a $50,000  investment from his own network just by showcasing an MVP-level prototype developed by 6sense HQ’s AI-driven process. Sami is using this investment to fund the development of his venture.

 

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