Digital Payments Awareness Week: Visa’s Top Tips To Step Up Your Digital Payments Game

Today, #IndiaPaysDigitally, whether in-store, online, or on the go. This Digital Payments Awareness Week and beyond, use these tips from Visa to make smarter, safer digital payments: 

Save Cards on your Phone for Secure Contactless Payments: Banking & payment apps can now store card credentials so you can tap your phone and pay using cards.

Use Secure Payment Methods, Always: Choose safe and secure digital payment methods that minimise chances of fraud with extra layers of encryption, biometric authentication, and tokenisation for transactions.

Use your Contactless Card: With EMVCo® chip-based contactless cards (look for the Wi-Fi-like symbol  on your card) you can make quick, secure payments by tapping your card on a POS terminal, without the card even leaving your hand.

Control your Transactions through Banking Apps: Enable or disable contactless, e-commerce, ATM withdrawals and international card transactions conveniently on your banking apps. You can also set spending limits and restrict how and where your cards can be used.

Monitor Transactions with Real Time Alerts: Stay updated on each expense by enabling instant notifications and monitoring transactions in real-time through your banking and payment apps.

Maximise Benefits with Credit Card Payments: Leverage cashback offers, reward points, and exclusive discounts from your bank and payment providers. Also use EMI options and fee waivers smartly to maximise benefits on every transaction.

Enhance the way you pay digitally with these tips for a faster, safer, and more convenient experience.

About Visa

Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.

Embrace The Spirit Of Ramadan With Abu Dhabi’s Exciting Lineup Of Must-Do Experiences

* From alfresco dining to lively Ramadan markets, Abu Dhabi allows Indian travellers to drinking water in public places

This Ramadan, Abu Dhabi invites visitors to immerse themselves in a season of cultural richness, community spirit, and timeless traditions. From historic landmarks to vibrant gatherings, the emirate offers a unique blend of authentic heritage and enriching experiences, making it the perfect destination to embrace the Ramadan spirit.

To cater to Indian travellers, Abu Dhabi clarifies that Muslims will fast between sunrise and sunset. However, this does not apply to non-Muslims and tourists who are not observing the fast. Restaurants and cafés have been permitted to operate as usual in recent years, allowing those not fasting to dine normally throughout the day.

Abu Dhabi, as a rapidly emerging destination, has also ensured that Indian travellers have access to drinking water in public places, dispelling the misconception that fasting is mandatory for everyone during Ramadan. Travelers can refer to the authority's guidelines on Ramadan provisions at https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/public-holidays-and-religious-affairs/ramadan.

During the day, visitors can explore Abu Dhabi’s popular attractions, indulge in diverse cuisines, or unwind along pristine beaches. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with festive Ramadan markets, cultural performances, and unique iftar and suhoor experiences that offer a deeper connection to Emirati traditions.

Here are some must-visit experiences taking place in Abu Dhabi this Ramadan.

Cultural and Historical Experiences

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque & Light and Peace Museum

Experience the spirit of Ramadan by attending a communal iftar and admiring the mosque’s breathtaking architecture illuminated at night. The Light and Peace Museum at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre showcases artefacts and interactive exhibits that highlight Islamic civilisation’s contributions and the UAE’s values of tolerance and peace.

Qasr Al Hosn: Ramadan at Al Hosn (1–21 March)

The historic fort and Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building invites visitors to step back in time with storytelling sessions, cultural performances, and heritage experiences that bring Emirati traditions to life during Ramadan. Open majlis sessions, poetry nights, and live Oud performances add to the festive ambience.

Manarat Al Saadiyat: Ramadan Arcade (13–23 March)

A contemporary celebration of Ramadan that transforms traditional elements into interactive cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, cultural workshops, and art displays that encourage reflection and community gathering.

Al Jahili Fort: Traditional Games Championships (10–16 March)

A vibrant event where teenagers and youth compete in traditional Emirati games. Organised in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Police, this championship preserves heritage while promoting community bonding through cultural sports.

Dining and Culinary Experiences

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental: Majlis by the Sea

One of Abu Dhabi’s most grand Ramadan venues, this luxurious setting offers a Michelin-starred culinary experience featuring dishes from Talea by Antonio Guida, Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi, Hakkasan, and the newly launched Strawfire. Guests can enjoy a sushi station, Arabic delicacies, and international flavours with live instrumental music and stunning sea views.

Alba Terrace: Majlis Under the Stars

A picturesque outdoor setting perfect for suhoor, offering a tranquil atmosphere paired with late-night culinary delights.

New Season Restaurant: Layali Ramadan

An authentic dining experience celebrating the rich flavours and hospitality of Ramadan.

Al Raha Beach: Ramadan Night Market

Discover handcrafted goods, savour local street food, and enjoy the lively Ramadan atmosphere under the stars at this bustling night market.

Al Ain Oasis: Harees Ramadan (Fridays during Ramadan)

Visitors can witness the traditional preparation of Harees, a beloved Emirati dish, and explore an exhibition showcasing its history, tools, and cultural significance.

Immersive Community and Heritage Experiences

Heritage Village: Ramadan at Heritage Village (14–21 March)

An interactive cultural journey featuring food workshops, storytelling sessions, Arabic coffee making demonstrations, guided stargazing, and the Hag Al Laila Parade, celebrating the essence of Ramadan in Abu Dhabi.

Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa: Before Suhoor Nights (1–15 March)

Enjoy traditional floor seating, café experiences, and heritage games, as well as live Arabic music performances on weekends, in a serene pre-suhoor setting.

Abu Dhabi’s Ramadan celebrations provide visitors with a unique opportunity to embrace tradition, connect with the local community, and experience the true spirit of this special month. Whether exploring cultural landmarks, indulging in gourmet Ramadan delicacies, or participating in cherished traditions, every moment spent in Abu Dhabi during Ramadan is filled with warmth, discovery, and lasting memories.

Plan your trip now to enjoy Ramadan at ours and experience the warmth of Abu Dhabi. Visit visitabudhabi.ae for more details.

embedUR Systems Will Showcase Its Edge AI Solutions On Synaptics’ SR-Series At Embedded World 2025 In Germany

* Enabling Synaptics Customers with SDK Expertise, Embedded Software, and Edge AI Model Creation & Optimization

embedUR systems, a leader in embedded software, Edge AI solutions, and a trusted partner of Synaptics, has worked closely with Synaptics to support the launch and adoption of its new SR-Series high-performance adaptive MCUs for multimodal context-aware computing at the IoT Edge. The series extends Synaptics AstraTM AI-Native platform, and embedUR has contributed key software elements, SDK development, and AI model tuning to enable seamless Edge AI integration. As a trusted solution partner, embedUR helps Synaptics and their customers develop innovative, efficient Edge AI-powered applications on the SR-Series through its deep expertise in platform integration, Edge AI model creation and optimization, and bespoke embedded software development.

At Embedded World 2025, embedUR will showcase how its software engineering and Edge AI expertise accelerate product development on the SR-Series, helping customers optimize AI applications, enhance performance, and bring products to market faster.

Optimizing Edge AI for the SR-Series

Synaptics’ SR-Series is designed for ultra-low-power (ULP) and high-performance AI at the Edge, and embedUR’s software contributions play a crucial role in making it easier for developers to adopt and deploy AI solutions. Customers looking to leverage the MCUs can rely on embedUR for:

Embedded Software Expertise – Creating and optimizing software frameworks and SDKs to fully harness the SR-Series’ capabilities.

Edge AI Model Creation & Optimization – Designing and fine-tuning AI models to run efficiently on low-power embedded systems.

Bespoke Embedded Software Development – Creating custom solutions tailored to AI-driven applications in security, industrial automation, smart devices, and more.

From Concept to Deployment: Real-World AI Solutions

To demonstrate how their software expertise enables powerful AI applications on the SR-Series, embedUR will showcase Edge AI demos at Embedded World, including:

Image Segmentation – High-performance, low-power image segmentation displaying the SR-Series’ computer vision capabilities.

Medical Lockbox with Facial Recognition Security – A real-world application of AI-powered access control, demonstrating secure, intelligent storage solutions.

In addition to these demos, embedUR will feature three other Edge AI showcases at their booth at Embedded World 2025, with further demonstrations integrated into Synaptics' SR-Series at the event.

A Strong Partnership for the Future of Edge AI

“The Astra platform and the new SR-Series are a significant step forward in AI-Native processing at the edge, and embedUR is proud to provide embedded software expertise to help customers take full advantage of its capabilities,” said John Marconi, VP of Technology at embedUR systems. “Our deep experience in embedded systems and AI optimization makes us the ideal partner for companies building innovative solutions on Synaptics’ AI hardware.”

"The SR-Series comes with innovative features for Edge AI, including three tiers of operation, to deliver intelligence at every power level,” said John Weil, Vice President of IoT and Edge AI Processor Business at Synaptics. “Supported by the Astra platform’s ecosystem—and forward-thinking partners like embedUR—we look forward to seeing developers quickly unlock the new MCUs’ potential and accelerate context-aware Edge AI innovation.”

Visit embedUR at Embedded World 2025

Attendees can experience embedUR’s Edge AI solutions at Hall 4, #601, and at Synaptics’ Booth at Hall 4A, #259, where they will see firsthand how embedUR’s embedded software solutions help developers maximize the potential of the SR-Series and the Astra platform.

About embedUR systems

embedUR systems is a Silicon Valley-based leader in AI-driven Edge computing, IoT, and networking. With over two decades of expertise, embedUR partners with top semiconductor, telecom, and network equipment companies to bring scalable, low-power AI solutions to millions of devices worldwide. Learn more at www.embedur.ai.

About Synaptics

Synaptics (Nasdaq: SYNA) is a leader in AI at the Edge, delivering high-performance embedded AI, wireless connectivity, and multimodal sensing solutions for smart devices across home, work, automotive, and industrial applications. Learn more at www.synaptics.com.

Quest Global Acquires US-Based Alpha-Numero Technology Solutions

Quest Global is pleased to announce the acquisition of Alpha-Numero Technology Solutions. Alpha-Numero is a US-based VLSI design company with expertise in FPGA. Headquartered in Irvine, CA, Alpha-Numero employs over 150+ talented engineers globally from their centers where research and development are conducted in India at Ahmedabad and Hyderabad, and in New York at Endicott.

Alpha-Numero is a well-known and highly respected leader in avionic design and verification solutions, with long-standing relationships in the Aerospace, Hi-Tech, and Automotive industries. This investment in Alpha-Numero demonstrates Quest Global’s commitment to strengthening its Semiconductor offerings and expanding its Mission and Safety-Critical solutions for its clients.

“We are excited to welcome Alpha-Numero to the Quest Global family,” said Chris Schwartzbauer, President & CEO of Quest Defense. “With Alpha-Numero's capabilities in FPGA and Quest Global’s deep domain expertise, we will provide innovative engineering solutions that will give our clients a competitive advantage.”

Alpha-Numero will continue to be led by the management team of the Co-Founders: Sukanta Mitra, Santhi Ayyadevar and Hari Patel.  “As a management team we are excited to join the Quest Global family. Quest Global’s focus on helping clients solve their hardest engineering problems is a perfect fit with Alpha-Numero. We pride ourselves on our longstanding leadership in avionic design and mission and safety-critical solutions. Together, our companies are not only addressing today's industry needs, but we’re also innovating through the requirements for the future of aviation. “ 

Alpha-Numero is well-versed in Safety-Critical Avionics Systems and has special expertise in managing Complex Electronics Hardware (CEH) from Design assurance level A (DAL-A) to DAL-E. Alpha-Numero also works in Design and Verification & Validation (V&V) of avionics hardware and software in compliance with DO-254, DO-178B/C standards.  All the required documentation for FAA/EASA audits at any stage from SOI1 to SOI4 is supported by them. Alpha-Numero's expertise extends to the design and verification of FPGA/ASIC/SoCs used in automation (using ISO26262 standards) and consumer electronics.

About Quest Global

At Quest Global, it's not just what we do but how and why we do it that makes us different. We're in the business of engineering, but what we are really creating is a brighter future. For over 25 years, we've been solving the world's most complex engineering problems. Operating in over 20 countries, with over 85 global delivery centers, our 20,000+ curious minds embrace the power of doing things differently to make the impossible possible. Using a multi-dimensional approach, combining technology, industry expertise, and diverse talents, we tackle critical challenges faster and more effectively. And we do it across the Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Energy, Hi-Tech, MedTech & Healthcare, Rail and Semiconductor industries. For world-class end-to-end engineering solutions, we are your trusted partner.?

About Alpha-Numero Technology Solutions

At Alpha-Numero, we go beyond industry requirements to overcome our clients’ business challenges. As a VLSI design company with expertise in FPGA, we offer leading-edge services in avionic design and verification solutions for safety and mission-critical applications. Our long-standing relationships with key clients in the Aerospace, Hi-Tech, and Automotive industries highlight our belief that safe, secure engineering practices are the foundation for the future of technology. As a Quest Global company, we leverage a global team of over 20,000 highly skilled engineers, who strive to be the most trusted partner for solving the world’s hardest engineering problems. As of March 1, 2025, Alpha-Numero is proudly a Quest Global company.

Uber Ties Up With Refex Green Mobility To Deploy 1,000 Electric Vehicles By 2026

Uber has announced a strategic partnership with Refex Green Mobility to deploy 1,000 electric vehicles (EVs) across key cities in India by 2026, furthering its efforts to boost electric vehicles on its platform.

This collaboration aligns with Uber’s global objective of providing 100% emission-free rides by 2040 and reinforces the ride-hailing platform’s ongoing efforts to promote clean energy solutions. The new fleet of 1,000 EVs will be available on Uber to cater to the growing preference for sustainable mobility choices in cities.

Refex Green Mobility Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Chennai-headquartered Refex Industries Limited and it operates under the brand Refex eVeelz. The deployment will see electric four-wheelers onboarded onto the Uber platform across Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, marking a significant milestone in Uber’s efforts to electrify urban mobility.

Commenting on the partnership, Aditya Kapoor, Head, Supply and Electrification, Uber India and South Asia, said, “Uber is committed to accelerating the shift to zero-emission mobility in India, and this partnership with Refex eVeelz is a significant step in that direction. It strengthens our efforts to electrify urban transportation, bringing more electric ride options to riders across many new cities in India. We remain focused on removing barriers to EV adoption and driving the transition to a greener future through partnerships that will build a sustainable future for all.”

Sachin Navtosh Jha, Chief of Staff, Refex Group, said, "As a company committed to driving the transition towards sustainable mobility, we are proud to partner with Uber to deliver electric solutions to more cities in India. This collaboration, in addition to our currently existing B2B as well as B2C operations with nearly 1,300 company-owned 4-wheeler EVs will help us contribute to reducing urban carbon emissions and will also play a key role in achieving India’s broader sustainability goals."

As part of its broader electrification push, Uber rolled out Uber Green across Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Kolkata. Uber Green allows passengers to request an all-electric, zero tail-pipe emissions vehicle, providing an on-demand EV experience with a few taps on the app. Uber Green is already the most widely available on-demand mobility solution for no or low-emission rides globally, available in over 100 cities across 15 countries.

With this partnership, Uber and Refex eVeelz are making significant strides in expanding the availability of electric mobility options in India, paving the way for a greener and electric urban transportation ecosystem.

About Uber

Uber came to India in 2013 with a simple promise: press a button, get a ride. 10 years and over 3 billion trips later, we continue to build products to help people get where they need to be. Today, Uber is available across 125 cities in India and has become #IndiaKiRide where people can go where they have to on Moto, Auto, Cars and even Buses - designed for their various intracity and intercity travel needs. With just a swipe on the app we make mobility seamless for millions and support over 1 million Indians make a sustainable income by getting in the driver's seat. We continue to reimagine the way the world moves for the better in ever-expanding ways and as we mark our ten-year milestone - we remain committed to keep India Moving Forward.

About Refex Green Mobility Limited

Refex Group is one of India’s leading business organizations that started as a refrigerant gas refilling and bottling company in 2002, and has now been operating for over two decades expanding into several business verticals such as logistics (ash and coal handling, green mobility), renewables (solar, wind energy, and compressed biogas), healthcare (medical technologies pertaining to imaging devices' manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals), airports retail, among other such business verticals.

At present, there are 2 listed entities under the group - Refex Industries Limited (RIL) and Refex Renewables Infrastructure Limited (RRIL). It has been a 22-year journey of learning, serving stakeholders, building resilience, and agility that Refex has traversed where it has aimed for excellence.

Lockton India Strengthens Local Expertise With New Bangalore Office, Reinforcing Its Commitment To South India

Arihant Insurance Broking Services Ltd, a Lockton Group Company (hereinafter to be refered as “Lockton India”)  and being part of Lockton , the world's largest independent insurance brokerage, and risk management firm, has announced the opening of its new office in Bangalore, further strengthening its presence in South India. This strategic expansion is aimed at enhancing Lockton  ability to provide cutting-edge risk advisory and insurance solutions to businesses across the region.

The Bangalore office will serve a diverse range of industries, including technology, fintech, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and manufacturing. It will provide specialized expertise in key areas such as Employee Benefits & People Solutions, Cyber Insurance & Liability Risk Management, Trade Credit & Business Continuity Insurance, and Corporate Risk Advisory & Insurance Consulting. With a strong focus on addressing industry-specific risks, the office aims to deliver comprehensive solutions tailored to the evolving needs of businesses in the region.

Commenting on the expansion, Dr. Sandeep Dadia, CEO & Country Head, Lockton India, said: “Bangalore, India's leading hub for technology and innovation, is home to some of the country’s largest IT firms, fintech companies, and global capability centers (GCCs). Expanding our presence in this dynamic city is a vital step in our growth strategy. We are committed to providing world-class People Solutions, employee benefits, and corporate risk management services to businesses in the region. As one of India’s most influential economic centers, Bangalore plays a key role in shaping corporate strategies, and Lockton India is thrilled to be part of this thriving ecosystem.”

Bangalore is a technology hub and a key center for innovation-driven industries. The opening of the office marks a major milestone in Lockton India’s expansion strategy, strengthening its presence in key financial and commercial hubs nationwide. Following recent office launches in Delhi and Kolkata, Lockton continues to bring its unparalleled global expertise closer to clients in these regions.

About Lockton

What makes Lockton stand apart is also what makes us better: independence. Lockton’s private ownership empowers its 12,500+ Associates doing business in more than 150 countries to focus solely on clients’ risk and insurance needs. With expertise that reaches around the globe, Lockton delivers the deep understanding needed to accomplish remarkable results.

Chinese Wok Expands Footprint With 32nd Store In Bengaluru

Chinese Wok, India’s largest Chinese restaurant chain, has announced the launch of its 32nd store in Bengaluru, located at Embassy Manyata Business Park. With this expansion, the brand continues its aggressive growth strategy, aiming to establish 500 outlets across the country by 2027 reinforcing its position as a leader in the Desi-Chinese dining space.

The newly opened outlet in Manyata Business Park boasts a vibrant and modern ambience, featuring trendy interiors, enhanced lighting, and stylish wall décor, creating an inviting atmosphere for customers. Enhancing the dining experience further, Chinese Wok has introduced an Augmented Reality (AR) feature—customers can scan the AR QR code placed on tables to watch a virtual chef come to life, adding an interactive and immersive element to their visit. To engage online customers, Chinese Wok launched an exclusive limited edition Women’s Day packaging that celebrated womanhood by beautifully capturing life’s key moments—friendship, career, self-care, and family—all over a comforting bowl of noodles.

“This expansion marks an exciting milestone for Chinese Wok as we continue to strengthen our presence across India. We are committed to delivering an unparalleled Indo-Chinese dining experience by combining great taste, affordability, and innovation. The introduction of AR technology at our stores further enhances customer engagement, making dining at Chinese Wok both enjoyable and interactive,” said Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder and Director, Lenexis Foodworks.

To celebrate this launch, Chinese Wok is offering exciting in-store deals:

Superrr Bowl Offer – A Manchurian bowl with fried rice or noodles and a Pepsi for just ?99.

Wok Wednesdays – Buy 1, Get 1 Free on select items.

Super Sundays – Enjoy the full menu at just ?149.

With its continued expansion and innovative dining experiences, Chinese Wok remains committed to redefining the desi-chinese QSR landscape in India, offering customers a perfect blend of taste, convenience, and affordability.

About Lenexis Foodworks

Lenexis Foodworks is a leading quick service food company in India, dedicated to crafting exceptional culinary experiences through its restaurants across high streets and malls. It operates a portfolio of distinct brands—Chinese Wok, The Momo Co., and Big Bowl—that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences, making it a trusted name in the food and beverage industry.

Founded in 2015, Chinese Wok is the flagship brand under Lenexis Foodworks and stands as India’s largest Chinese QSR brand. It is transforming the way Chinese cuisine is enjoyed by staying true to its founding principles of offering high-quality, hygienic Desi-Chinese dishes at affordable prices. It has a footprint of more than 220 outlets in 35+ cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Vadodara, Pune, Chennai, Coimbatore, Jaipur and Hyderabad With plans to introduce new concepts and categories, Lenexis Foodworks is poised to redefine the culinary landscape, delivering delightful experiences to customers across the nation.

For more details, visit https://www.thechinesewok.com/