By Ricky Laxa
Staff Writer
The Royal Bhutanese Embassy in Kuwait, in cooperation with FAS Holding Group of Companies, hosted an enlightening event to promote Bhutan’s tourism and investment prospects. The event was held on Saturday, October 17, at Sedra Continental Hotel and featured informative presentations, as well as the commemoration of the 15th Royal Wedding Anniversary of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Bhutan and the 18th Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty the King.
The event attracted over 200 participants, representing a distinguished cross-section of Kuwaiti society, including members of the ruling family, prominent business leaders, senior government officials, members of the banking and financial sectors, media representatives and notable figures from the diplomatic community in Kuwait. In attendance were the Director of the Traffic Department, the Chairman of the Insurance Regulatory Authority, and several other distinguished personalities from the public and private sectors.
His Excellency Phub Dorji, Ambassador of Bhutan, delivered an engaging presentation that served as the event’s centrepiece. He eloquently outlined Bhutan’s tourism sector and highlighted the investment opportunities available in the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). This initiative seeks to create a space where mindfulness and sustainable living can flourish, fully in line with Bhutan’s commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH), which emphasises quality of life, cultural harmony, and environmental sustainability.
A key part of Bhutan’s tourism strategy is its “high value, low volume” policy, designed to ensure that the influx of visitors does not compromise the nation’s cultural integrity or natural resources. The Ambassador clearly articulated the philosophy, asserting that Bhutan’s approach is rooted in the unique principles established by the Fourth King. This focus allows Bhutan to offer unique, immersive experiences that prioritise personal and communal well-being over economic gain.
Bhutan’s tourism offers diverse landscapes, which range from lush valleys to towering mountains. Highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, the ambassador encouraged potential visitors from Kuwait to explore these offerings. Tourists to Bhutan have many options, including trekking through pristine wilderness, immersing in colourful festivals, and experiencing traditional Bhutanese hospitality that is both warm and welcoming.
The Ambassador also introduced Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), which aims to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth across eight core sectors: Spiritual; Health and Wellness; Education and Knowledge; Agri-Tech and Forestry; Green Energy and Technologies; Finance and Digital Assets; Aviation and Logistics; and Tourism.
The Ambassador further briefed participants on the 108 Jangchub Chortens, which will be completed together in a single coordinated day at GMC on 1 November 2026. Each chorten will stand 15 meters tall, with the 108 structures arranged in a single line along the Mau Chhu (river), 108 meters apart. Ambassador Dorji also highlighted the upcoming Bhutan Innovation Festival (BIF), scheduled for 24th–26th March 2027 at Dungkar Dzong in Paro, Bhutan.
The event was not merely a platform for promotion but also for fostering meaningful dialogue. Following Ambassador Dorji’s presentation, an interactive question-and-answer session allowed attendees to deepen their understanding of Bhutan’s tourism vision and investment potential. Mr S.N. Ramachandran, Group CFO of FAS Holding Group of Companies, brought the session to life with his vivid recollections of Bhutan.
Drawing on his personal experiences, he painted an evocative picture of a country where peace, happiness and tranquillity are deeply woven into the fabric of everyday life. His reflections offered the audience a glimpse into Bhutan’s distinctive charm, its unhurried pace of life and its enduring sense of serenity. Mr Fouad Mahmoud Alghanim of FAS Holding Group of Companies also shared brief remarks. The Bhutanese Ambassador, meanwhile, briefed participants on the upcoming Invest Bhutan Summit, scheduled to take place in Bhutan on 11–12 February 2027
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