Dusit International, a leading hotel and property development company based in Thailand, has unveiled ambitious plans to significantly broaden its footprint across India. The expansion will see the introduction of its luxury and upper midscale brands into key emerging markets, with a strategic eye on major metropolitan destinations in a subsequent phase.
Building on the successful launch of dusitD2 Fagu, Shimla in December 2024, Dusit is set to introduce its signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to high-potential regions nationwide. The company identifies India’s rapidly evolving hospitality sector, driven by increasing disposable incomes, surging demand for premium accommodations, and improved connectivity, as ripe for development.
While exploring opportunities in India’s Tier 1 cities, Dusit’s immediate focus is on Tier 2 and Tier 3 destinations. These markets, currently underserved by luxury and upscale hospitality options, present a unique opportunity for Dusit to deliver bespoke, high-end experiences tailored to local preferences. This strategic approach follows the recent signing of three significant properties in Karnataka: the wellness-focused Devarana Sakleshpur, Karnataka – A Dusit Retreat, slated for a 2028 opening, and two forthcoming Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts.
Dusit’s diverse brand portfolio, ranging from the ultra-luxury Devarana – Dusit Retreats to upper midscale and midscale brands like Dusit Princess and ASAI Hotels, positions it to cater to a wide spectrum of business and leisure travelers in these burgeoning locations. The company emphasizes a commitment to quality over quantity, meticulously selecting sites that align with its ethos of premium, experience-driven hospitality. This includes a distinctive blend of holistic wellness, contemporary design, and exceptional service.
As part of this vision, Dusit is preparing to open six new hotels across India. The upper-midscale Dusit Princess brand will make its debut in Raipur (200 keys), Bhiwadi (165 keys), Kolkata (220 keys), and Lonavala (120 keys). Additionally, two boutique luxury properties under the newly introduced Dusit Collection brand – in Kasol and Manali (each with 40 rooms) – will offer refined retreats amidst the picturesque Himalayan foothills.
“India presents an extraordinary growth opportunity for Dusit, both in major metros and, crucially, in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where premium hospitality choices remain limited despite robust demand,” stated Mr. Siradej Donavanik, Vice President – Development (Global), Dusit International. “The country’s tourism industry is experiencing rapid evolution, with increasing desire for high-quality, experience-driven stays. By harmonizing our distinct Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with wellness-focused experiences and destination-specific properties, we aim to craft exceptional stays that deeply resonate with Indian travelers. Through strategic collaborations with forward-thinking local developers, we are dedicated to shaping India’s premium hospitality landscape for the long term.”
Beyond the immediate expansion, Dusit is committed to fostering an integrated hospitality ecosystem in India. This encompasses luxury accommodations, holistic wellness programs, sophisticated culinary experiences, and hospitality education, all designed to deliver enduring value. Central to this vision is Dusit’s group-wide “Tree of Life” sustainability program. This initiative, aligned with selected United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, incorporates 31 measurable criteria to ensure a lasting positive impact in every community Dusit serves.
Furthermore, through Dusit Hospitality Education, the company will prioritize local talent development, ensuring that Indian hospitality professionals are trained to uphold global service standards. These combined initiatives underscore Dusit’s commitment to responsible hospitality and its long-term vision for sustainable growth in the global hospitality industry.
Dusit’s strategic entry into the Indian market is a key component of its broader global expansion, which targets dynamic, high-growth markets including Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, and China. With an ambitious goal of signing over 100 hotels worldwide within the next five years, Dusit is poised to captivate travelers globally with its unique fusion of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality and thoughtfully integrated local traditions.
