As global hotel developers recalibrate expansion plans amid rising costs and cautious capital, Dusit International has taken a markedly confident route. The Thai hospitality group closed 2025 with its strongest-ever development performance, signalling both developer trust and a sharpened, conversion-led growth strategy.
Dusit International has recorded an all-time high of 24 hotel signings in 2025, significantly expanding its global development pipeline across Asia, the Middle East, and selected emerging markets. The milestone positions the group for a robust year of openings in 2026, with more than 1,400 rooms expected to come on stream, subject to market and regulatory conditions.
Growth anchored in disciplined development
While the volume of signings marks a record, Dusit continues to prioritise asset quality and execution speed over scale alone. A growing emphasis on conversions and brownfield developments has enabled faster delivery timelines, earlier owner returns, and greater flexibility across markets.
This approach was demonstrated in projects both signed and opened during 2025, including Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu; dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives; and Tantawan Tented Camp, Chiang Rai, reflecting the group’s ability to execute efficiently while maintaining brand integrity.
Brand architecture supports global expansion
Dusit’s evolving brand portfolio has been central to its international growth. The introduction of Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Collection, and Dusit Hotels has expanded the group’s reach across wellness-led luxury, character-driven high-end stays, and the upper-upscale segment, allowing closer alignment with owner and market requirements.
Key market milestones in 2025
Indonesia marked a first for the group with the signing of Kaliwatu Villas & Residences – Dusit Collection in Labuan Bajo. Japan saw further momentum with the signing of WE Hotel – Dusit Collection, Lake Toya, building on the success of Dusit Thani Kyoto and ASAI Kyoto Shijo.
India emerged as a major growth engine, with six properties signed across Dusit Collection and Dusit Princess, spanning destinations from Solang and Kasol to Kolkata, Raipur, and Bhiwadi, reflecting a balanced leisure and urban strategy.
The Maldives remained a strategic priority with the signing of Devarana – Dusit Retreat Maldives, reinforcing the group’s long-term commitment to the market. In Saudi Arabia, Dusit expanded its Middle East footprint with Dusit Hotel Al Ahsa, located within the UNESCO-listed Al Ahsa Oasis.
Further signings in the Philippines, Thailand, and Myanmar diversified the pipeline, bringing Dusit’s active global development portfolio to over 50 properties scheduled to open within the next five years.
2026 openings gather momentum
Looking ahead, Dusit is preparing for one of its strongest opening years, with projects advancing across Asia and the Middle East. Among those expected to open in 2026 are WE Hotel – Dusit Collection, Lake Toya; The Strand Hotel, Dusit Collection, Yangon; ASAI Yangon; and the first phase of Dusit Princess Al Majma’ah, Riyadh.
In Southeast Asia, ASAI Gamuda Cove near Kuala Lumpur and Dusit Hotel Greenhills Manila are progressing, alongside multiple Dusit Princess properties across the Philippines.
Leadership perspective
Chanin Donavanik, Group Chief Executive Officer, Dusit International, said the momentum reflects strategic clarity and long-term focus.
“Our priority has been to build a high-quality, well-balanced portfolio that can perform across market cycles. In 2026, we remain focused on disciplined execution and sustainable growth, while staying mindful of broader economic and geopolitical conditions.”
Siradej Donavanik, Vice President – Development (Global), added that alignment remains central to the group’s strategy.
“Whether through new-builds, conversions, or integrated mixed-use developments, our focus is on matching the right brand to the right asset and market, supported by disciplined execution and a clear pathway to long-term value creation.”
Dusit’s global portfolio now comprises 296 properties across 18 countries, including 58 hotels and resorts and 238 luxury villa rentals, spanning nine brands from lifestyle midscale to bespoke luxury.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.
