Dusit International to Manage Luxury Resort and Residences in Phuket

Dusit International to Manage Luxury Resort and Residences in Phuket

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 10, 2024

Dusit International, a leading hotel and property development company in Thailand, has entered into a partnership with Phuket-based real estate developer VillaCarte Group to manage a dual-branded luxury hotel and residence project in Phuket. This new development, Layan Verde, is set to open in 2027 and aims to become an iconic destination on the island’s west coast.

Located just 800 meters from Bang Tao Beach, Layan Verde spans over 108,000 square meters and features 15 mid-rise buildings designed by Mohammed Adi, Chief Design Officer at Dewan Architects + Engineers. The design focuses on blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings, incorporating principles of Biophilic Architecture for energy efficiency and sustainability.

The project will consist of two distinct brands: Dusit Collection and Dusit Residences. The Dusit Collection – Layan Verde hotel will be the first under Dusit’s new luxury brand, offering 398 rooms across five buildings. This brand targets luxury hotels in iconic locations, known for their unique architecture and exceptional guest experiences.

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Dusit Residences – Layan Verde will manage another five buildings with 388 rooms. This brand brings Dusit’s renowned five-star hospitality service to luxury condominiums and apartments, leveraging its extensive experience in managing high-end hotels and resorts globally.

Guests and residents at both Dusit Collection and Dusit Residences Layan Verde will enjoy a range of premium amenities. These include an all-day dining restaurant, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a kids club, a rooftop bar, and expansive banqueting spaces. Additionally, the project will feature a shopping center and an ocean club, enhancing the luxury residential offerings in the region.

In line with VillaCarte Group’s vision for sustainable real estate development and Dusit’s commitment to environmental conservation, the project will adhere to principles of Biophilic Architecture. Interiors will feature eco-friendly, moisture-resistant materials and premium high-quality furniture. Advanced EDGE-certified technology will be used to reduce water and electricity consumption by up to 45%.

Siradej Donavanik, Vice President – Global Development at Dusit International, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership: “Our partnership with VillaCarte Group represents a unique opportunity to redefine luxury residential living in Phuket. By combining Layan Verde’s stunning location and commitment to sustainable design with Dusit’s over 75 years of experience in Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, we will create a truly world-class offering that caters to the discerning needs of locals, residents, guests, and investors alike. This project perfectly complements our existing Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket resort and further strengthens our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences in Phuket.”

VillaCarte Group’s Co-CEO, Maxim Spiridonov, said “Dusit International is renowned for its gracious hospitality and expanding network of properties worldwide. Collaborating with the company is the first step in our strategy of partnering with reputable global brands, and we are confident Dusit’s expertise will help elevate Layan Verde to the level of a landmark project and an iconic symbol of Phuket.”

Dusit International’s portfolio now includes 301 properties across 18 countries, with plans for more than 60 additional properties in the pipeline. This expansion solidifies Dusit’s position as a major player in the global hospitality industry, offering diverse and luxurious accommodation options.


Malaysia Aviation Group Expands A330neo Fleet with 20 New Aircraft to Boost Long-Haul Growth

Malaysia Aviation Group Expands A330neo Fleet with 20 New Aircraft to Boost Long-Haul Growth

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 13, 2025

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines, has announced a major expansion of its widebody fleet with the order of 20 additional Airbus A330neo aircraft. This new agreement brings MAG’s total commitment to 40 A330neo jets, reinforcing its strategy for long-term growth, fleet modernisation, and premium service delivery.

The fresh order, signed directly with Airbus, follows MAG’s 2022 commitment for 20 A330neos, split between direct purchases and leases through Avolon. Deliveries for the new batch are scheduled from 2029 to 2031, aligning with MAG’s goal of becoming a future-ready aviation group.

The A330neo has been central to MAG’s ongoing transformation. Known for fuel efficiency, extended range, and passenger comfort, the aircraft features next-generation Business Class suites, lie-flat beds, and upgraded inflight entertainment across all cabins—positioning Malaysia Airlines to better serve evolving traveller expectations.

The expanded fleet will allow the airline to boost operations across key long-haul markets, including ASEAN, India, China, and Australasia, aligning with the Group’s premium full-service carrier model.

“The A330neo continues to deliver the right balance of operational efficiency, range, and cabin comfort to support our network and growth strategy,” said Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG. “This additional order reinforces our long-term vision of building a future-ready fleet that supports sustainable growth and strengthens our competitiveness in key markets.”

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales at Airbus, added, “This repeat order is a strong endorsement of the A330neo’s performance, efficiency, and passenger appeal.”

MAG has already taken delivery of four A330neo aircraft, with six more scheduled for arrival by the end of this year. The remaining deliveries from the original order are expected through 2028, ensuring a steady fleet upgrade over the coming years.

With this move, Malaysia Airlines is poised to solidify its position as one of Asia-Pacific’s top widebody operators, offering consistent service excellence, regional connectivity, and a more sustainable flight experience.


Norwegian Air Posts Strong Q2, Announces First-Ever Dividend Amid Record Passenger Numbers

Norwegian Air Posts Strong Q2, Announces First-Ever Dividend Amid Record Passenger Numbers

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 13, 2025

Norwegian Air has posted better-than-expected second-quarter earnings, marking a significant milestone with the announcement of its first-ever dividend payout. The airline reported an operating profit of 1.25 billion Norwegian crowns ($123.84 million), beating the market consensus of 1.04 billion crowns compiled by the company.

In a major boost for shareholders, Norwegian will distribute a dividend of 0.90 Norwegian crowns per share, reflecting the airline's strong financial performance and strategic recovery efforts post-pandemic.

"The operating profit and margin are the second highest we have ever had in this quarter, and the passenger numbers and load factor are the highest in a second quarter since 2019," said CEO Geir Karlsen in a statement.

The airline attributes its robust performance to record passenger numbers and load factors in June, indicating strong summer travel demand despite ongoing challenges in the aviation sector.

Norwegian has reaffirmed its capacity outlook of 37,500 million seat kilometres for the year, maintaining a confident growth trajectory. However, the airline noted that unit costs, excluding fuel, are expected to increase by a low to mid-single-digit percentage compared to 2024.

Delays in aircraft deliveries from Boeing and Airbus continue to strain operations, with parts of the fleet undergoing maintenance or nearing decommission. Despite these headwinds, Norwegian Air remains optimistic about sustaining its momentum through the remainder of the year.

This announcement reinforces Norwegian's renewed financial stability and strategic agility, positioning the airline for further growth in the competitive budget travel space.


UAE Opens Golden Visa to Indians Without Property or Business Investment

UAE Opens Golden Visa to Indians Without Property or Business Investment

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 8, 2025

In a landmark move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new route for Indian citizens to obtain the prestigious Golden Visa — now without the need to buy property or launch a business. This shift is part of a pilot program that simplifies the path to long-term residency, specifically targeting skilled Indian professionals and creators.

The Golden Visa offers a 10-year or lifetime residency permit that allows foreigners to live, work, or study in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. With the new update, eligible Indians can apply by nomination through approved UAE partners and pay a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh).

This initiative reflects the UAE’s strategic efforts to strengthen its knowledge-based economy and deepen ties with India under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in 2022. The program is expected to receive over 5,000 applications in its first 90 days.

What’s New for Indians?

Under the new scheme:

  • No property purchase, business license, or investment is needed.

  • Applicants must be nominated by approved UAE partner organizations.

  • A fixed one-time fee of AED 100,000 covers lifetime visa eligibility, including admin costs.

  • No recurring taxes or investment maintenance required.

The visa allows unrestricted re-entry and continued residency even if the holder spends extended periods outside the UAE.

Who Can Apply?

The pilot program is open to individuals with experience or expertise in sectors of interest to the UAE, such as:

  • Senior professionals in education, healthcare, and corporates

  • University lecturers, school teachers, and experienced nurses

  • Digital creators (YouTubers, podcasters, filmmakers, authors)

  • Coders, esports professionals, yacht owners, and maritime workers

Application Process:

  1. Contact an authorized agent. The Rayad Group, in partnership with VFS Global and One Vasco, is managing the nomination process in India.

  2. Submit your qualifications and background at One Vasco centres.

  3. Pay the one-time fee.

  4. Complete background checks, including criminal, financial, and social media history.

  5. Receive Golden Visa approval and lifetime residency rights upon clearance.

This simplified path to UAE residency makes the Golden Visa more accessible to talented Indians from non-investment backgrounds, marking a significant policy shift in the region’s migration landscape.

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