Dusit International, one of Thailand’s premier hotel and property development firms, has signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Development Fund (TDF). This agreement, formalized at the 2024 World Travel Market in London, aims to set the groundwork for new hospitality projects across Saudi Arabia, enhancing the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure and expanding Dusit’s reach into a key growth market.

This collaboration aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes expanding the tourism sector to attract international visitors. According to recent figures, the Kingdom achieved 8.2% growth in visitor spending in early 2024, totaling around SAR 92.6 billion, alongside a notable surplus in the travel account. Additionally, international tourist arrivals in Saudi Arabia surged by 73% in 2024 compared to 2019, with tourism receipts climbing by 207%, leading the G20 countries in tourism growth metrics. With this growing appeal, Saudi Arabia aims to support sustainable, high-impact projects that will diversify the tourism sector and support infrastructure enhancements.

Under the MoU, Dusit and TDF will collaborate to identify and develop strategic hotel projects across the Kingdom, leveraging Dusit’s extensive hospitality experience and brand portfolio. Dusit’s CEO, Ms. Suphajee Suthumpun, emphasized the importance of this partnership, noting, “This marks a significant milestone for us as we seek to bring our unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to one of the world’s most dynamic tourism landscapes.” She highlighted that Saudi Arabia represents a key growth market for Dusit and welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the Kingdom’s National Tourism Strategy.

Dusit currently operates 301 properties in 18 countries, including eight hotels in the Middle East, under a range of brands, such as Dusit Thani, dusitD2, and Dusit Princess, among others. Recently, the company introduced the Devarana – Dusit Retreats brand, specializing in luxury wellness, and Dusit Collection, which focuses on bespoke luxury. The company’s diversified expertise also includes hospitality education through Dusit Thani College and Le Cordon Bleu Dusit Culinary School, property development through Dusit Estate, and hospitality-related services.

The Mansard in Saudi Arabia is Dusit’s latest project, adding to its footprint in the region. Through this partnership, Dusit and TDF aim to deliver exceptional hospitality experiences that provide long-term value for guests, investors, and the community, strengthening Saudi Arabia’s positioning as a leading tourism destination.