After ceasing operations in India in 2016, Thailand-based Dusit Hotels & Resorts has reentered the Indian market with a strategic focus on quality and localization. The company aims to capitalize on India’s burgeoning hospitality industry, projected to reach $30 billion by 2028.
In December 2024, Dusit launched its dusitD2-branded hotel in Shimla, marking its first operational property in India since the rebranding of Dusit Devarana in Delhi to The Roseate. The company has since secured agreements for ten additional properties, totaling an inventory of 800 keys. This expansion introduces a diverse range of brands tailored to various market segments, including the wellness-focused luxury brand Devarana, the lifestyle midscale brand Asai, the upper midscale full-service brand Dusit Princess, and the luxury brand Dusit Collection.
Dusit’s reentry strategy emphasizes personalized service and integration of local cultural elements to enhance guest experiences. By incorporating community-specific features into each property, the company seeks to offer authentic and immersive stays. This approach aligns with the evolving preferences of Indian travelers, who increasingly value unique and localized experiences.
Siradej Donavanik, Vice President of Global Development, acknowledged the delayed reentry but highlighted the company’s deliberate efforts to align its offerings with market demands. By focusing on “old school hospitality” principles and leveraging technology as a facilitative tool rather than a focal point, Dusit aims to distinguish itself in India’s competitive hospitality landscape.
This strategic expansion reflects Dusit’s commitment to establishing a significant presence in India, offering a blend of global standards and local nuances to cater to the diverse needs of modern travelers.
