Dusit & TDF: Elevating Hospitality Standards

Dusit International & TDF: Leading the Hospitality Industry

Dusit International has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tourism Development Fund (TDF), which is Saudi Arabia's national body dedicated to supporting the tourism sector. This agreement establishes a preliminary framework for developing hospitality projects aimed at enhancing the country's tourism infrastructure.

The MoU was signed at the World Travel Market 2024 in London, underscoring Dusit’s commitment to sustainable international expansion in key global markets. It also highlights TDF’s dedication to fostering international partnerships to develop luxury hotels and resorts throughout the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia experienced 8.2% growth in inbound visitor spending within its travel account during the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, reaching approximately SAR 92.6 billion. The Kingdom also recorded a surplus in the travel account of around SAR 41.6 billion. This surge in visitor spending highlights Saudi Arabia’s significant achievements in tourism, as it led all G20 countries in international tourist arrivals and the growth rate of international tourism receipts during the first seven months of 2024. Compared to the same period in 2019, international tourist arrivals increased by 73%, and international tourism receipts rose by 207%, based on data from UN Tourism.

With Saudi Arabia's National Tourism Strategy and the framework of Saudi Vision 2030, the Tourism Development Fund (TDF) aims to diversify the Kingdom's tourism sector by supporting impactful projects focused on sustainable development and world-class infrastructure. Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Dusit will work with TDF to identify prime opportunities for hotel development that utilize Dusit's 75 years of hospitality expertise and diverse brand portfolio, which includes lifestyle hotels and exclusive villa rentals. Together, they intend to create unique guest experiences and provide lasting value for hotel owners, investors, and the wider community.

“Dusit International is deeply honoured to sign this MoU,” said Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO of Dusit International. 

“This marks a significant milestone for us as we seek to bring our unique Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to one of the world's most dynamic tourism landscapes. Saudi Arabia is a key focus for our growth, and partnering with TDF provides invaluable opportunities to connect with high-potential investments across the Kingdom. We look forward to contributing to Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy and delivering hotel experiences that bring enduring value to all stakeholders.”

Dusit boasts a diverse portfolio of 301 properties across 18 countries, including eight hotels in the Middle East. Its established brands include Dusit Thani (luxury), DusitD2 (lifestyle/midscale), Dusit Princess (midscale), Dusit Suites (upscale/extended stay), and ASAI Hotels (affordable lifestyle). Recently, Dusit expanded its brand lineup by adding Devarana—Dusit Retreats (luxury wellness) and Dusit Collection (bespoke luxury).

Beyond hospitality, Dusit actively contributes to the industry through its educational arm, Dusit Hospitality Education. This includes institutions such as Dusit Thani College, Le Cordon Bleu Dusit Culinary School, and The Food School, all dedicated to training future hospitality leaders. Dusit’s expertise is further strengthened by group-wide synergies with Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate (property development), and Hospitality-Related Services.