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In a landmark move set to reshape the Southeast Asian tourism landscape, Dusit International, Thailand’s prestigious hotel and property development company, has officially partnered with Saigontourist Group, Vietnam’s largest multi-service travel corporation. The two industry leaders have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), committing to a robust collaboration to elevate tourism standards and drive economic growth in both nations. This strategic alliance promises to unlock new travel, hospitality, and cultural exchange opportunities between Thailand and Vietnam.

The partnership is pivotal as global travel rebounds, and both countries work to strengthen their tourism sectors post-pandemic. By leveraging their combined expertise, Dusit International and Saigontourist Group will focus on creating innovative travel experiences, boosting service quality, and enhancing cross-border tourism offerings.

Transforming Tourism Standards and Experiences

This new alliance between Dusit International and Saigontourist Group is more than just a business agreement; it represents a concerted effort to revolutionize regional tourism. Under the MOU, both companies will pool their technical knowledge, operational expertise, and best practices to enhance the quality of tourism services in Thailand and Vietnam. This collaboration extends across hotel development, event promotion, and the creation of new, compelling travel products that cater to the evolving demands of international travellers.

Joint promotional efforts at prominent industry events, festivals, and travel fairs will showcase both nations’ rich cultural and natural attractions, attracting tourists from across the globe. Thailand remains a critical market for Vietnamese tourism, with thousands of Thai visitors exploring Vietnam’s diverse portfolio of hotels, resorts, entertainment venues, and conference centres. Similarly, Vietnam continues to emerge as a popular destination for Thai travellers. In 2023 and the first half of 2024 alone, Saigontourist Travel Service arranged trips for approximately 15,400 Vietnamese tourists to experience Thailand’s most sought-after destinations, including Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, where Dusit Hotels and Resorts has a strong foothold.

Investing in Education and Training

Beyond promoting tourism, Dusit International and Saigontourist Group recognise the importance of investing in the future of the hospitality industry. A key aspect of their collaboration will focus on education and training. Both companies are set to coordinate efforts in workforce development, ensuring that their employees remain at the forefront of hospitality and tourism innovation.

Dusit International’s commitment to education is evident through its prestigious institutions such as Dusit Thani College, The Food School, and Le Cordon Bleu Dusit Culinary School. These renowned schools have developed world-class talent for Dusit Hotels and the broader hospitality industry. By sharing these educational resources, Dusit and Saigontourist will enhance the skills of tourism professionals, setting new standards for service excellence in Southeast Asia.

A Shared Vision for Growth

Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer of Dusit International, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to partner with Saigontourist Group to strengthen tourism ties between Thailand and Vietnam. More than just a business agreement, this strategic alliance is a commitment to fostering mutual growth, cultural exchange, and sustainable development in the tourism sector. Our collaboration will undoubtedly lead to new opportunities and innovations, benefiting both our organizations and the tourism industries of Vietnam and Thailand.”

This sentiment is echoed by Mr. Truong Duc Hung, General Director of Saigontourist Group, who believes that the combined potential of both companies will yield remarkable success. “Through close collaboration and leveraging the growth potential of both groups, we will achieve outstanding success in tourism development, thereby contributing to the socio-economic advancement of both Vietnam and Thailand,” he said.

Expanding Dusit’s Global Footprint

Dusit International has steadily expanded its global presence, now boasting 301 properties across 18 countries. Of these, 57 properties are under the Dusit Hotels and Resorts banner. At the same time, the remainder includes 244 luxury villas managed by Elite Havens, Asia’s leading provider of luxury villa rentals, which Dusit acquired in 2018.

In Vietnam, Dusit operates the renowned Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort in Phu Quoc and is set to unveil the luxurious Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa in Hanoi in the coming year. These properties further cement Dusit’s commitment to expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia and contributing to developing the region’s tourism industry.

A Catalyst for Regional Tourism Growth

The signing of the MOU marks the beginning of a new era for tourism in Thailand and Vietnam. Combining their strengths, Dusit International and Saigontourist Group are poised to lead the region in tourism innovation and development. This collaboration will boost tourism revenues and deepen the cultural ties between the two nations, fostering greater understanding and exchange.

As Southeast Asia’s tourism industry continues to evolve, this partnership serves as a beacon of progress, promising exciting new opportunities for travellers and professionals alike. The road ahead for tourism in Thailand and Vietnam is paved with potential, and Dusit and Saigontourist are leading the charge toward a bright and prosperous future.