Thailand’s renowned hospitality brand, Dusit International, is set to make its mark in France through a new joint venture with French real estate investment company SYDEL. The collaboration introduces Dusit’s unique Thai-inspired luxury and gracious hospitality to one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations.
The move is part of Dusit’s ambitious global expansion strategy and reflects the brand’s commitment to offering culturally distinctive, high-quality travel experiences. With its diverse portfolio of hotels and resorts, Dusit aims to blend traditional Thai service with European elegance, creating memorable stays for international travelers and local guests alike.
Introducing Dusit France
The joint venture, named Dusit France, will focus on identifying strategic locations across the country to establish properties under several of Dusit’s acclaimed hotel brands. These brands span the hospitality spectrum, offering options from upscale lifestyle hotels to full-service luxury retreats. French travelers and international visitors can soon experience the brand’s hallmark of Thai graciousness in urban centers and leisure destinations alike.
Brands under consideration for the French market include:
- Dusit Thani – Bespoke luxury experiences in prime locations
- Devarana – Dusit Retreats – Wellness-focused luxury resorts
- Dusit Collection – Unique character-driven luxury hotels
- Dusit Hotels – Upper upscale properties for business and leisure
- dusitD2 – Lifestyle-focused upscale accommodations
- Dusit Princess – Upper midscale hotels with modern comfort
- ASAI Hotels – Midscale lifestyle properties targeting millennial travelers
- Dusit Suites – Long-stay lifestyle suites for extended visits
The collaboration will also support asset owners in repositioning projects, introducing innovative hotel concepts designed to deliver exceptional guest experiences, champion wellness, and create sustainable value for stakeholders.
A Strategic Partnership for Global Expansion
The partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony in Paris on 10 July 2025, where Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer of Dusit International, highlighted the significance of this milestone for the company’s global expansion.
“We are thrilled to partner with SYDEL to seek opportunities to expand Dusit’s footprint and bring our distinctive brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to France – one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations,” said Mr Cretallaz.
“This partnership marks an important milestone in our global expansion strategy, and we are confident that our unique blend of cultural authenticity, innovation, and gracious service will resonate strongly with travellers and developers alike.”
SYDEL’s local expertise will play a vital role in identifying key destinations where Dusit can create unique offerings. From the bustling streets of Paris to picturesque French Riviera towns, potential properties will reflect a fusion of Thai warmth and French sophistication.
Expanding Dusit’s European Footprint
Currently, Dusit operates 294 properties across 18 countries, including 55 under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and 239 luxury villas under the Elite Havens brand. In Europe, the company already manages Dusit Suites Athens, located in the vibrant coastal district of Glyfada on the Athenian Riviera. This successful European debut sets a promising precedent for the brand’s entry into the French market.
With France being a global tourism leader, welcoming millions of international visitors annually, Dusit’s entry is expected to attract discerning travelers seeking an elevated, culturally immersive experience. By combining traditional Thai hospitality with European design and lifestyle influences, the upcoming properties aim to deliver something truly distinctive in the competitive French hotel market.
Future Dusit hotels in France are expected to feature the group’s signature offerings, including holistic wellness programs, culinary experiences inspired by Thai and local French cuisine, and service philosophies centered around warmth and attentiveness. Wellness retreats under the Devarana – Dusit Retreats brand will focus on mind-body balance, while city hotels like Dusit Thani and dusitD2 will cater to both leisure and business travelers with modern amenities and intuitive service.
The strategic locations, coupled with Thai-inspired interiors and unique dining concepts, are designed to appeal to international tourists, European travelers, and local guests looking for fresh hospitality experiences.
Table: Dusit Hotels and Their French Market Appeal
| Hotel Brand | Segment | Key Appeal in France |
|---|---|---|
| Dusit Thani | Luxury | Premium urban and resort locations |
| Devarana – Dusit Retreats | Wellness Luxury | Health and wellness-focused retreats |
| dusitD2 | Lifestyle Upscale | Modern, design-led city stays |
| Dusit Princess | Upper Midscale | Comfortable, value-driven accommodations |
| ASAI Hotels | Lifestyle Midscale | Social spaces and local immersion |
This partnership also underscores Dusit’s broader long-term strategy of balance, expansion, and diversification. By extending its footprint to France, the group positions itself to tap into one of the largest and most resilient hospitality markets in the world while maintaining its commitment to cultural authenticity and sustainability.
Travelers can anticipate a fresh wave of Thai-inspired hospitality experiences in France in the coming years. From relaxing retreats surrounded by nature to sophisticated urban escapes, Dusit is poised to create a new chapter in Franco-Thai tourism synergy.
