Thai hospitality group Dusit Hotels and Resorts is expanding its presence in Yangon, Myanmar, taking over the management of three prominent properties despite wider industry retrenchment in the market, according to a report by Skift.
Dusit's operational strategy relies on management contracts for existing properties rather than direct equity investment or development. Under these agreements, property owners bear the primary financial risks and operational costs if market demand remains muted, while Dusit's exposure is largely limited to reputational risk.
Portfolio Expansion and Operations
In early November 2026, Dusit launched management operations at two Yangon locations:
- The Strand Hotel Yangon – Dusit Collection
- ASAI Yangon Sule
A third property, Dusit Hotel Inya Lake Yangon, is scheduled to follow under Dusit management. This property marks a return to a location Dusit previously managed beginning in 2002. The property is currently under different ownership than during its prior tenure with the brand, though specific details regarding the end of the previous contract were not disclosed.
Market Focus and Outlook
Dusit is framing its business in Yangon around corporate and business travel rather than expecting a quick rebound in international tourism.
"We recognise that Myanmar presents a complex and challenging operating environment, and we do not anticipate a significant recovery in international leisure tourism in the near term," Chanin Donavanik, group CEO of Dusit International, stated to Skift.
To manage potential exposure, the group is incorporating outside background checks on property owners alongside its business-focused operational model.
