Dusit International formally signed a memorandum of understanding with Vietnamese multi-service travel firm Saigontourist Group.

This agreement aims to drive tourism development in Thailand and Vietnam through strategic promotions, enhanced services, and the creation of innovative tourism products.  

Under the terms of this understanding, Dusit International and Saigontourist Group will share technical expertise, experience, and best practices to help elevate the quality and effectiveness of tourism services in both countries. 

At the same time, the two companies will also explore opportunities for joint hotel development and promote each other’s tourism offerings at major events, festivals, and travel fairs.Dusit International chief operating officer Gilles Cretallaz said: “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 organisations and the tourism industries of Vietnam and Thailand.”

Saigontourist Group general director Truong Duc Hung added: “I believe that 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.”

Key source markets

Thailand remains a significant source market for Vietnam’s tourism industry, and Saigontourist Group’s expansive portfolio of hotels, resorts, entertainment venues, and conference facilities across Vietnam welcomes thousands of Thai visitors each year. 

Likewise, Thailand is a popular destination for Vietnamese travellers. In 2023 and the first half of 2024, Saigontourist Travel Service Company arranged trips for approximately 15,400 Vietnamese tourists to experience Thailand’s top destinations, including Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, where Dusit Hotels and Resorts has a strong presence.

Sharing knowledge and training

Alongside its fast-growing portfolio of global hotels and resorts, Dusit is also a key player in hospitality education, with Dusit Thani College, The Food School, and Le Cordon Bleu Dusit Culinary School developing top talent for Dusit Hotels and Resorts and the industry at large. 

Leveraging this, Dusit International and Saigontourist Group will seek to coordinate efforts in education and training for tourism operations to ensure their respective workforces remain at the forefront of industry standards.