Grand Asset, BDMS, and The Mall Group are collaborating to tap into the Middle Eastern tourist market, particularly from the GCC countries, especially Saudi Arabia, by presenting outstanding products that encompass travel, health, and shopping. They aim to promote Thailand as a lifestyle and health tourism hub.

Mr. Witthawat Wipakool, CEO of Grand Asset Hotels and Property Public Company Limited, revealed that the company has partnered with Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited (BDMS) and The Mall Group to offer exceptional tourism and service products that cover five-star hotel accommodations, health tourism with international hospital networks, and shopping experiences at leading department stores for Middle Eastern customers, particularly from Saudi Arabia and the GCC, which is a market with significant growth potential. The six GCC countries have a combined population of over 57 million, with Saudi Arabia alone having nearly 35 million people, making it a large market in the region with high purchasing power. There is also a growing trend due to the resumption of direct flights to Thailand from both Thai Airways and Saudi airlines, as Thailand is a favored travel destination for Saudi citizens.

“Grand Asset is ready to accommodate Saudi tourists who prefer luxurious and comfortable vacations with our five hotels, including The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit, a hotel located in the heart of Bangkok's business district, Royal Orchid Sheraton, a riverside hotel opposite Icon Siam, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, and Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas, a seaside resort. Additionally, we have partner hotels in various destinations such as Phuket, Samui, Pattaya, Rayong, and Chiang Mai, totaling over 3,000 rooms that can cater to the lifestyle of Middle Eastern customers who prefer group travel and long-term stays.”

Grand Asset is also collaborating with Alfaiz Thai Travel to manage travel arrangements. Alfaiz Thai Travel is a Destination Management Company that plans to penetrate the Saudi Arabian and Middle Eastern markets with packages focusing on tourists interested in Holistic Luxury Travel, Corporate, Leisure, and Medical and Wellness tourism. As the trend in tourism shifts, travelers are increasingly interested in health tourism, with longer trip durations for both treatment and relaxation, including families seeking full-service experiences, such as trip planning and activities during their stay.

In terms of collaboration with The Mall Group, a leader in retail project development in Thailand, they aim to cater to Middle Eastern tourists who enjoy shopping. The Mall Group's department stores, such as Siam Paragon, Emporium, and EmQuartier, are on the must-visit list for these tourists, who are among the top spenders. Middle Eastern tourists are also known for having the highest average spending per bill. The Mall Group is ready to be a partner in welcoming Middle Eastern tourists and enhancing Thailand's status as a major business and tourism hub in the ASEAN region.