Marriott International, the world’s largest hotel chain by number of rooms, on Tuesday reaffirmed its long-term commitment to South Asia by adding more than 4,600 rooms to the development pipeline following the signing of 28 hotel deals in 2023 and this year so far. At Marriott, South Asia comprises India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Marriott said its plan underscores the company’s growth in the region, where it currently has a portfolio of 160 operating properties across 17 distinct brands. The company operates 148 hotels in India.

In 2024, Marriott anticipates opening 14 hotels, following the brand debut of Moxy in South Asia in early January 2024. The company said it plans to debut the Ritz-Carlton brand with The Ritz-Carlton, Amila Hills in Shimla, anticipated to open in May 2029. In addition, it plans to expand its luxury footprint in India with the JW Marriott Surat Resort and Spa and the JW Marriott Sohna Resort and Spa in Delhi-NCR.

“Marriott International’s strategic expansion in South Asia solidifies our commitment to accentuate the strong growth within the region’s travel and tourism sector,” said Rajeev Menon, president, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “Our diverse brand portfolio, Marriott Bonvoy – an award-winning travel programme and strong distribution platforms position us well to create experiences and benefits for our guests and stakeholders in the region,” he said.

Kiran Andicot, regional vice president development, South Asia at Marriott International, said the chain’s focus remains on capitalising on opportunities in key gateway cities, strategic commercial centres, and major resort destinations in the region.

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