Thai billionaire plans to open 250 more hotels in three years

The newly opened Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, which is part of the Minor International portfolio, is one of the most anticipated openings in the Middle East. — Minor Hotels

Minor International, one of Asia’s largest hospitality groups, aims to add 250 properties to its global hotel portfolio over the next three years, as the revival of outbound Chinese travellers underpins the strong recovery of the global tourism sector.

The expansion, most of which will kick in after this year, come as Bill Heinecke, chairman of the Bangkok-based company, said he expects “extraordinary” 2023 results and an even better performance this year. The Thai government’s tourism promotion measures such as visa waivers and an extension of operating hours for entertainment venues have been crucial to growth in Minor’s home market.