In a move that underscores Melaka’s growing status as a regional tourism and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) destination, Thailand’s Dusit International has officially opened its first Malaysian property, the Dusit Princess Melaka, on 29 May 2025.
The grand opening of the 296-room upscale hotel arrives at a timely moment. With UN Tourism 2025 and Visit Malaysia 2026 on the horizon, Melaka is in the midst of a significant tourism resurgence. The state recorded over 15 million visitors in 2024 – a 74 per cent year-on-year surge – and is positioning itself as more than just a heritage stopover.
Situated in the heart of Melaka’s UNESCO World Heritage City, the Dusit Princess Melaka is more than just a brand milestone. It represents a strategic bet on the state’s transformation from colonial gem to regional tourism powerhouse. For Dusit, it is also a carefully chosen entry point into Malaysia’s competitive hospitality market.
“With its rich heritage, strategic location, and forward-looking development plans, Melaka provides the ideal setting for our debut in the country,” said Gilles Cretallaz, chief operating officer of Dusit International.
“Dusit Princess Melaka exemplifies our commitment to delivering warm, authentic, and meaningful experiences, and we are delighted to welcome guests from around the world, including delegates attending UN Tourism 2025, to experience the best of both Thai and Malaysian hospitality,” added Gilles.
Designed to blend contemporary Thai elegance with local cultural flavours, the hotel combines panoramic city and Straits views with high-end amenities. Among its signature features: the state’s deepest swimming pool, a fully equipped 24-hour gym, and a suite of restaurants including Zest, the Long Feng Chinese Restaurant, and Famosa Lounge.
But what sets the property apart is its focus on MICE tourism. The 774-square-metre meeting and event space — one of the largest in Melaka — is outfitted with full LED screen capabilities and flexible layouts aimed at both high-profile events and lavish weddings.
This positioning aligns neatly with the government’s broader tourism agenda.
Mohamad Bukhari bin Che Man, Melaka’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) director, at the launch event, noted that the opening of Dusit Princess Melaka strengthens the state’s vision of building a high-value, inclusive tourism sector.
“Dusit Princess Melaka opens at a crucial moment for the tourism sector,” said Mohamed Bukhari, adding that “the hotel represents a meaningful addition to Melaka’s expanding hospitality landscape and supports the state’s continued development as a modern global tourism hub”.
The Governor of Melaka, His Excellency Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, officiated the hotel’s official grand opening ceremony.
Backed by a reputable brand with more than 300 properties across 18 countries, Dusit’s expansion comes with credibility and ambition. Since its soft opening earlier this year, Dusit Princess Melaka has already picked up two accolades at the International Business Magazine Awards 2025: Best Hotel for Business Travellers – Malaysia and Excellence in Regional Hospitality – Malaysia.
It’s an early nod to the property’s dual appeal: business-minded yet leisure-ready, steeped in both Thai service values and local heritage.
For those considering a visit, Dusit Princess Melaka is currently running a limited-time Melaka Retreat package, complete with breakfast, food and beverage credits, complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability), and an additional 15 per cent discount for Dusit Gold Members. This package is available for booking exclusively through this link until 4 January 2026 for stays from now through that date.
Whether it’s the riverside nostalgia of Jonker Street or the convenience of a modern five-star base, Melaka’s latest offering is betting travellers want both — and more. 