Ascott accelerates Middle East expansion with asset-light resort growth strategy

MIDDLE EAST – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), is accelerating its resort portfolio expansion in the Middle East through an asset-light strategy, capitalizing on growing leisure travel demand.

Supported by 11 new signings in the past 10 months globally, Ascott now has around 50 resort properties in operation and development worldwide.

This marks approximately 5% of its global portfolio of over 1,000 properties, underscoring a strategic focus on the fast-evolving leisure segment.

The company’s strong Middle East expansion includes key resort destinations such as Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah’s premier man-made coral island celebrated for its pristine white beaches and luxury lifestyle offerings.

This entry enhances Ascott’s presence in the region, as it seeks to meet increasing demand from leisure travelers seeking exclusive and experiential stays.

Ascott’s growth is driven by its innovative multi-typology brand strategy, which adapts popular brands, such as Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, and The Unlimited Collection, for the resort environment.

This flexible approach enables efficient scaling in high-potential leisure destinations while addressing the lifestyle aspirations of its growing Ascott Star Rewards membership base.

It also delivers brand-centric, value-driving solutions for property owners.

Beyond the Middle East, Ascott continues to expand in Asia, targeting iconic beach destinations including Patong Beach in Phuket and Jimbaran Beach in Bali.

In Vietnam, it is growing its footprint in Phu Quoc, voted the world’s second-best island, alongside established coastal cities like Nha Trang, and emerging hubs such as Cam Ranh and Sam Son.

In Southeast Asia, Ascott is also entering Labuan Bajo, Indonesia, the gateway to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In South Korea, the company is tapping into rising leisure demand in Gangneung, a popular east coast destination that hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics.

These expansions illustrate Ascott’s commitment to capturing fast-growing leisure markets across diverse geographies.

The global uptrend in experiential and destination-focused travel, combined with rising disposable incomes and an expanding middle class, fuels Ascott’s asset-light, multi-brand strategy.

With over 20 resort properties slated to open worldwide in the next three years, Ascott is well-positioned to deliver exceptional guest experiences while driving value for property owners.

This targeted Middle East and Asia resort growth emphasizes Ascott’s leadership in delivering lifestyle-driven, scalable hospitality offerings designed for today’s leisure travelers.

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