Marriott International, acknowledged as the world's largest hotel chain based on the number of rooms, restated its enduring commitment to South Asia. The commitment involves the inclusion of over 4,600 rooms in the development pipeline, a result of signing 28 hotel deals in 2023 and the ongoing deals this year. South Asia, as defined by Marriott, encompasses India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The company emphasised that this plan reflects its expansion strategy in the region, where it presently manages a portfolio of 160 operational properties spanning 17 distinct brands. Specifically, in India, Marriott oversees operations in 148 hotels. For the year 2024, Marriott envisions the opening of 14 hotels. This projection follows the introduction of the Moxy brand in South Asia in early January 2024. Furthermore, the company disclosed its intention to launch The Ritz-Carlton brand with The Ritz-Carlton, Amila Hills in Shimla, slated to open in May 2029. Expanding its luxury presence in India is also part of the plan, with the addition of JW Marriott Surat Resort and Spa and JW Marriott Sohna Resort and Spa in Delhi-NCR. Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International, asserted, Marriott International's strategic expansion in South Asia solidifies our commitment to accentuate the strong growth within the region's travel and tourism sector. He highlighted the company's diverse brand portfolio, the award-winning travel program Marriott Bonvoy, and robust distribution platforms, positioning them well to provide experiences and benefits for guests and stakeholders in the region. Kiran Andicot, Regional Vice President Development, South Asia at Marriott International, conveyed that the chain's primary focus remains on seizing opportunities in key gateway cities, strategic commercial centres, and major resort destinations in the region.