Sun Group breaks ground on $512 mln Aspira Tower project in Phu Quoc

Sun Group, Vietnam's leading real estate developer, recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the VND13 trillion ($512 million) Aspira Tower project on Hon Thom Island, Phu Quoc, southern Vietnam.

The project, located on Bai Trao Beach within the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem, is designed to symbolize a giant sail catching the wind, inspired by Dubai's iconic Burj Al Arab.

When completed, the 220-meter-tall tower will serve as a luxury resort-entertainment-commercial complex, aiming to position Phu Quoc as a leading tourism destination.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, Nguyen Thanh Nhan, standing Vice Chairman of the Kien Giang province People's Committee, highlighted the project's importance in enhancing Phu Quoc's appeal.

"This tower aligns with the province's vision of leveraging Phu Quoc's potential, attracting high-spending international tourists, and strengthening Vietnam's presence in the regional and global tourism markets," he said.

The Aspira Tower will join Sun Group's other notable projects in Phu Quoc, such as the Hon Thom Cable Car - the world's longest three-wire sea cable car, the Love Bridge, and the Sunset Town complex. Together, these developments aim to establish Phu Quoc as a competitive destination for luxury tourism.

The Aspira Tower is being developed in collaboration with international firms including 10 Design, Arup, Aurecon, and Marriott International.

The central tower, rising 36 stories, will feature a range of luxury services, including the "The Luxury Collection Hon Thom" hotel by Marriott, offering 305 rooms with panoramic views of the sea, fine dining restaurants, rooftop bars, an infinity pool, and spa facilities, a 900-square-meter conference room and a children's play area.

The base of the tower will include multi-functional spaces such as an amusement center, an outdoor restaurant with ocean views, and private pools for ultimate relaxation. Walking paths will connect the structure seamlessly to the surrounding natural beauty.

Over the past decade, Phu Quoc has evolved into one of Vietnam's premier travel destinations. Visitor numbers have grown from 586,000 in 2014 to nearly 6 million in 2024, with international tourists accounting for nearly 1 million arrivals. Tourism revenue is projected to reach VND21 trillion ($827.6 million) this year, reflecting a 43% year-on-year increase.

Direct flights to Phu Quoc from new international markets have expanded significantly, with 27-28 daily flights now connecting the island to destinations worldwide. These developments align with the government's 2040 master plan to transform Phu Quoc into a high-quality tourism hub.

Bui Thanh Trung, chairman of Sun Group in the southern region, described the Aspira Tower as more than just a structure - it represents a new destination for Phu Quoc.

"Through its distinctive design and comprehensive range of services, Aspira Tower will attract millions of domestic and international visitors, redefining Phu Quoc's position on the global tourism map," he said.

Sun Group envisions the Aspira Tower becoming a symbol of Phu Quoc, drawing comparisons to the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, which attracts nearly 3 million visitors annually.

Once completed, the project is expected to elevate Phu Quoc's status as a world-class island destination, blending natural beauty with modern luxury.