Representatives of the Ministry of National Defence, Vientiane authorities, and Infinity Group share in a groundbreaking ceremony for the 703 Airport Commons project near Wattay International Airport in Vientiane on November 11.

New commercial complex planned near Wattay Airport

A new commercial and residential complex is set to transform a site near Wattay International Airport, bringing new shopping, accommodation and leisure facilities to Vientiane.
A groundbreaking ceremony for the US$80 million 703 Airport Commons project took place on Wednesday, marking the start of a joint development between the Ministry of National Defence and Infinity Group on the site of the former 703 Air Force Base, next to the airport perimeter.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of National Defence Major General Kongthong Sukhavong, Chairman of the Vientiane Capital Administration Committee, Mr Sililaththongsin Thongpheng, President of the Infinity Group, Mr Rao Sanping, and representatives of government and private organisations.
The development will transform the airport area into a modern commercial, shopping, accommodation and leisure centre, serving both foreign visitors and Vientiane residents.
Construction will take place in two phases, with the first scheduled for handover on December 31, 2027, and the second on June 30, 2029.
The first phase will comprise nine buildings and a central shopping area, including hotels, serviced apartments, luxury residences, retail outlets, and leisure facilities.
Accommodation will range from high-end properties, including sky villas and spacious apartments, to hotels serving business travellers, tourists and people seeking longer stays in the capital. A duty-free shop is also planned.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Major General Kongthong said the project would help improve infrastructure and services around Wattay International Airport, a major gateway to Laos.
“It represents an important step in upgrading infrastructure, services and tourism in the area of Wattay International Airport, which is the gateway to our country, Laos,” he said.
The development would improve services for passengers and tourists, create jobs, and generate income through tourism and trade. It is also expected to generate revenue for the Ministry of National Defence, he added.
Major General Kongthong highlighted the importance of the airport area in shaping visitors’ first impressions of Laos, saying modern facilities and an attractive environment would help strengthen the capital’s image.
Unlike a conventional enclosed shopping centre, 703 Airport Commons will combine commercial and residential buildings with landscaped courtyards, trees, natural light and open spaces.
The developer describes the design as a shared community concept, where people can shop, relax, meet friends and enjoy green spaces. Residents will also have access to leisure facilities close to their homes.
President of the Infinity Group, Mr Rao Sanping, said the company was committed to building a high-quality development that would contribute to Vientiane’s modernisation.
“The project will strictly comply with Lao law, national defence and security regulations, and international engineering standards, putting safety first and quality at its foundation,” he said.
“We will build on sound technical principles and maintain strict quality control, take on local workers and train local talent, and create a high-quality showcase project at the airport gateway,” he added.
Given the project’s location adjacent to Wattay International Airport, Major General Kongthong stressed the need to comply with technical standards, maintain safety during construction, and ensure work does not disrupt airport operations.
He urged the developer and relevant entities to maintain close cooperation, address problems promptly, and complete construction within the planned timetable.
The project is expected to improve commercial facilities, attract business activity, and support employment as Vientiane expands its urban services.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update November 13, 2026)