DDA Moves Forward with First Swiss Challenge Projects in Dwarka
The Delhi Development Authority is taking concrete steps to finalize its inaugural projects under the Swiss Challenge method. This innovative approach, adopted in December 2025, aims to accelerate large-scale public-private partnership initiatives across the capital. Three significant developments in Dwarka have now progressed to the technical bid evaluation stage, marking a crucial milestone in this process.
Three Major Developments in Focus
DDA has identified three key projects for implementation through this new framework. A super-speciality hospital will rise in Sector 9, while a five-star hotel is planned for Sector 23. Additionally, a commercial mall will be developed in Sector 22 of Dwarka. These projects represent the authority's commitment to transforming Delhi's infrastructure through collaborative efforts.
The public notice issued by DDA outlines specific plans for the hospital project. A land parcel in Sector 9 will be allotted on a licence-fee basis through the Swiss Challenge process. This 9.3-acre site currently sits vacant, awaiting development. The project will adhere strictly to development control norms prescribed under the Master Plan of Delhi 2021 and Unified Building Bye-Laws from 2016.
Officials have confirmed the hospital site will have a permissible floor area ratio of 375. The licence period will extend for 55 years, including the construction phase. According to the official notice, this initiative specifically aims to foster public-private engagement in reshaping Delhi's urban landscape.
Understanding the Swiss Challenge Method
The Swiss Challenge method represents a strategic bidding process adopted by DDA to ensure competitive pricing and prevent tender failures. This approach proves particularly valuable for large projects that might attract limited participation from developers and investors.
Here is how the process works in practice:
- An initial bid becomes public and serves as the reserve price
- The authority invites counter-bids through a competitive process
- The original bidder retains the right to match the highest counter-offer
This system ensures transparency, fair valuation, and project continuity according to officials familiar with the process. The method helps save considerable time and accelerates implementation, especially for major developments where finding eligible participants can be challenging.
Hotel Project with Unique Golf Course Access
DDA is simultaneously finalizing technical bids for auctioning licence rights of a 2.5-acre land parcel in Sector 23. This prime location will host a five-star hotel development under the public-private partnership model.
The selected agency will work with an FAR of 375 and 40% ground coverage. The licensee will shoulder responsibility for designing, financing, constructing, and managing a hotel with at least 200 rooms. These facilities must meet standards prescribed by the tourism ministry to ensure quality and service excellence.
A unique feature of this project involves access to the adjacent DDA Golf Course. The licensee will be permitted to book up to 25% of the non-membership-based 'pay-and-play' slots daily for hotel guests. This arrangement will remain effective from the commercial operation date until termination of the licence deed.
An official explained that these conditions were introduced for the first time in the request for proposal specifically to attract investors. The golf course sits directly adjacent to the proposed hotel site, creating a natural synergy between the two facilities.
Specific Conditions for Golf Course Access
Hotel guests wishing to use the golf course must follow specific guidelines. Bookings need to be made at least 24 hours in advance to secure playing time. These guests will enjoy a 25% discount on the prevailing green fee at the time of booking.
The access extends to designated areas of the golf course, including:
- The playing greens
- The clubhouse facilities
- Restaurants or cafeteria
- Pro shop
- Driving range
Importantly, these discounted rates apply exclusively to guests staying at the hotel developed under this specific project. This creates an integrated experience for visitors while adding value to the hotel development.
The Delhi Development Authority's move to implement the Swiss Challenge method signals a shift toward more efficient project execution. By combining competitive bidding with guaranteed participation, DDA hopes to overcome previous hurdles in large-scale infrastructure development. These three projects in Dwarka could set a precedent for future urban development initiatives across the national capital region.
