Abinader on FITUR success: “We keep improving”

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader celebrated the Dominican Republic’s outstanding participation at the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) 2025 in Madrid, Spain. He highlighted that the country won the award for the best stand for the third consecutive time, surpassing even the host nation, Spain.

Abinader emphasized the nation’s continuous improvement and commitment to excellence, which has led to this repeated recognition in 2022, 2023, and now in 2025. He also underscored the country’s success in foreign direct investment, which reached a historic high of over US$4,500 million in 2024.

The president credited this achievement to the government’s efforts and the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), expressing optimism for continued success in positioning the Dominican Republic as a top global tourism destination.

Hyatt’s bold acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts heralds a new era for Caribbean luxury travel

Santo Domingo.- Hyatt is set to usher in a new era of luxury travel in the Caribbean with its recent announcement to acquire Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. in a high-profile all-cash transaction. This strategic move will reshape the all-inclusive resort segment across key destinations, including Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, which is set to receive an especially significant boost in its tourism sector.

Valued at $13.50 per share, the acquisition reflects Hyatt’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury experiences in some of the world’s most coveted beach destinations.

The transaction follows an extensive review by the board of Playa Hotels & Resorts, designed to maximize shareholder value by offering a 40% premium to its investors. Playa, a leader in the operation of all-inclusive resorts, boasts a portfolio of 24 premium properties with more than 8,600 rooms in key destinations. With its deep-rooted presence in the Caribbean, the integration of Playa into the Hyatt family is expected to introduce enhanced offerings for travelers and to drive stronger brand loyalty through a seamless expansion of Hyatt’s renowned World of Hyatt loyalty program.

For the Dominican Republic, the impact of this acquisition is particularly promising. As one of the region’s most desirable destinations, the Dominican Republic stands to benefit from increased investment in tourism infrastructure, which will create more job opportunities and boost the local economy.

Transforming the all-inclusive resort landscape

Hyatt’s proven track record in luxury hospitality will undoubtedly raise service standards and elevate the guest experience in the country’s resorts, making it an even more attractive destination for affluent travelers seeking all-inclusive, hassle-free vacations. Enhanced culinary offerings, top-tier entertainment, and innovative resort amenities are all expected to contribute to a redefined vacation experience that will further distinguish the Dominican Republic as a premier luxury destination in the Caribbean.

This development is not just a financial maneuver but a transformative shift in the global hospitality landscape. As the demand for upscale, all-inclusive vacations continues to grow, major hotel brands are increasingly investing in this segment to cater to travelers who expect personalized, high-end experiences. Hyatt’s acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts is a clear signal of its intent to consolidate its leadership in the all-inclusive market, offering travelers a unique blend of sophistication, comfort, and unparalleled service.

Beyond the immediate benefits to guests, the integration of Playa’s resorts into Hyatt’s portfolio will also fortify the company’s global presence, positioning it as a formidable competitor in the luxury travel market. With this strategic move, Hyatt is not only expanding its reach but also setting new benchmarks for sustainability and eco-conscious tourism practices, ensuring that its growth aligns with responsible tourism principles.

Driving growth in the Dominican tourism sector

Hyatt’s acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts marks a turning point for luxury travel in the Caribbean, with the Dominican Republic poised to emerge as a standout beneficiary. The influx of new luxury all-inclusive options, coupled with improved infrastructure and enhanced service standards, promises to elevate the Dominican Republic’s status as a top-tier destination for discerning travelers from around the globe.

As the hospitality segment continues to evolve, this bold move by Hyatt is expected to inspire further innovation and competition, ultimately driving the entire sector toward a future of elevated luxury and exceptional guest experiences.

Among the hotels owned by Playa in the Dominican Republic are the Hilton La Romana; the Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana; the Sanctuary Cap Cana, the Wyndham Alltra Punta Cana, and the Wyndham Alltra Samaná.

POP maintains its boom in cruise ships: it will receive 64 ships in February

Puerto Plata will have a day of great tourist activity in February of this year 2025, with the arrival of 64 cruise ships that will arrive through the ports of Amber Cove and Taino Bay.

The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) reported that 23 boats will do so through Amber Cove and 41 through Taino Bay, which represents a significant boost for the region.

For this reason, Atahualpa Paulino, northern regional director of Mitur, highlighted the arrival of these vessels and highlighted the importance of maintaining Puerto Plata as a first-class tourist destination.

He also stressed that each visitor is received with the warmth of Dominican hospitality, while exploring the natural and cultural treasures of the province, creating unforgettable memories.

Italian aviation entrepreneur plans new airline for Dominican Republic route

Milán, Italy.- During his visit to the Dominican Chamber of Commerce stand at the Milan BIT 2025 Fair, Giuseppe Gentile, former owner of Air Italy, announced plans for a new airline connecting Italy and the Dominican Republic. He aims to offer improved services over previous operations, with all necessary permits expected to be secured by mid-year and flights commencing before the end of 2025.

Gentile, a pioneer in launching flights on the Italy-Dominican Republic route, expressed enthusiasm about returning to the market. Initially, the airline will operate with smaller aircraft before introducing Boeing 777s, which offer advanced technology and a 16-hour flight range. He emphasized that human error remains the main cause of aviation issues and highlighted advancements in modern aircraft technology.

Supporting open skies agreements, Gentile sees no conflict between Italy’s aviation industry and the recently signed agreement between the Dominican Republic and the United States. His project is expected to strengthen air connectivity and boost tourism between both nations.

Economist highlights strong expansion of North American hotel brands in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Cuban economist and tourism specialist José Luis Perelló highlighted that leading hotel franchises in the Dominican Republic for 2024 include major North American brands such as Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, IHG, Wyndham, St. Regis, Four Seasons, Rosewood, and Ritz-Carlton. Spanish investors, who have traditionally owned and operated hotels in the country, are now increasingly partnering with these U.S. brands for both marketing and management, marking a shift from the vertically integrated model of previous decades.

Perelló attributed this transformation to evolving travel trends and the growing dominance of U.S. and Canadian tourists, who are more familiar with North American hotel brands. This shift has influenced major investments, including the Maralda project in Miches, which will feature a 500-room beachfront resort operated by an American hotel chain.

Maralda is a large-scale development spanning over 8 million square meters in Esmeralda Beach, blending luxury, sustainability, and innovation. The project will include high-end hotels, exclusive residences, commercial spaces, and cultural attractions, reinforcing the Dominican Republic’s position as a premier tourism destination.

Dominican Republic showcases tourism offer in Argentina

Buenos Aires, Argentina.- The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) hosted its 75th Roadshow in Buenos Aires, Argentina, bringing together 600 tour operators and travel agents to strengthen ties with the Argentine market.

Tourism Minister David Collado highlighted the country’s diversified tourism offerings and new strategic agreements aimed at boosting visitor numbers. He noted that in 2024, over 272,000 Argentine tourists visited the Dominican Republic, with 85% expressing a desire to return and most exploring beyond resorts to experience the nation’s culture, music, and history.

Collado thanked Argentina for its continued support, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in enhancing tourism knowledge and experiences between both countries.

Puerto Plata implements US$1 tourist fee for city improvements

Puerto Plata.- The Puerto Plata City Council approved a new fee of one dollar per tourist visiting the city, aiming to fund the development and upkeep of tourism and urban infrastructure. The resolution, proposed by Councillor Roque de León and supported by Mayor Roquelito García, seeks to enhance the visitor experience and strengthen the destination’s appeal.

The funds collected will be used for beautification, security, and service projects in key areas such as La Puntilla, the boardwalk, Plaza Independencia, and Paseo de Doña Blanca. The fee will apply only to tourists purchasing excursions through tour operators. Local tour operators and the Tourism Department initially supported the initiative, citing its common use in other destinations.

However, the decision has sparked mixed reactions among businesses and residents, with some criticizing the lack of prior discussion and questioning whether the City Council can impose such a tax without Congressional approval. Despite concerns, estimates suggest the measure could generate between $800,000 and $1 million to maintain and clean Puerto Plata’s main tourist areas.

Aeroméxico to launch daily flights to Punta Cana

Punta Cana.- Aeroméxico Group announced its second international expansion of the year, adding three new routes from Mexico City to Cali (Colombia), Panama, and Punta Cana (Dominican Republic) starting next summer. Each destination will have daily flights operated by Boeing 737 aircraft, featuring Wi-Fi, personal screens, and advanced cabin lighting.

With this expansion, Aeroméxico will serve 16 routes across 13 countries in the Caribbean, Central, and South America, offering approximately 30,000 additional seats per month. Cali becomes the fourth Colombian city in the airline’s network, joining Bogotá, Medellín, and soon Cartagena. Known as the “World Capital of Salsa,” it offers attractions like Cristo Rey and Bulevar del Río.

Punta Cana, now directly linked to Mexico City, is famed for its white-sand beaches, luxury resorts, and natural attractions like the Ojos Indígenas Ecological Park.

Marco Rubio concludes Dominican Republic visit

Santo Domingo.- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio departed the Dominican Republic on Thursday evening after meetings with President Luis Abinader and other officials at the National Palace, marking the final stop of his regional tour. Discussions focused on the Haitian crisis, security, drug trafficking, migration, and economic opportunities in rare earths and semiconductors.

Earlier, Rubio met with Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez, who outlined the crisis in Haiti and its impact on the Dominican Republic. He also visited La Isabela International Airport to formalize the seizure of a Venezuelan government aircraft.

Rubio left the country from Las Américas International Airport under tight security, greeting staff before boarding his plane and concluding his official visit.

Puerto Plata and La Romana to receive 70% of February’s cruise arrivals

Santo Domingo.- According to the Dominican Port Authority, 70% of the cruise ships arriving in the country this February will dock at the ports of Puerto Plata and La Romana, reinforcing the steady growth of the cruise tourism industry.

Taino Bay leads in cruise arrivals with 51 ships, followed by Amber Cove with 28. Throughout the month, cruise liners carrying between 3,000 and 6,000 passengers will make daily stops, with an average of two vessels per day. Among the arriving ships are Aida Luna, Costa Fascinosa, Norwegian Epic, Scarlet Lady, Carnival Celebration, and MSC Seascape, among others.

These arrivals align with the government’s efforts to attract cruise passengers outside the traditional peak season, which runs from October to April. The influx of visitors is expected to boost local economies by driving tourism to various destinations across the country.

Senate and Tourism Ministry collaborate on ecotourism development

Santo Domingo.- Senator Ginette Bournigal, president of the Senate’s Permanent Commission on Tourism, led a meeting with Vice Minister of Tourism Patricia Mejía and other senators to discuss the designation of ecotourism provinces. A technical committee was formed to oversee the initiative and ensure effective implementation.

Bournigal emphasized that the traditional “sun, beach, and sand” tourism model is evolving, making ecotourism a key opportunity for showcasing the country’s natural resources. While laws have declared certain areas as ecotourism provinces, past efforts lacked funding and coordination with the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR). However, the government has now committed to allocating funds based on factors such as population density and infrastructure development. Provinces that did not receive funds this year will be supported in preparing for the 2026 budget cycle.

The senator stressed the importance of transparency in managing these resources and reiterated that legislators will act as supervisors rather than direct decision-makers. She also called for stricter adherence to legislative intent when implementing tourism policies, ensuring that ecotourism initiatives benefit communities across the Dominican Republic.

Ministry of Labor announces employment day in Puerto Plata for Punta Cana hotel

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Labor is inviting individuals to participate in an employment day for a hotel in Punta Cana, scheduled for Friday, January 31, in Puerto Plata. The event will run from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the National Institute for Technical and Professional Training (Infotep) in Puerto Plata, located on Prolongación Hermanas Mirabal Street (formerly the Montemar Hotel).

A total of 150 job vacancies are available across various positions, including warehouse, animation, kitchen, lodging, maintenance, restaurants, customer service, laundry, tailoring, general services, security, and spa.

Interested candidates must register online at rdtrabaja.mt.gob.do or call (809) 244-4744 or (809) 917-4745 for more information. The Ministry of Labor noted that the recruitment process may vary by company, with some positions requiring more time due to their specific nature.

Dominican Republic secures US$6,750 million in investments at FITUR 2025

Madrid, Spain.- Tourism Minister David Collado hailed the Dominican Republic’s participation in FITUR 2025 as a resounding success, with investments totaling US$6,750 million—nearly doubling last year’s US$3,500 million.

During his traditional post-event breakfast, Collado detailed the impact of these investments on the country. Banco Popular Dominicano secured US$2,500 million in agreements, Banreservas finalized deals worth US$2,000 million, and Banco BHD also achieved US$2,000 million. Proamerica, in its first participation, contributed an additional US$250 million.

These investments will result in 7,400 new hotel rooms, 713,000 additional tourists, 47,800 jobs, and US$477 million in foreign exchange earnings.

Collado also announced agreements with major airlines, including Iberia, Air Europa, Aeroméxico, and Air Transat, adding 500,000 new seats in the European market for 2025.

The minister emphasized that improving air connectivity remains the tourism cabinet’s primary goal for the year, underscoring the Dominican Republic’s successful positioning as a global tourism leader.

Dominican economy grows 5% in 2024, reports Central Bank

Santo Domingo.- In 2024, the Dominican Republic’s economy grew by 5%, in line with projections from the Central Bank and the government, reinforcing its position as a leader in Latin America among the 17 largest economies. Inflation remained within the target range of 4% ± 1%, closing the year at 3.35%, the lowest in six years.

The tourism sector saw 11.2 million visitors, with 8.5 million arriving by air and about 2.6 million by cruise. The Central Bank continued to lower its monetary policy rate, reducing it by 275 basis points since May 2023 to 5.75%. Additionally, the Monetary Board approved the release of approximately RD$35,000 million in legal reserve resources, providing liquidity to the financial system.

Private sector credit grew by 13.4%, while remittances reached a historic US$10,756  million, a 5.9% increase. Foreign direct investment (FDI) totaled US$4,512 million, exceeding US$4,000 million for the third consecutive year. Preliminary data showed foreign exchange earnings of US$43,500 million, with a 5.0% depreciation of the Dominican peso, lower than in other regional economies. International reserves reached US$13,388 million by year-end, surpassing the International Monetary Fund’s conventional metrics.

Collado: “It is essential that the Dominican Republic gets cheaper flights”

The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, reiterated in his participation in the International Tourism Fair (Fitur) 2025, that the country will focus on seeking more hotel investments, as well as on the expansion of new airlines, as he affirms that it is an “abuse” that air tickets to travel to Dominican soil are so expensive.

“What we are doing is promoting investment and then air connectivity. It is essential that the Dominican Republic gets cheaper flights. It is an abuse what happens with flights from New York, what happens with flights from Miami and Puerto Rico to the DR the fares (…) it costs you 4 and 5 thousand dollars to go to the Dominican Republic,” he criticized.

Collado indicated that the Dominican stand at Fitur is also focused on investment, adding that the country is in need of about 30,000 new rooms.

He said that the main Dominican banks present at Fitur are already having important meetings to invest in new projects, according to Z Digital.

Dominican Republic wins award for best stand at Fitur 2025

The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, recently announced that the Dominican Republic won the award for Best Standduring the International Tourism Fair (Fitur) 2025, held January 22-26 in Madrid, Spain.

“We did it again, making history in the world. The Dominican Republic once again shone here at Fitur by winning the award for the best stand at this international tourism fair,” he said.

The minister received the award parchment from Sofia Alonso, a jury member, and Angela Lozano, a fair organizing team member.

After handing over the parchment, in a ceremony that took place at the Dominican stand, both highlighted how “impressive” it was, where the beauty of the Dominican Republic can be appreciated through technology.

Collado expressed his gratitude for the distinction and pointed out that the stand exhibits a sample of the Dominican Republic’s offerings as a tourist destination.

Frank Rainieri highlights Infotep’s role in Dominican tourism growth

Madrid.- Frank Rainieri, founder of the Puntacana Group, praised the National Institute of Technical Professional Training (Infotep) for its significant contributions to the Dominican Republic’s tourism development. Speaking at Fitur 2025, Rainieri emphasized Infotep as a global example of effective collaboration between business, labor, and government in transforming lives through technical training.

Rainieri underscored the importance of aligning workforce training with the rapid expansion of hotel infrastructure, noting that improving service quality enhances the industry’s economic impact. He also highlighted Infotep’s role in projects like Punta Bergantín in Puerto Plata, which integrates local communities into tourism through training and employment opportunities.

Additionally, Rainieri commended Infotep’s efforts in preparing personnel for emerging tourist destinations such as Miches, Pedernales, and Bergantín, describing hotels as “small cities” requiring diverse technical skills. He affirmed that Infotep’s work is vital to sustaining the growth of visitor arrivals, benefiting businesses, communities, and the nation as a whole.

Dominican Republic launches sustainable gastronomic tourism initiative

Madrid.- At FITUR 2025 in Madrid, Spain, the Dominican Restaurant Association (ADERES), the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), and Banreservas, in collaboration with ASONAHORES, announced the implementation of sustainable gastronomic tourism strategies.

Designed by BCC Innovation, a leading gastronomic technology center, the initiative aims to transform the Dominican Republic’s culinary landscape over the next five years, positioning the country as the Caribbean’s gastronomic leader by 2030.

Omar Cepeda Darauche, president of ADERES, emphasized the plan’s focus on the value chain of Dominican gastronomy, integrating cultural roots, local talent, and productive capacities. He noted that gastronomy plays a vital role in the nation’s tourism and economic development, with surveys showing high tourist satisfaction—92% of visitors express a desire to return due to their positive culinary experiences.

The strategic plan, initiated in late 2023, involved nationwide research, workshops, and consultations with key stakeholders in tourism, business, and government sectors.

The strategies include defining a unique Dominican gastronomic identity, promoting local products, fostering culinary innovation, and enhancing professional training and competitiveness. Additionally, the initiative seeks to create contemporary culinary experiences that showcase the country’s diverse flavors and regions.

Supported by industry leaders and institutions, ADERES reaffirms its commitment to elevating Dominican gastronomy as a cultural and economic pillar for both locals and visitors.

CEPM unveils bold 2025 sustainable energy plans at FITUR 2025

Madrid.- The Consorcio Energético Punta Cana-Macao (CEPM) has announced ambitious plans for 2025 during the International Tourism Fair (FITUR), reinforcing its dedication to sustainable energy development and the growth of the Dominican Republic’s eastern tourism region.

As part of the CEPM Zero initiative, the company plans to expand its energy generation capacity by upgrading its Punta Cana 11 plant with four high-efficiency Wärtsilä engines, adding 37.05 MW to its grid. CEPM will also launch four solar parks with a combined capacity of 203 MWp and implement a cutting-edge energy storage system (BESS) with 115 MWh across seven strategic locations. These projects will ensure a reliable energy supply and support the rising demand from the hospitality sector.

“We are committed to sustainable development by proactively integrating renewable energy and anticipating the growth of the hotel sector,” said Rolando González Bunster, CEPM President.

Driving energy transition with renewable innovations

CEPM, a pioneer in the Dominican Republic’s sustainable energy transition, will lead the operation of four new solar parks in 2025, part of a broader portfolio of 37 photovoltaic projects totaling 270 MWp. Collaborating with 21 international hotel chains, these projects will produce 474,340 MWh of clean energy over the next 15 years, reducing CO2 emissions by 270,848 tons.

In its 32 years of operation, CEPM has invested over $1.1 billion in energy infrastructure, solidifying its role as a key driver of international investment and tourism development. Its concession area supports 65% of the nation’s hotel capacity, powering over 58,000 hotel rooms.

Looking ahead, the CEPM Zero project aims to invest $1 billion to expand renewable energy capacity to nearly 800 MW by 2030, utilizing solar, wind, green hydrogen, and advanced battery storage systems. The ultimate goal is carbon neutrality, transforming CEPM’s concession area into a sustainable tourism destination.

Innovation for tourism sustainability

CEPM has developed advanced solutions like District Energy, which reduces hotel operating costs by up to 30%. This innovative system uses waste heat from power plants to provide hot and cold water through a 14-kilometer network, benefiting more than 28,000 hotel rooms.

In 2025, CEPM will enhance its customer experience with AI-driven service platforms for over 68,000 residential, commercial, and hotel clients. The company also plans to expand its transmission and distribution networks, ensuring efficient energy delivery to meet the region’s growing needs.

About CEPM

CEPM is a leader in energy generation, transmission, distribution, and commercialization in the Dominican Republic. With over 32 years of experience, 335 MW of installed capacity, and more than 1,600 kilometers of networks, CEPM powers the majority of the nation’s hotel infrastructure, setting the standard for sustainable innovation in the tourism industry.

Dominican Republic advanced as a regional nearshoring hub in 2024

Santo Domingo.- The National Trade Facilitation Committee (CNFC) made significant strides in 2024, positioning the Dominican Republic as a strategic nearshoring hub. With 90% of its specialized working groups reactivated, the CNFC executed initiatives to enhance logistics and international trade, including over 50 follow-up meetings and strategic projects such as establishing an inter-institutional canine training center and launching the Free Trade Zones and Special Regimes Roundtable.

A key achievement was the first-ever Logistics Summit in April, organized with private-sector collaboration. The event showcased the country as a competitive logistics and supply chain hub, strengthening its international market position. Additionally, the re-election of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (AMCHAMDR) as CNFC general secretary for two more years underscored the importance of public-private partnerships.

The CNFC, tasked with implementing the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement, unites public and private stakeholders, including key ministries and business groups like CONEP and AMCHAMDR. Its efforts, highlighted by customs innovations and collaborative initiatives, reinforce the Dominican Republic’s leadership in trade facilitation, investment, and economic growth.