Abinader reaffirms support for tax exemptions in tourism

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader reiterated that his government will not support any bill seeking to eliminate existing tax exemptions, particularly those benefiting the tourism sector.

Addressing La Semanal con la Prensa, Abinader dismissed the bill introduced by legislator Rogelio Genao Lanza, emphasizing that his administration opposes the proposal and does not expect it to be approved. He reaffirmed that tax reform discussions ended after the government withdrew a similar initiative last year.

The president aligned with Minister of the Presidency José Ignacio Paliza’s stance, confirming that the Executive has no plans to introduce a new tax reform. Instead, the government remains committed to maintaining the current regulatory framework and incentives supporting key industries.

Lopesan Group to open €320 million mega-resort in Punta Cana in 2026

Punta Cana, DR.- Lopesan Group is on track to open its second mega-resort in Punta Cana in March 2026. The €320 million project is being built on a plot of land next to the Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino. It will feature over 1,000 rooms, a convention center, a water park, and a man-made cenote.

“This resort is a game-changer for the Caribbean,” said José Alba, CEO of Lopesan Hotel Group. “It will offer an unparalleled experience for our guests, with its innovative design, world-class amenities, and prime location.”

The resort is expected to create over 2,000 jobs and generate millions of euros for the local economy.

“This is a major investment in the Dominican Republic,” said President Luis Abinader. “It will help to boost our tourism sector and create new opportunities for our people.”

The Lopesan Group is a Spanish company that owns and operates over 100 hotels in Europe, the Caribbean, and North America. The company is committed to sustainable tourism and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.

Announcement at ITB Berlin

The announcement of the new resort’s opening was made at the ITB Berlin trade show, one of the world’s leading travel trade shows. Lopesan Hotel Group CEO José Alba highlighted the importance of this project for the group and for the Punta Cana destination.

Expansion plans in Gran Canaria

Lopesan Hotel Group is also looking to expand its presence in Gran Canaria. The company is currently seeking permits to build a 956-room family hotel in Meloneras. “We are committed to investing in the Canary Islands,” said José Alba. “We believe that Gran Canaria has great potential for tourism growth.” The company is working with local officials to secure the necessary permits for the project.

More about Lopesan

The new resort in Punta Cana will be the second mega-resort that Lopesan Group has opened in the Dominican Republic, demonstrating their significant commitment to the region. Beyond Punta Cana, the company is also planning to renovate the Hotel Miguel Ángel in Madrid, showing diverse investment strategies.

Lopesan Group is a family-owned company that was founded in 1972. Since its inception, the company has been committed to providing its guests with a high-quality experience across all its properties.

Report highlights Spanish investment in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Official Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Dominican Republic (CAMACOES RD) presented the report “Spanish Companies in the Dominican Republic: Strategic Allies” in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce of Spain, the Spanish Embassy, and its Economic and Commercial Office. The event, marking CAMACOES RD’s centennial, was attended by key figures, including Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs Víctor Ito Bisonó, CAMACOES RD President Francisco Pérez, and Spanish Ambassador Antonio Pérez-Hernández y Torra.

The report highlights Spain’s significant role as an investor in the Dominican Republic, particularly in tourism and energy. CAMACOES RD represents over 400 affiliated companies, with 14% being fully Spanish-owned. In 2023, Spanish investment in the country reached a record US$668.4 million, making Spain the second-largest foreign investor. Spanish companies have demonstrated long-term commitment, expanding even during economic challenges and contributing to local development.

Minister Bisonó praised Spanish investment as essential to the Dominican Republic’s economic growth, attributing its success to macroeconomic stability and a favorable business environment.

Abinader and Nadal launch first Rafa Nadal Tennis Academy in the Americas

Punta Cana.- President Luis Abinader led the symbolic ceremony marking the start of construction for the first Rafa Nadal Tennis Academy in Punta Cana, a project set to enhance luxury and sports tourism in the Dominican Republic. This will be the first Nadal academy in the Americas, further strengthening the country’s appeal as a top-tier destination.

Accompanied by Rafael Nadal, Meliá Hotels International CEO Gabriel Escarrer, Tourism Minister David Collado, and Sports Minister Kelvin Cruz, Abinader praised Nadal’s investment in tourism and sports. He emphasized that such partnerships should inspire further foreign investment, particularly from Spain, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tourism and economic growth.

The academy, designed as a Tennis Centre with a social club rather than a replica of the Mallorca facility, is part of an agreement between Nadal and Meliá Hotels. It follows the recent inauguration of the Zel Punta Cana hotel, first announced at the FITUR 2024 tourism fair.

Port Authority director highlights growth of cruise sector in Pedernales

Pedernales.- Jean Luis Rodríguez, Director of the Dominican Port Authority, addressed the second edition of “Tourism and Attractions 2025” in Pedernales, emphasizing the significant impact of the cruise sector on the province’s economy. He highlighted the transformation of the Cabo Rojo port into a cruise terminal, which has fueled exponential growth in visitor arrivals.

Rodríguez noted that cruise passenger arrivals in the Dominican Republic have surged from 1.1 million in 2019 to nearly 2.8 million today, marking a 145% growth. In 2024, over 20,000 passengers visited Cabo Rojo, contributing US$2 million to the local economy. By 2025, this number is expected to rise to over 100,000 visitors, generating $15 million in revenue for the region.

The director also pointed out the capacity of the Cabo Rojo terminal to accommodate large ships, such as the Oasis-class vessels, and the confirmation of four new cruise lines for 2025. He stressed the importance of promoting Pedernales as a top Caribbean destination and forecasted the port could reach one million passengers by 2028 with continued growth.

Costa Cruises adds Santo Domingo as embarkation port

Santo Domingo.- Costa Cruises has officially announced the inclusion of Santo Domingo as a new embarkation port for its 2025-2026 Caribbean itineraries. The addition, celebrated aboard the Costa Fascinosa in La Romana, offers greater connectivity and flexibility for guests from North and South America.

From December 2025 to March 2026, Costa Fascinosa will operate eight-day itineraries departing from Santo Domingo, with stops in Barbados, Tortola, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Guadeloupe, and Martinique. Most voyages will also feature a visit to Costa’s private island, Catalina Island. Additionally, Costa Pacifica will offer Caribbean cruises ranging from 8 to 16 days, departing from La Romana and Guadeloupe.

The announcement event was led by Costa Cruises executives and local authorities, including Dario Rustico, General Manager for North and South America, and Fernando Joselevich, Country Manager for Argentina and Latin America.

President Abinader highlights economic growth in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader presented key economic indicators showing the Dominican Republic’s economic strength and growth. Employment rose from 4.7 million in 2019 to over 5 million in 2024, with women’s workforce participation increasing from 43.4% to 49.5%.

General poverty fell to 19%, the lowest in the country’s history, while extreme poverty dropped to 2.4%. The nation’s country risk stands at 200 basis points, lower than several investment-grade nations. Credit ratings for Q3 2024 reflect positive outlooks: Fitch Ratings (BB- Positive), Moody’s (BA3 Positive), and Standard & Poor’s (BB Stable).

Foreign trade has also expanded, with exports reaching US$13,853 million in 2024, up from US$11,192.7  million in 2019. The president shared these insights during the Semanal con la Prensa at the National Palace, emphasizing the economy’s resilience and global investor confidence.

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.