dominican republic tourism numbers

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Travel and tourism in the Dominican Republic – statistics & facts

Cruise tourism, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Hospitality GDP in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022

Tax revenue from tourism in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022

Tourism employment in the Dominican Republic 2019-2022

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Current statistics on this topic.

Hotel occupancy in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022

Inbound tourism volume in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022, by transport mode

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Recommended statistics

• Premium Statistic Tourism revenue in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022
• Basic Statistic Tourism employment in the Dominican Republic 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Tourism development in the Dominican Republic 2019-2021
• Premium Statistic Tourism development in the Dominican Republic 2021, by pillar
• Premium Statistic Hotel occupancy in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022

Tourism revenue in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022

Revenue of the tourism sector in the Dominican Republic from 2010 to 2022 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Number of travel and tourism jobs in the Dominican Republic from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Tourism development in the Dominican Republic 2019-2021

Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) in the Dominican Republic in 2019 and 2021

Tourism development in the Dominican Republic 2021, by pillar

Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) in the Dominican Republic in 2021, by pillar

Occupancy rate of hotels and similar establishments in the Dominican Republic from 2010 to 2022

International tourism

• Premium Statistic Inbound air travelers in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022, by residence status
• Premium Statistic Travel spending of inbound visitors in the Dominican Republic 2010-2021, by purpose
• Premium Statistic Per capita daily spend of inbound visitors in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Air departures by residents of the Dominican Republic 2010-2022, by type
• Premium Statistic Outbound tourism spending of Dominican travelers 2010-2021, by main category
• Premium Statistic Per capita outbound tourism spending in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022

Inbound air travelers in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022, by residence status

Number of international air passengers in the Dominican Republic from 2010 to 2022, by residence status (in 1,000s)

Travel spending of inbound visitors in the Dominican Republic 2010-2021, by purpose

Travel expenditure of international tourists in the Dominican Republic from 2010 to 2021, by travel purpose (in million U.S. dollars)

Per capita daily spend of inbound visitors in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022

Average daily expenditure of international tourists in the Dominican Republic from 2010 to 2022 (in U.S. dollars)

Air departures by residents of the Dominican Republic 2010-2022, by type

Number of air passenger departures by residents in the Dominican Republic from 2010 to 2022, by type (in 1,000s)

Outbound tourism spending of Dominican travelers 2010-2021, by main category

Expenditure of international tourists from the Dominican Republic from 2010 to 2021, by main category (in million U.S. dollars)

Per capita outbound tourism spending in the Dominican Republic 2010-2022

Average expenditure per trip by international travelers from the Dominican Republic from 2010 to 2022 (in U.S. dollars)

• Premium Statistic Inbound cruise travelers in the Dominican Republic 2019-2022, by port
• Premium Statistic Yachts and cruise ships arriving in the Dominican Republic 2018-2022
• Premium Statistic Average cruise traveler spend per person in the Dominican Republic 2012-2022
• Premium Statistic Most visited protected natural zones in the Dominican Republic 2022
• Basic Statistic Category scores for the Dominican Republic's Gay Travel Index 2023

Inbound cruise travelers in the Dominican Republic 2019-2022, by port

Number of cruise passengers arriving in the Dominican Republic from 2019 to 2022, by port (in 1,000s)

Yachts and cruise ships arriving in the Dominican Republic 2018-2022

Number of yacht and cruise ship calls in the Dominican Republic from 2018 to 2022

Average cruise traveler spend per person in the Dominican Republic 2012-2022

Average per capita expenditure of cruise passengers in the Dominican Republic from 2012 to 2022 (in U.S. dollars)

Most visited protected natural zones in the Dominican Republic 2022

Leading conservation areas in the Dominican Republic in 2nd quarter 2022, by number of visitors

Category scores for the Dominican Republic's Gay Travel Index 2023

Gay Travel Index in the Dominican Republic in 2023, by category

• Premium Statistic Portfolio of selected hotel groups in the Dominican Republic 2023
• Premium Statistic Main air carriers in the Dominican Republic 2022, by international passenger traffic
• Premium Statistic Most admired travel agencies in the Dominican Republic 2021
• Premium Statistic Most admired touristic real estate companies in the Dominican Republic 2021
• Premium Statistic Most admired food delivery companies in the Dominican Republic 2021

Portfolio of selected hotel groups in the Dominican Republic 2023

Number of hotels of selected companies in the Dominican Republic as of October 2023

Main air carriers in the Dominican Republic 2022, by international passenger traffic

Leading international airlines in the Dominican Republic in 2022, based on number of passengers (in 1,000s)

Most admired travel agencies in the Dominican Republic 2021

Leading travel agencies in the Dominican Republic in 2021, based on admiration index

Most admired touristic real estate companies in the Dominican Republic 2021

Leading companies developing touristic real estate projects in the Dominican Republic in 2021, based on admiration index

Most admired food delivery companies in the Dominican Republic 2021

Leading companies in the food delivery industry in the Dominican Republic in 2021, based on admiration index

Opinions and preferences

• Premium Statistic Reasons why foreign tourists visited the Dominican Republic 2022
• Premium Statistic Main promoters of tourism in the Dominican Republic 2022
• Premium Statistic Quality of Dominican tourism services according to foreign visitors 2022
• Premium Statistic Price evaluation of tourism services by visitors in the Dominican Republic 2022

Reasons why foreign tourists visited the Dominican Republic 2022

Main reasons for international visitors to have chosen the Dominican Republic as a destination in 2022

Main promoters of tourism in the Dominican Republic 2022

Channels through which international tourists discovered the Dominican Republic as a destination in 2022

Quality of Dominican tourism services according to foreign visitors 2022

Evaluation by international tourists of the quality of tourism services in the Dominican Republic in 2022

Price evaluation of tourism services by visitors in the Dominican Republic 2022

Evaluation of tourism service prices by international tourists in the Dominican Republic in 2022

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Dominican Republic Sets New Record with 10 Million Visitors in 2023

Key takeaways.

• Achieving a Tourism Milestone in 2023 : A groundbreaking achievement in tourism for the Dominican Republic.
• The Strategic Collaboration Behind the Success : The synergy between the public and private sectors fueling this success.
• Analyzing the Visitor Statistics : An in-depth look at the numbers behind the milestone.
• Economic Impact of Tourism Surge : How this influx of tourists has benefited the Dominican economy.
• Dominican Republic’s Tourism Growth in the Caribbean Context : The Dominican Republic’s place in Caribbean tourism post-COVID.
• Celebrating the Landmark 10 Millionth Visitor : The significance of the 10 millionth visitor’s arrival.
• Nationwide Celebrations: Reflecting National Pride : The significance of nationwide celebrations.

Achieving a Tourism Milestone in 2023

Record-breaking visitor numbers.

December 26, 2023, marked a historic day for the Dominican Republic as it welcomed its 10 millionth visitor of the year. This achievement not only signifies a new record for the nation but also sets a precedent for tourism in the entire Caribbean region. The milestone reflects the enduring appeal of destinations such as Punta Cana, renowned for its beaches, which continue to draw visitors from across the globe ( Exploring the Best Beaches in Punta Cana ).

Click here to download the full Dominican 2023 Tourism Report .

Significance of 10 Million Visitors

Reaching this number is not just a numerical achievement but a testament to the Dominican Republic’s resilience and growth in the tourism sector. It highlights the country’s ability to attract a diverse range of visitors, from those seeking luxury villa rentals in areas like Casa de Campo ( Luxury Villa Rental in Casa de Campo: A Guide ) to adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts.

The Strategic Collaboration Behind the Success

Partnership between public and private sectors.

Tourism Minister David Collado attributed this success to the strategic efforts and collaboration between the public and private sectors. This partnership has been crucial in enhancing the country’s tourism infrastructure and marketing, drawing more visitors each year.

Role of Tourism Policies and Initiatives

Under the guidance of President Luis Abinader, significant initiatives have been implemented to boost the tourism sector. These include improving accessibility to popular areas like Cap Cana, home to some of the most beautiful villas in the region ( 11 Most Beautiful Villas in Cap Cana ), and enhancing the overall tourist experience.

Analyzing the Visitor Statistics

The Dominican Republic’s tourism sector achieved a remarkable feat in 2023, with over 10 million visitors gracing its shores. This influx included a significant number of air travelers and cruisers, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere in destinations like Punta Cana. The blend of pristine beaches and rich cultural experiences, like those found in Casa de Campo, played a pivotal role in attracting a diverse international audience.

Tourism in Numbers

To provide a clearer picture of this achievement, here’s a snapshot of tourism statistics:

This table provides an overview of the significant growth in tourism arrivals in the Dominican Republic, culminating in the remarkable figure of over 10 million visitors in 2023.

This remarkable growth trajectory is not just about numbers; it’s about the stories and experiences each visitor brings and takes away from the Dominican Republic.

Need Assistance Planning Your Dream Vacation?

Our team at Simply Dominican is here to make your travel dreams a reality.

Economic Impact of Tourism Surge

Tourism stands as a cornerstone of the Dominican Republic’s economy, contributing an estimated 20% to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The sector’s expansion has sparked a significant increase in job opportunities, especially in areas like Cap Cana, where luxury real estate and hospitality services are in high demand.

Bolstering the Local Economy

The surge in tourism has had a ripple effect, benefiting various sectors from hospitality to construction . This economic boom is not just confined to major cities but is also felt in rural areas, where tourism has become a key driver of growth and development.

Dominican Republic’s Tourism Growth in the Caribbean Context

The Dominican Republic’s tourism success story is unmatched in the Caribbean. The nation’s strategy to revitalize its tourism industry post-COVID has set a benchmark for others in the region. This success is a result of a concerted effort to enhance visitor experiences and the continuous development of tourism infrastructure .

A Regional Leader in Tourism

Ranking third in the Americas for tourist arrivals, just behind Mexico and Canada, the Dominican Republic’s strategic approach has positioned it as a top destination for travelers seeking a blend of luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion.

Celebrating the Landmark 10 Millionth Visitor

The arrival of the 10 millionth visitor, Ariana Guilak from California, marked a celebratory moment for the Dominican Republic. Her choice to explore the Dominican Republic for its climate and beaches is reflective of the allure that attracts millions to the country annually.

A Symbolic Celebration

This milestone was celebrated across the nation, with festivities not just at the Punta Cana International Airport but also at other major airports and cruise terminals, highlighting the nationwide pride in this achievement.

Nationwide Celebrations: Reflecting National Pride

• Celebrations at key airports like Las Américas and Cibao International Airports.
• Festivities at cruise terminals such as Taino Bay and Amber Cove, Puerto Plata, showcasing the country’s rich maritime heritage.
• Community involvement in cultural showcases, emphasizing the Dominican Republic’s diverse cultural tapestry.

Integrating Tourism with Local Culture

FAQs Section

What contributed to the dominican republic’s success in reaching 10 million tourists.

Strategic collaborations between the public and private sectors, enhanced tourism infrastructure, and effective marketing strategies.

How does tourism impact the Dominican economy?

Tourism contributes significantly to the GDP, creating job opportunities, and stimulating growth in various sectors, including real estate and hospitality.

What are some must-visit destinations in the Dominican Republic for first-time visitors?

Punta Cana for its beaches, Casa de Campo for luxury experiences, and the capital Santo Domingo for historical and cultural exploration.

Are there opportunities for real estate investment in tourist areas like Punta Cana?

Yes, there are ample opportunities, with options ranging from luxury villas to beachfront properties. For more details, visit Can I Buy a House in the Dominican Republic?

What makes the Dominican Republic a unique Caribbean destination?

Its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, warm climate, and the combination of modern amenities with natural beauty.

How has the Dominican Republic’s tourism industry recovered post-COVID?

Through targeted recovery strategies, enhanced safety protocols, and by adapting to new travel trends.

What types of accommodations are available for tourists in the Dominican Republic?

Options range from luxury resorts and villas to budget-friendly hotels. For villa rentals in Punta Cana, see How Much is it to Rent a Villa in Punta Cana?

Can tourists participate in local cultural events and activities?

Absolutely. The Dominican Republic offers a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

What are the top culinary experiences in the Dominican Republic?

A diverse culinary scene ranging from local Dominican dishes to international cuisine.

What future goals does the Dominican Republic have for its tourism sector?

The goal is to reach 15 million tourists by 2030, focusing on sustainable and inclusive growth.

What is there more kindly than the feeling between host and guest?

Tourism in the Dominican Republic

Development of the tourism sector in the dominican republic from 1995 to 2021.

Revenues from tourism

All data for the Dominican Republic in detail

The Dominican Republic Has Seen Record-Setting Tourism Numbers. Here's Why

A risky COVID-19 strategy paid off, boosting the island's economy

Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images

Have you noticed that everyone is taking a trip to the Dominican Republic lately? The island nation has always been a popular vacation destination. Still, visitor numbers boomed to all-time highs while other Caribbean countries struggled to stay afloat during the pandemic. By February 2021, around seven months after borders reopened, flight bookings to the Dominican Republic surpassed 2019 levels and have only continued to grow, according to insights from the Mastercard Economics Institute 2022 Travel Trend Report .

The boom in bookings is due, in large part, to a risky approach toward luring travelers. Instead of enforcing masking, vaccination, and testing requirements for visitors, officials focused on vaccinations and mask compliance among service industry workers. “We knew it was a risk, and we wanted to take it,” Jacqueline Mora, deputy minister of tourism, told the New York Times in January. 

The risk paid off—big time. Bookings have stayed far above 2019 levels and have seen more than 100 percent increases in April, May, and June of 2021 and in April 2022. In terms of revenue, that totals out to more than $5.7 billion in 2021 while maintaining a relatively low rate of COVID 19-related deaths. Compare that with Canada, a historically popular vacation destination for U.S. travelers. The country took a more tempered approach to reopen its borders, waiting until summer 2021 to welcome vaccinated tourists. Flight bookings immediately started to increase, but by April 2022, numbers were still lagging 17 percent below comparable 2019 levels despite Canada being the second most popular destination for North American travelers.

Regardless of how effective safety measures like showing proof of vaccination may or may not be when it comes to curbing infection rates, many Americans are tired of pandemic-era restrictions—especially when they’re on vacation, so it comes as no surprise that the Dominican Republic has become such a hot destination for travelers from the U.S.

After two years of a pandemic, people feel desperate for a vacation. So desperate that even rampant inflation won’t stop them. Or at least not entirely. While a WalletHub survey revealed that inflation had impacted travel for 58 percent of Americans, 41 percent more people would be willing to go further into debt to take a vacation in 2022 than last year. “After two-plus years of pandemic living, many Americans are clinging to the idea of making up for lost time, and if some interest charges and possibly a late fee are part of the price of making a long-awaited getaway happen, so be it,” said Delaney Simchuk, an analyst for WalletHub.

This summer is shaping up to be one of blow-out vacations, setting up destinations with minimal COVID-19 restrictions to rake in millions of dollars.

Mastercard Economics Institute. " Travel 2022: Trends & Transitions ." May 18, 2022.

New York Times. " Why Is Everyone Going to the Dominican Republic? " Jan. 27, 2022.

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UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

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Dominican Republic Among UNWTO Members Reporting Strong Tourism Rebound

UNWTO has warmly welcomed the first data on summer arrivals from its Member States.

As international travel returns in many parts of the world, several Members are starting to report strong numbers both for arrivals and tourist spending. This is in spite of the fact the sector continues to face a number of challenges, among them the ongoing pandemic, rising interest rates and cost of living levels, and heightened economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

From the Dominican Republic, Minister of Tourism David Collado, has advised UNWTO of record arrival numbers for April, May, June and July. Notably, arrivals in July were 24% higher than in 2019, putting the country on course for its best year on record, including in terms of sales taxes and income generation. In response, UNWTO has sent its congratulations to the Minister and commends the Dominican Republic for its strong and ongoing support for tourism. UNWTO also notes the invaluable contribution of the private sector, as exemplified by the Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic (ASONAHORES), which is currently celebrating its 60th anniversary.

This growth comes even as destinations across the Dominican Republic continue to miss tourists from Russia and Ukraine, two historically strong source markets. In recognition of its leading status as a resilient destination, the Dominican Republic was the focus of the first UNWTO Investment Guidelines publication, released at the start of 2022. Developed alongside the Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic and the national Export and Investment Center (PRODOMINICANA), the new guide provides key insights for investors, with the aim of boosting foreign direct investment in the Caribbean destination.

The Dominican Republic will also host the 118th session of the UNWTO Executive Council in the first quarter of 2023.

Related Links

• Download the news release in PDF
• UNWTO Regional Department for the Americas
• International Tourism Consolidates Strong Recovery Amidst Growing Challenges
• Tourism Doing Business Investing in Dominican Republic

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The Dominican Republic continues to break tourism records in 2023

The Dominican Republic received over 7 million tourists throughout its summer season, predominantly from the United States, Canada, and Spain

SANTO DOMINGO – As the Caribbean’s summer season draws to a close, the Dominican Republic celebrates another highly successful year as a top tourist destination. It has continued to exceed its annual tourism forecasts, welcoming 7 million visitors in the first three quarters of the year – a 25% increase over 2022.

Just over 782,000 tourists visited the country in August, making it the best one in Dominican history. The Caribbean nation is now South America’s second-largest tourist destination, setting a clear benchmark for its neighbors.

Based on past trends and experiences, the Dominican Ministry of Tourism expects to welcome 10 million visitors by the end of the year. This would make 2023 the first time in its history that it has hit double-digits, nearly reaching a one-to-one ratio of tourists to citizens.

ForwardKeys , a leading tourism trend analysis firm, supports this bright outlook as well. Its most recent airline ticketing trends suggest Q4 will see significant growth throughout the Caribbean when compared to 2019, the last pre-pandemic year. The Dominican Republic is predicted to show the highest growth, at 54%. In fact, the Dominican Republic has shown the most post-pandemic tourism growth of any nation in the Americas, with 2023 showing strong signs of achieving a 10% increase over 2019.

The firm’s results also confirm that the United States, Canada, Colombia, France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom are responsible for a combined total of 81% of tourism to the Dominican Republic in 2023 thus far. Hotel occupancy data confirms this, with visitors staying an average of eight days.

While air travel remains the method of choice for reaching the island nation, the cruise segment made a strong showing in the first few months of the year and has remained a key element of the Dominican Republic’s current numbers. Over 1.5 million people YTD have traveled through the country’s ports, such as Puerto Plata and La Romana. Starting in December, the new destination of Pedernales will be open as well.

A safe, hospitable destination

“The summer is always an interesting benchmark for our country,” shared Dominican Tourism Minister David Collado . “Based on our current numbers, we’re heading for a new milestone. Summer is always a popular travel season with many attractive options – such as many European countries. But despite the competition, the Dominican Republic has remained a preferred destination for travelers from both Europe and North America. Clearly, in addition to our warm climate, our security and great hospitality make us an attractive tourist destination.”

The country’s dynamic and growing tourism sector has retaken its place as a key pillar of the Dominican economy in the post-pandemic world, thanks largely to the foreign currency it brings in and the jobs it creates. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the Dominican tourism sector will generate 17.5% of national employment and represent 15.3% of its economy by the end of 2023. And, as the sector’s supply chain is almost entirely (90%) made up of Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), its success and power are reflected in the country’s local businesses as well.

Vicky Karantzavelou

Vicky  is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the  Editor-in Chief . She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.

She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.

• Vicky Karantzavelou https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/vicky-karantzavelou/ Finnair temporarily suspends flights to Tartu due to GPS interference
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Why Is Everyone Going to the Dominican Republic?

The country is a rare pandemic success story, with recent visitor numbers far surpassing those of most other Caribbean destinations. Easy entry rules are a draw, but some residents are uneasy.

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By Heather Murphy

Some had come for the beach, some had come for the sun, others had picked it because, at the time, the Covid numbers seemed reasonable. Many had chosen it over resort destinations because getting there seemed easy. Still others liked the idea of not having to take a test to enter the country.

Together, they made up around 25 of the mostly American, Canadian and British guests enjoying the “Preferred Club” adults-only pool at Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana on a recent weekend, even as Omicron drove coronavirus cases to record highs in the Dominican Republic.

The pool, which is roughly 10 lounge chairs wide, offered a peaceful retreat from the boisterous main pool, which snakes out from the buffet to the sandy stretch of coastline the resort shares with around 90 other all-inclusives.

In the Preferred area, a teacher from Chicago quietly read a book as new resort friends from Michigan and Ontario chatted about whether the woman hanging out on her room’s private terrace about three lounge chairs away, was quarantining. They were pretty certain she was, given that she had not left her room for days. This was a bummer. So, too, was the fact that at least three other Preferred guests had tested positive since they’d arrived.

Still, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.

They, along with all the other visitors who filled the majority of Punta Cana’s roughly 42,000 hotel rooms that January weekend, were part of what many consider a rare pandemic tourism success story. In December the Dominican Republic drew 700,000 visitors from abroad, more than it had attracted not only before the pandemic, but in any single month ever, according to the Ministry of Tourism. That pushed 2021 totals to nearly five million visitors, more than any other country in the Caribbean. In December, some financial analysts calculated that the country was having its best year economically in 30 years.

And Punta Cana isn’t the only getaway that’s booming in the Dominican Republic. Las Terrenas, a small seaside town that tends to attract a crowd that despises all-inclusives, has exploded in popularity during the pandemic.

The Dominican Republic’s visitor figures have to do, in part, with its unconventional strategy for gaining a competitive advantage. Unlike most Caribbean beach destinations, the country doesn’t require proof of vaccination, a Covid test or quarantine for most incoming travelers. Instead, authorities have chosen to manage Covid by pushing vaccination and mask wearing among those who interact with tourists. Nearly 100 percent of the 174,000 people who work in the tourism sector are vaccinated, according to the Ministry of Tourism. And though all-inclusive resorts require only a reservation to enter, many banks, government institutions and some shopping malls require proof of vaccination or a recent P.C.R. test.

“We knew it was a risk and we wanted to take it,” Jacqueline Mora, the deputy minister of tourism, said in a recent phone interview. The strategy has worked, she added, noting that the country estimates that it earned around $5.7 billion from tourism last year while maintaining a Covid death rate lower not only than Mexico, the other major beach destination to take a similarly lax approach to entry, but also many far more restrictive countries, including the United States.

Until recently, few pushed back. But as Omicron has driven Covid rates up by several hundred percent in the Dominican Republic (now categorized as Level 4, or “very high” risk, on the C.D.C.’s rating system), infecting many vaccinated people, long-simmering resentments about letting tourists get away with so much have surfaced among some doctors, politicians and resort employees.

In early January, more than a dozen lawmakers endorsed a proposal, supported by the president of the Colegio Médico, the Dominican Republic’s largest association of doctors, urging President Luis Abinader to require recent tests and proof of vaccination from visitors. The resolution calls the current policy “discriminatory,” given that “Dominican residents have to carry a vaccination card or recent negative P.C.R. test, while visitors don’t face the same requirements to enter Dominican territory.” On Jan. 31, the government is requiring banks, shopping centers, restaurants and other public transport to ask for proof that customers have been boosted. Airports and all-inclusive resorts will not be affected.

In Punta Cana, off with the masks

Australia had been their first pick, but the borders there were still closed to visitors, said Michael Rogers, 28, an event planner from London, who was celebrating a belated honeymoon in Punta Cana.

“We’re the guinea pigs for our family. If we don’t get it,” he said, referring to Omicron, “they’ll all go on holidays.”

Behind him, people were checking into Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana. In 2021, nearly half of the foreign tourists who went to the Dominican Republic stayed in Punta Cana, at places like Dreams or the Iberostar Grand Bávaro on popular Playa Bávaro. Each one of the area’s 90 or so all-inclusive resorts is a bit different: Some are fratty party hubs, others are minimalist wonders. Some serve stale rolls. Some serve towers of fresh ceviche. Some cater to Americans, who made up nearly 60 percent of all visitors to the Dominican Republic last year. Others court Europeans, Latin Americans and Canadians who made up most of the other 40 percent.

The 500-room Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana falls somewhere in the middle in terms of price and Tripadvisor ratings. On a recent Friday, staff members scanned visitors’ temperatures upon arrival and offered spritzes of hand sanitizer along with a glass of champagne. By check-in, many guests were no longer wearing their plane masks, but it was nearly impossible to find a staff member who was letting their nose peek out. This was the first hint that guests and employees follow different rules.

This generally works for the guests.

“We’ve been dealing with it for two years straight and sometimes you just want to throw in the towel and live a little,” said Cara McQueeney, 27, a mental health worker from Concord, N.H., as she and her boyfriend awaited their final beachside dinner. She was not trying to be careless; she’d been avoiding buffets. But she was glad that she didn’t have to wear a mask.

Dealing with Covid feels more reasonable in the Dominican Republic, said Gaelle Berthault, 45, later that weekend. She, her husband and 9-year-old son had moved to Santo Domingo from Brittany early in the pandemic because they were so fed up with the restrictions they faced at the time in France, she said while sitting on the porch of a turquoise cabana in Las Terrenas on the country’s northern coast. She resented having to carry a government-issued permission slip on her walks, which she had to limit to one a day.

“It felt like war time,” she said.

Since she found a new job in Santo Domingo, she feels freer. On the weekends, her family explores coastal towns like Las Terrenas, where her son might spend the morning splashing in the pool of a boutique hotel before venturing to a beach. In Santo Domingo, public buses sometimes require proof of vaccination, but she has never taken one.

A challenging time

The arrival of the virus had come at a terrible time for the Dominican Republic’s tourism industry. In March 2020, when the World Health Organization upgraded the epidemic to a pandemic, the country had just recovered from a different crisis. In 2019, 10 American tourists had died there, several mysteriously passing away in their sleep. Ultimately, the F.B.I. deemed that the incidents weren’t connected, but it was not good publicity. Visitor numbers fell by 9 percent, according to Ms. Mora. And then, just as they bounced back, the pandemic shuttered its borders.

For the 174,000 people who work directly in the tourism sector it was a challenging time. Though the government gave them money, a number of workers, including a maid, butler, server and concierge, calculated that they took home one quarter to one half of what they normally made.

When the country opened back up to tourists in July 2020, authorities briefly required visitors to show the results of a recent test. Then in August, President Abinader, who has a long history in the tourism industry, took office. The strategy began to revolve around making entry as easy as possible. Through last April, the country offered to cover the costs of medical care, lodging and flight changes, should guests fall sick with Covid. The airport did continue testing some visitors randomly, a policy that continues, according to the Ministry of Tourism.

To this day, most other Caribbean nations require proof of vaccination, test results and, in some cases, quarantine, and they also may restrict hotel bookings to 30 or 50 percent capacity to mitigate viral spread, according to Michael Lowery, the executive vice president of consumer business for Apple Leisure Group, which owns Dreams resorts and CheapCaribbean.com, a vacation booking platform used by millions. He said that the Dominican Republic has been one of the two most popular destinations for his company during the pandemic — behind Mexico — because travelers don’t want to deal with restrictions and because resorts fill up their rooms, keeping prices reasonable.

“They’ve done a good job of keeping their borders open and allowing 100 percent occupancy in all the resorts,” he said.

Large groups, even bigger than before, began to flock to the Dominican Republic, said TJ Murray, the owner of Punta Cana Tours , a booking site.

Couples who might not have considered the Dominican Republic previously for a destination wedding began to see it as a sure thing for guests traveling from across the world, said Jennifer Collado, the owner of a wedding and events agency based in Punta Cana.

The turnaround

By August 2021, about a year after the Dominican Republic reopened to tourism, you might have noticed something intriguing if you happened to be looking at Kayak.com’s flight trends. For more than a month, destinations in just one country consistently displayed green, meaning they had generated more search interest than they had two years earlier: the Dominican Republic.

September, November and December were good months for the country. Tourism numbers surpassed prepandemic levels, and coronavirus case counts stayed low, typically hovering between 100 and 300 daily. But then Omicron hit. On Jan. 12, a record 7,439 people tested positive in the Dominican Republic, far more than any other day during the pandemic. On Dec. 29, the country also reported eight Covid-related deaths, more than it had seen in a single day in months.

“The hospitals are full; children, old people, everyone, sick with Covid,” said Dr. Senén Caba, the president of the Colegio Médico.

He blamed the government’s lax entry policy for the suffering. Though people who work in the tourism sector may be largely young, healthy and vaccinated, they can still transmit the virus to family members and others. (Only 54 percent of the population overall is fully vaccinated.)

According to the tourism ministry the spike is not a reason to adjust the country’s approach.

“Omicron is everywhere,” and testing requirements offer countries little more than the illusion of security, Ms. Mora said. Willie Walsh, the director general of the International Air Transport Association, a trade organization representing nearly 300 airlines, echoed this argument in a recent statement.

Asked if interacting with potentially contagious visitors all day made him nervous, Maiken Mercedes, a server at Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana, said, “What gives me fear is not the virus, it’s not making money for my family.” Other employees in the hospitality industry also expressed concerns that more restrictions would mean fewer guests.

But there has to be a way to encourage responsible tourism, said Ivan Lorenzo, a senator for the Dominican province of Elías Piña, which shares a border with Haiti.

“We cannot rationalize the human losses with what we generate economically,” he said.

Neither he nor several hospitality workers interviewed were convinced that requiring tests would derail the country’s growth. In fact, some found the suggestion that the lax policy is what’s drawing people to the Dominican Republic insulting.

The dreaded end-of-vacation test

No matter how much they try not to think about the coronavirus, at the end of the day, visitors have to think about it because the United States, Canada and many other countries require a test to re-enter.

For Kelly Lynn Gasper, 57, a behavioral health nurse from Oakley, Mich., the possibility was particularly nerve-wracking because early in her one-week visit with her 18-year-old daughter to Punta Cana, she’d started to feel like she was coming down with something. She took two rapid tests she’d brought and tested positive twice, she said.

Ms. Gasper was conflicted about how to proceed, but ultimately opted not to spend her whole vacation in her room, instead upping her mask wearing and avoiding indoor spaces. As her daughter, Caitlyn Gasper, who’d already had Omicron back home, pointed out, other people were probably positive around her, but didn’t know it, so why should she be penalized for testing positive?

Much to her relief, Ms. Gasper tested negative that morning at the resort clinic. The results had come so fast — within a couple of minutes, instead of the 15 that is more typical — she had wondered about their accuracy.

Kris Milavec, 59, of Concord Township, Ohio, did not share Ms. Gasper’s skepticism, because earlier that day her husband and one other member of her group of nearly 20 had quickly tested positive and were now stuck in their rooms.

As to whether it was worth it, given that her husband, an anesthesiologist who was expected back at the hospital, was apparently stuck abroad, Ms. Milavec paused.

“I don’t think it was worth it,” she said as the rest of the group posed for poolside photos in their matching white outfits.

Enzo Conte, the owner of a software company in Quebec, would also prefer not to get Omicron. But if he’s going to get it, he said, it might as well be while he’s staying at a beachside villa in the Dominican Republic. Since early December, he has been alternately vacationing and working remotely from Las Terrenas.

Should he test positive, he said, “I’ll just stay a little longer.”

Hogla Enecia Pérez contributed research from Santo Domingo.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

Heather Murphy is a reporter on the Travel desk. She welcomes tips, questions and complaints about traveling during the pandemic. More about Heather Murphy

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Dominican Republic Tourism Statistics

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A New Beach Resort Is Coming to This Tiny Island in The Bahamas 

“Historic” Tourism Numbers Continue in Dominican Republic 

The Dominican Republic’s “historic” tourism arrivals continue to grow, according to new numbers from the country’s Ministry of Tourism. 

The Dominican Republic reported 478,794 stayover arrivals in September, a whopping 48 percent increase over the same month in 2019, before the pandemic. 

That also represented an 11 percent jump compared to September 2022. 

“These are historic numbers, which are felt in the economy and, best of all, this growth is unstoppable,” said Dominican Republic Tourism Minister David Collado. 

The country’s burgeoning cruise industry is also seeing strong growth, with 67,196 passengers arriving in September. 

The combined figures total 7.6 million, itself a record for the first nine months of a year in the country. 

Collado said the country is projecting 10 million combined tourists by the end of 2023. 

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Last update on May 1, 2024, 8:23 am

Economy September 12, 2022 | 2:04 pm

Dominican Republic recorded record number of tourist visits in August with 621,953, says the Government

Tourists in the Colonial Zone. Jorge Gonzalez

Santo Domingo – The Government informed this Sunday that in August, the country reached the historic record figure of 621,953 tourists and that in the eight months of this year, a total of 5.66 million visitors were received.

It was explained that if the 621,953 tourists arriving in August are added to the 94,792 cruise passengers who visited the country last month, a total of 716,745 visitors are obtained.

These data were released during a ceremony led by the President of the Dominican Republic.

In his speech, the President said that tourism in the country is growing faster than in the rest of the world, which, he said, consolidates us as leaders.

He affirmed that the commitment and ambition of this government are to continue growing and making the Dominican Republic a larger and more dynamic nation.

“Today we can highlight that the month of August was the best month in the historical series in our country, breaking a record that month after month we are surpassing.”

In this regard, he specified that even when we have always had an adverse context, we have been able to shine in the tourism sector.

“Tourism means employment, business opportunities for large, small and medium-sized companies; also, the transformation and renovation of urban areas, the conservation and promotion of our country’s natural and cultural heritage.”

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In the governor’s opinion, the achievements obtained in the sector do not respond to inertia or chance but to the result of the coordination of the Government, of the close collaboration that exists with the other agents, “with local governments, a dynamic and competitive business sector, and a sector in the labor service whose quality and warmth are recognized worldwide.”

DR is better than ever

On his side, David Collado maintained that the Dominican Republic is “better than ever” by reaching the historic figure of 621,953 arrivals in August, thus surpassing that same month of 2019 by 124,563 visitors.

In showing the sector’s growth figures before President Abinader and representatives of the private sector, Collado reported that.

“This means that in eight months Dominicans received the visit of 5,655,980 people. If this is not a record in tourist arrivals, what do we call it?”

He stated that of the 621,953 visitors in August, 502,289 were foreigners and 119,674 ethnics.

Collado indicated that the arrival of foreigners in August represents a growth of 27 % in relation to 2019 and 11 % compared to 2018.

Similarly, he highlighted that ethnic visits last month also registered an increase of 18 % more than August 2019 and 39 % compared to 2018.

Finally, he explained that the arrival of tourists by air last month marks a record, surpassing 2018, when 537,576 arrived, and 2019 with a visit of 497,390.

Present at the activity were Héctor Valdez Albizu, governor of the Central Bank; José Rijo, director general of Budget; Catalino Correa, comptroller general of the Republic; vice admiral Francisco Sosa, commander general of the Navy; major general Carlos Febrillet, commander general of the Air Force.

Also, Vice Admiral José Manuel Cabrera Ulloa, president of the National Drug Control Directorate; General Alberto Then, director of the National Police; General Minoru Matsunaga, director of Politur; and Eduardo Sanz Lovatón, director of the General Customs Directorate.

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Dominican Republic Has It All

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, our lush tropical island paradise boasts nearly 1,000 miles (1,609 km) of coastline, 250 miles (402 km) of the world’s top beaches, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options. Here you can dance to the pulse pounding thrill of the merengue, renew in our luxurious and diverse accommodations , explore ancient relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican gastronomy or enjoy ecotourism adventures in our magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers, and beaches.

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Getting here: air & sea travel, getting around: travel between regions, places to stay & accommodations, frequently asked questions, choose your passion, entertainment & events, water sports, adventure activities, outdoor recreation & sports, natural attractions, cultural attractions & sightseeing, family friendly activities, dining & nightlife, dominican republic, discover all that we have, over 2000 beaches, many of which remain uncrowded and undeveloped - line the caribbean and the atlantic coastlines, ranging from a brilliant white to a handful of black sand stretching southwest., bahía de las águilas.

Recognized as the most beautiful beach in the Dominican Republic, this diamond-white stretch runs a whopping five miles, boasting…

Bahía de Luperón

Beige-colored beach with large rocks and swimmable area. Tourists will often stop by before or after a visit to the close by historic…

The scenic fishing town of Bayahíbe is an attraction in and of itself, lucky to boast multiple beaches on its coastline, including…

Known for its beautiful white-sand beach, Cabo Rojo gets its name from the area’s bauxite presence and resulting dark rust-colored dirt…

The smallest of the islands off the shore of Bayahíbe, Catalinita sits in the Catuano Channel, popular for its crystal clear waters…

The Dominican Republic is blessed with the Caribbean’s highest mountain ranges, tucked in the heart of the country, where you’ll find the lushest landscapes and coolest temperatures.

Altos de chavón amphitheater.

Designed like a Grecian amphitheater, this breathtaking 5,000-seat open-air facility hosts concerts and performances from major…

Anamuya Ziplines

Punta Cana is home to the very first zipline built in the DR, and it’s built to suit all daredevils, new or experienced. Runners…

Avenida de la Marina

The scenic, two-kilometer (1.2 mile) long waterfront boulevard lining Samaná Bay wins over every photographer’s eye. Also known as the…

Barahona City

The city of Barahona is a primarily industrial town, important for its port access and commercial activities, which include sugar…

Boca de Yuma

Less than an hour south of Punta Cana, Boca de Yuma offers a daytime escape to a scenic Dominican fishing village. Boasting panoramic…

Renowned for having the most magnificent golf courses in the Caribbean region, and Latin America, the Dominican Republic is the undisputed leader of golf in the tropics.

Bella vista golf club.

Short and flat, the course was built for the executives of the large Falconbridge mining company in the city of Bonao. It was designed…

Cabeza de Toro Golf Club

One of two courses located within the Catalonia Bávaro Resort in Punta Cana, Alberto Sola designed the Cabeza de Toro Golf Club as a…

Caribe Golf Club

Part of the Catalonia Bávaro Resort, Alberto Sola and Jack Corrie designed the 18-hole Caribe Golf Club. Open from October to June…

Cayacoa Golf Club

Built in 1989 and designed by Jack Corrie, Cayacoa Golf Club is located just 25 minutes northwest of Santo Domingo, yet remains a…

Cocotal Golf & Country Club

Designed by six-time Spanish Champion, Pepe Gancedo, who has designed more than 18 golf courses throughout Spain, some rated among the…

Art + Culture

Known as the cradle of the americas, the dominican republic is full of iconic sights across its cities and provinces., alcázar de colón.

One of the most popular museums in the Colonial City is also its most impressive in architecture. Completed around 1512, this Gothic…

Bartolo Colón Stadium

Located in the small town of Altamira, birthplace of Major League player Bartolo Colón, the professional player built this stadium and…

Basílica Nuestra Señora De La Altagracia

Located in Higüey and inaugurated in 1971, this cathedral is one of the most important religious sites in the Dominican Republic. It…

Bonao Carnival

Each February, in celebration of Carnival, Bonao features its own unique characters parading to the beat of the carnival drums on…

Cabral is best known for its colorful carnival at the end of Easter, when the Cachúa characters dress in bat-like costumes and unfold…

10 Adventurous Things to Do

The Dominican Republic is full of incredible destinations that not many people know of. It's also a country with a diverse and colourful culture.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Horseback riding, paragliding, mountain biking.

Update April 12, 2024

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Dominican Republic Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 6, 2023, dominican republic - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Country Summary:  Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo. The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Dominican Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Follow the advice of resort and tour operators regarding local safety and security concerns.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

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