Dominican Republic celebrates 10 million visitors for the second consecutive year
10-12-24
The Dominican Republic has reached a new milestone in its tourism history by welcoming, for the second consecutive year, more than 10 million visitors in 2023. This achievement, celebrated on December 26 at Punta Cana International Airport, reflects the consolidation of the country as a reference destination in the Caribbean and worldwide.
Tourism Minister David Collado, together with President Luis Abinader, highlighted this milestone as the result of an effective strategy that has combined the efforts of the public and private sectors. During the event, Ariana Guilak, a traveler from Miami, was recognized as the 10 millionth visitor. The figure includes 7.86 million arrivals by air and 2.17 million by cruise ships, demonstrating the diversification of access routes to the country.
Tourism has been a fundamental engine for the country's economic development, generating more than 620,000 direct jobs and exceeding US$11 billion in foreign exchange earnings. These resources not only directly benefit the tourism sector, but also have a positive impact on other sectors such as agriculture, construction and services.
President Abinader stressed that this achievement “not only means tourists, it means development, employment and economic dynamization”. The impact extends to the entire country, positioning the Dominican Republic as a model for other destinations seeking to recover from the pandemic.
Among the factors that have driven this success is the strategic collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and private stakeholders, who have worked on the international promotion of the destination. In addition, key infrastructure has been developed, including improvements in airports and ports, which facilitate the arrival of visitors.
The advertising campaign launched in key markets, such as the United States, has been another key element. This initiative, supported by leading Dominican cultural and artistic figures, promoted the idea of reaching “10 million smiles”, a campaign that connected emotionally with potential tourists.
Dominican tourism does not stop at this achievement. By 2024, the country seeks to consolidate its global position and further diversify its tourism offer. Among the projects underway are the development of new sustainable destinations and the expansion of cultural and ecological programs that attract different traveler profiles.
In addition, the government and the private sector are working on strategies to address the challenges of climate change and sustainability, ensuring that tourism growth is compatible with environmental preservation.
The success of Dominican tourism has been recognized by international institutions, which qualify it as an example of solid and sustained recovery after the pandemic. Since 2019, the country has experienced remarkable growth, standing out among Caribbean destinations for its ability to adapt and overcome adversity.
The milestone of 10 million visitors not only reaffirms the Dominican Republic as a tourism leader, but also demonstrates the transformative power of tourism to generate development and well-being. This achievement, which combines innovation, collaboration and strategic vision, bodes well for the country's future as a preferred destination on the global stage.
With a focus on sustainability and strengthening its infrastructure, the Dominican Republic is poised to maintain this growth and continue to lead in the tourism sector for years to come.
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