Dominican Republic Showcases Record-Breaking Tourism From the U.S. as More Than 800 Industry Leaders Unite in New York
The Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic celebrated one of its most successful years on record by hosting a high-profile gathering of more than 800 travel and tourism leaders at the iconic Cipriani Wall Street in New York City. Held in November, the event highlighted the country’s unprecedented tourism growth—particularly from the United States—and underscored the Dominican Republic’s strategic commitment to strengthening its position as the Caribbean’s leading destination for American travelers.
The celebration followed the release of remarkable tourism figures that confirmed the country’s continued upward trajectory. Between January and October 2025, the Dominican Republic welcomed 3,730,852 nonresident air travelers from the United States, a historic achievement representing 52% of all international arrivals during that period. The surge not only reaffirmed the United States as the country’s dominant source market but also demonstrated the success of long-term investment and policy efforts that have accelerated the recovery and expansion of the tourism industry.
A Tribute to the Dominican Republic’s Strongest Market
Minister of Tourism David Collado led the evening’s program, offering a forward-looking reflection on the importance of the U.S. market in the country’s tourism strategy. In his address to industry guests—including travel agents, tour operators, airline executives, cruise line leaders, and tourism stakeholders—Collado emphasized that the United States remains at the heart of the Dominican Republic’s tourism plans.
“The United States is not only our largest source of visitors; it’s the foundation of our tourism growth strategy,” he stated. “More than half of all tourists to our country are American, and our efforts to strengthen this relationship are yielding historic results.”
The event in New York City served as both a celebration and a strategic engagement, bringing together the industry’s most influential U.S. partners in a region that continues to outpace all others in travel to the Dominican Republic.
The Northeast U.S.: A Powerhouse Source Market
New York was chosen intentionally as the event’s host city, underscoring the immense role the Northeastern United States plays in shaping Dominican tourism. Between January and October 2025, travelers from seven Northeastern states—New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Maryland—accounted for 1,953,219 arrivals to the Dominican Republic. This remarkable figure represents 52% of all U.S. visitors, further demonstrating the Northeast’s dominance in outbound travel to the Caribbean nation.
New York alone contributed 896,624 travelers, making it the single largest U.S. market with 24% of the national total. This concentration of Dominican-bound travelers reflects the strong cultural, economic, and familial connections between the Dominican Republic and the northeastern region of the United States.
Beyond U.S. travelers, the Northeast is also home to a substantial Dominican diaspora. Of the 1,042,131 nonresident Dominicans who visited the country during the same period, an astonishing 79% (828,152 visitors) came from these seven Northeastern states. This reality reinforces the dual nature of the Dominican Republic’s tourism appeal: it is both a world-class leisure destination and a beloved homecoming location for millions of Dominicans living abroad.
A Night Celebrating Dominican Culture, Beauty, and Hospitality
Guests at Cipriani Wall Street were treated to an immersive evening that highlighted the Dominican Republic’s charm and diversity. The program showcased the country’s signature warmth and hospitality—key pillars of its new global identity—and celebrated its rich natural and cultural offerings. Attendees experienced a journey through the nation’s landscapes, from lush mountains and idyllic beaches to historic cities and vibrant cultural centers.
The presentation highlighted the country’s wide range of tourism destinations, each offering unique attractions and experiences:
Punta Cana: The Crown Jewel
As the Dominican Republic’s most iconic destination, Punta Cana continues to lead the country’s tourism appeal. The opening of new luxury properties—including Zel by Meliá and W Punta Cana—has added sophisticated, adult-focused experiences and expanded the region’s portfolio of high-end resorts. Its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and all-inclusive offerings make it a favorite for couples, families, and luxury travelers alike.
Miches: The Rising Eco-Luxury Haven
Just 45 minutes from Punta Cana, Miches is rapidly emerging as one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after eco-luxury escapes. The upcoming Four Seasons Miches, built with environmental stewardship at its core, is expected to elevate the region’s profile among high-end, sustainability-conscious travelers seeking tranquility, nature, and exclusivity.
Samaná: A Sanctuary of Nature
On the northeastern coast, Samaná remains one of the Dominican Republic’s most pristine and naturally breathtaking regions. Its secluded beaches, emerald waters, and dramatic landscapes draw travelers seeking escape and adventure. Each winter, Samaná becomes a global center for humpback whale watching, attracting wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.
La Romana & Bayahibe: Paradise for Golf and Island Explorers
Known for world-class golf and upscale resorts, La Romana and nearby Bayahibe offer exceptional experiences both on land and at sea. Visitors can access unspoiled islands such as Saona and Catalina, jewels of the Caribbean famed for crystal-clear waters, rich marine life, and postcard-perfect scenery.
Santiago & La Vega: Culture in the Northern Highlands
In the mountainous interior, Santiago and La Vega present an authentic blend of history, culture, and modern Dominican life. These cities offer vibrant nightlife, traditional gastronomy, historic sites, and are home to the heart of the nation’s beloved Carnival celebrations.
Puerto Plata: Atlantic Charm & Adventure
Facing the Atlantic Ocean, Puerto Plata combines picturesque colonial architecture with access to outdoor adventure. Its proximity to Cabarete—a world-renowned hub for surfing, kiteboarding, and water sports—makes the region a magnet for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Río San Juan: A Hidden Coastal Treasure
Peaceful and lesser known, Río San Juan offers golden-sand beaches, serene lagoons, and a sense of natural tranquility. It is also home to several exclusive retreats and celebrity hideaways, making it one of the country’s best-kept secrets.
Santo Domingo: The Cultural and Urban Heartbeat
The capital city, Santo Domingo, blends centuries-old colonial heritage with cosmopolitan sophistication. From the UNESCO-listed Colonial Zone to modern districts filled with exceptional dining, shopping, nightlife, and arts, the city appeals to travelers seeking an enriching urban experience.
A Global Strategy to Strengthen Tourism Leadership
The New York event was part of the Dominican Republic’s broader international efforts to strengthen relationships with key markets and showcase the country’s tourism diversity. Throughout 2025, the Ministry of Tourism has executed a dynamic global strategy aimed at elevating the Dominican Republic’s image, expanding its appeal, and reinforcing its position as a world-class destination.
One of the most notable initiatives of the year was the launch of the “Dominicana Smiles at You” global campaign. This initiative spotlights the hospitality, warmth, and joy that define the Dominican people—qualities that consistently earn the country top rankings in visitor satisfaction.
The campaign, paired with significant public and private investments in infrastructure, safety, hotel development, and sustainable tourism, has helped the Dominican Republic maintain its momentum and attract diverse segments of travelers.
With visitor numbers continuing to break records, the Dominican Republic stands firmly at the forefront of Caribbean tourism. The country’s leadership attributes this success not only to its natural and cultural strengths but also to its strong partnerships with international airlines, hotel brands, tour operators, and travel agencies.
As the Ministry of Tourism continues expanding routes, enhancing promotional efforts, and supporting new tourism developments, the Dominican Republic is poised to continue its upward trajectory well into 2026 and beyond. Its blend of world-class experiences, rich cultural heritage, and unwavering hospitality positions it as a destination that resonates with travelers from all walks of life.
The New York celebration symbolized more than past achievements—it was a declaration of future ambition. As Minister Collado reiterated, the Dominican Republic remains committed to innovation, collaboration, and exceptional visitor experiences. With its strategic focus on the U.S. market and its vision for sustainable growth, the country is set to remain the Caribbean’s leading destination for years to come.
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