Dominican Republic tourism reaches 7.7 million visitors through July 2026

The Dominican Republic's tourism sector reported 7.7 million visitors between January and July 2026, a 7% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Tourism Minister David Collado projected that the country could reach a record 12.5 million visitors by the end of 2026.

In Puerto Plata, the Ministry of Tourism launched the “Turismo Cerca de Ti” (Tourism Close to You) program. This national initiative aims to integrate local communities, businesses, and service providers into a strategy focused on sustainability, tourist security, and regulatory strengthening.

Infrastructure developments were also highlighted in the region. Minister Collado inaugurated a new photographic lookout in Punta Rucia, an investment of approximately RD$10.8 million designed to enhance the area's visual identity and public spaces. Additionally, the Punta Bergantín project opened its Welcome Center, marking the start of physical infrastructure for that development. In San Felipe, the government also announced plans to equip the local branch of the Dominican Association of Tourism Press (ADOMPRETUR).