Tourexpi
This
would represent 15.8% of the country's total economy, reflecting sustained
growth and resilience in one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant tourism markets.
According
to the latest Economic Impact Research (EIR), conducted in partnership with
Oxford Economics, this projected growth marks a 3.3% year-on-year increase and
highlights the Dominican Republic’s strong commitment to sustainable tourism
development.
The
WTTC estimates that nearly 893,000 people will be employed in the sector by the
end of 2025, accounting for 17.9% of the national workforce. International
visitor spending is projected to reach US$11.4 billion, while domestic tourism
spending is expected to rise to US$4.1 billion, underscoring the dual
importance of both global appeal and domestic market strength.
A
Look Back at 2024
In
2024, the tourism sector contributed US$20.5 billion to the GDP, making up
16.1% of the national economy. It supported over 876,000 jobs—approximately
17.6% of the country's total employment. That same year, international tourism
spending reached US$11.2 billion, while domestic spending hit US$3.9 billion—up
17.6% and 12.3% respectively compared to 2019 levels.
WTTC
President & CEO Julia Simpson stated:
"The
Dominican Republic continues to show exemplary leadership in the region,
establishing itself as a world-class tourism destination. The 2025 projections
are a testament to a sector that is growing stronger and delivering real
economic and employment benefits. We applaud President Luis Abinader and our
Dominican Members for their vision and commitment."
Frank
Rainieri, Founder and Chairman of Grupo Puntacana and WTTC Executive Committee
Member, added:
"This
performance is the result of close public-private collaboration in Dominican
tourism, driving economic growth and contributing directly to poverty
reduction."
Tourism
Spending and Travel Trends
The
report also revealed that in 2024, leisure travel accounted for 93.7% of total
tourism, while business travel made up 6.3%. The leading source markets were
the United States (39%), Canada (14%), and Colombia (4%).
Tourism
Sector Outlook to 2035
Looking
ahead, the WTTC projects that by 2035, the sector could contribute over US$29
billion to the Dominican GDP, with an annual growth rate of 3.3%. Employment in
the sector is expected to reach nearly 980,000, creating more than 87,000 new
jobs over the next decade.
Regional
Data – The Caribbean Context
In
2024, the Caribbean’s travel and tourism sector contributed US$81.4 billion to
regional GDP—representing 17.6% of the economy and surpassing 2019 levels by
more than 28%. In 2025, this contribution is expected to rise to US$86 billion,
accounting for 18.2% of the regional economy. Employment in the sector is
projected to exceed 3 million jobs, or 16.1% of the total regional workforce.
For
additional data and to access the full technical report, including the latest Environmental
& Social Research (ESR) by the WTTC, please visit the WTTC Research Hub.
Image
Credit: © AA
The most interesting news


Italy set to break tourism records as Rome prepares to host WTTC’s 25th Global Summit
International visitor spending to exceed €60 billion as global tourism leaders head to the Eternal City.


Major Boost for Tourism: Construction Begins on the Antalya–Alanya Highway
Turkey’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, has announced that construction of the new Antalya–Alanya highway will officially commence on 25 July.


TUI Care Foundation launches two new TUI Futureshapers projects in Portugal and North Africa
TUI Futureshapers Portugal offers training, mentorship, and expert support to help social entrepreneurs build sustainable tourism businesses with impact.


Historic Ju 52 on its Way to the Lufthansa Group Conference and Visitor Center
The historic Junkers Ju 52, affectionately known as "Aunt Ju," is leaving Paderborn-Lippstadt to become a permanent exhibit at the new Lufthansa Group Conference and Visitor Center.


AI-supported ground processes: Lufthansa, Fraport, and zeroG drive innovation at Frankfurt Airport
Camera-based computer vision solution “seer” improves punctuality — ground operations become more efficient — customer experience enhanced.


Marriott International Completes Acquisition of citizenM Brand
Transaction Expands Company's Global Lifestyle Offerings.


Ryanair urges government to abolish air travel tax in 2026 budget
Air travel tax must be scrapped if Germany wants to return to pre-COVID traffic and tourism levels


There's Never Been a Better Time to Visit Hyatt Regency Danang
Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2025 winner unveils elevated dining experiences and unparalleled family accommodations.


TAT Launches Coral College Project to Promote Safe and Sustainable Marine Tourism
New bilingual e-learning platform aims to protect marine ecosystems and raise tourist awareness.


Thailand–Cambodia conflict escalates with new airstrikes despite ceasefire calls
The ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has entered its third day, marked by renewed airstrikes and rising casualties, despite mounting international calls for an immediate ceasefire.


Turkish Airlines signs deal with Dubai Islamic Bank for Airbus A350 acquisitions
Turkish Airlines has signed a landmark financing agreement with Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) to fund the purchase of Airbus A350 aircraft, marking a significant step in its financial and strategic growth.


Peru’s tourism sector on track for historic record in 2025
According to the latest estimates by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Peru’s tourism sector is expected to reach an all-time high in 2025, generating over USD 23 billion and contributing 7.8% to the country’s GDP.


Condor announces expanded summer 2026 flight schedule with new destinations
Condor has released its flight schedule for summer 2026, unveiling an expanded network of popular holiday destinations and increased service frequencies on high-demand long-haul routes.


TAT showcases Blue Jasmine luxury rail journey ahead of November launch
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has completed a technical familiarisation trip to preview the upcoming Blue Jasmine Luxury Rail Journey, set to begin its maiden voyage this November.


Holland America Line launches new era of onboard entertainment
Holland America Line is introducing a refreshed entertainment experience across its fleet, with changes rolling out now through 2026.


Agoda Ranks Asia's Most Affordable Summer Destinations for Hoteliers to Manage Yields from Deals
Surabaya leads the list of top-value destinations across Asia, with average room rates at just $35 per night, according to digital travel platform Agoda.


Fresh Highlights from Eurowings – 25 July 2025
Eurowings Ranked Among Europe’s Top Airlines.


IHG Hotels & Resorts Announces First voco Resort in Oman with the Signing of voco Al Mouj Muscat
IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of a management agreement with Golden Group Holding for voco Al Mouj Muscat, a 251-room beachfront resort set to open in the fourth quarter of 2025.


Malaysia launches MYMT 2026: a new era in medical tourism
The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) has officially launched the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 (MYMT 2026) at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).


Thailand Leads Push to Strengthen Two-Way Travel Between India and ASEAN
As part of the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism 2025, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted the ASEAN-India Forum from 22–25 July in Bangkok.


Condor launches inaugural flight to Sanya
Condor has added a new destination in the Asia-Pacific region with the launch of its first flight to Sanya, located on China’s Hainan Island.
