Dominican President Declares Nation Top Investment Hub in LatAm

PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic — President Luis Abinader declared the Dominican Republic the premier investment destination in Latin America on Tuesday, speaking at the inauguration of the W Punta Cana, an adult-exclusive resort representing a $160 million investment in the eastern Uvero Alto region.

During his address, Abinader emphasized the significant positive impact such investments have on the country's tourism and economic development. He noted the hotel's construction began during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He highlighted the recent expansion of North American hotel chains in the Dominican Republic, positioning the nation as Latin America's second-largest recipient of U.S. investment, trailing only Mexico.

Currently, 15,000 new tourist rooms are under construction nationwide, with approximately 6,000 expected to open this year, he added. This development is projected to create quality jobs and foster economic stability for Dominicans.

The W Punta Cana, developed through a partnership between Marriott International, Grupo Puntacana, and Mac Hotels, features 340 rooms and suites. It offers 12 restaurants showcasing Dominican and international cuisine, alongside an "AWAY Spa" designed for adults with immersive experiences focusing on music, wellness, and avant-garde design.

Frank Elías Rainieri, president and CEO of Grupo Puntacana, praised the government's support for national tourism. He stated that President Abinader and his administration have consistently backed the sector, which now stands as a model of leadership and resilience across the region.

Tourism Minister David Collado welcomed the addition of the iconic W Hotels brand to the Dominican portfolio, noting its integration into the all-inclusive system. He asserted that Dominican tourism is experiencing its best period ever, despite a dip in U.S. visitors, which has been offset by an increase in South American arrivals and a a recovering European market.

Brian King, president of Marriott International for the Caribbean and Latin America, underscored the Dominican market's strategic importance for the company. He reiterated Marriott's commitment to strengthening the destination with flagship projects and introducing more renowned brands from the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio.

Begoña Amengual, CEO of Mac Hotels, thanked the president for promoting sector development through incentives for new projects, contributing to tourism's GDP growth and job creation.

Among other officials present were La Altagracia province Governor Daisy D'Oleo and Tourist Police Director Minoru Matsunaga.