Dominican Republic Sets New Visitor Record in First Quarter of 2025

The Dominican Republic continues to strengthen its position as one of the most resilient tourist destinations in the region, welcoming 3,348,716 visitors during the first quarter of 2025. This figure represents a 4% increase compared to 2024, a 16% rise over 2023, and an impressive 48% growth compared to 2019, according to Tourism Minister David Collado.

Between January and March, 2,320,725 travelers arrived by air, showing a slight 0.6% decrease from 2024, a variation influenced by seasonal factors such as the leap year and a shift in the Easter calendar. Despite that, air arrivals rose 12% over 2023 and 24% compared to 2019.

The cruise tourism sector saw the most significant growth, with 1,027,991 cruise passengers—a 15% increase from 2024, 27% over 2023, and a remarkable 167% surge compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. A total of 367 cruise ship operations were recorded during the first three months of the year, reflecting the robust performance of this segment.

On the aviation front, the country received 18,473 commercial flights with an average seat occupancy of 76%, underscoring the continued strength of international air connectivity.

The hospitality sector also performed well, achieving an average hotel occupancy rate of 81%. The most in-demand areas were Punta Cana–Bávaro, leading with 89% occupancy, and La Romana, which reached 85% of available rooms.

“Our tourism sector remains strong,” said Minister Collado, highlighting that this steady growth comes despite global uncertainty, and confirms the Dominican Republic's status as a regional leader in tourism.