Dominican Republic Hits New Milestone: Over Three Million Seven Hundred Thousand U.S. Tourists Visit in 2025

Published on December 9, 2025

In November 2025, the Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic celebrated a significant milestone in the country’s tourism growth by hosting a prestigious event in New York. The gathering, held at the iconic Cipriani Wall Street, brought together more than 800 guests, including travel agents, tour operators, executives from airlines and cruise lines, and key figures from the travel industry. This event followed the announcement of impressive tourism results, with 3,730,852 nonresident air travelers from the United States visiting the Dominican Republic between January and October 2025. This marked 52% of all international arrivals to the country.

The United States: A Cornerstone of Dominican Tourism Growth

The evening event in New York held special significance, as the Northeastern U.S. has become a critical market for Dominican tourism. Minister of Tourism David Collado led the proceedings, underscoring the importance of the U.S. market to the country’s tourism strategy. According to Collado, the U.S. is not only the largest source of visitors to the Dominican Republic, but it also serves as the foundation of the country’s tourism growth strategy. More than half of all international tourists arriving in the Dominican Republic come from the U.S., and efforts to strengthen this relationship have been instrumental in achieving historic results.

The event highlighted the enormous impact that U.S. travelers have had on the country’s tourism. Between January and October 2025, the Northeastern U.S., which includes states such as New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Maryland, accounted for 1,953,219 travelers to the Dominican Republic. This represented 52% of all U.S. arrivals to the island, with New York contributing significantly by sending 896,624 travelers, which made up 24% of the total U.S. market.

The Role of the Dominican Diaspora in Tourism Growth

The Dominican Republic’s tourism success is not only driven by U.S. tourists but also by the vibrant Dominican diaspora in the U.S. During the same period, 1,042,131 nonresident Dominicans visited the country. Of these, a remarkable 79% (828,152) came from the seven Northeastern states, further strengthening the bond between the Dominican Republic and its communities abroad. The continued rise in both U.S. and Dominican diaspora visitors is a testament to the Dominican Republic’s appeal and its growing status as a leading Caribbean destination.

Celebrating Dominican Culture and Natural Beauty

The event in New York was more than just a gathering—it was a celebration of the Dominican Republic’s rich cultural heritage, legendary hospitality, and stunning natural beauty. The attendees were immersed in the country’s unique offerings, from its lush mountains and pristine beaches to its vibrant cities and towns. The Dominican Republic’s diverse tourism regions were highlighted, showcasing the many ways the country continues to captivate travelers from around the world.

Punta Cana, widely regarded as the crown jewel of the Dominican Republic, remains a top destination for travelers seeking luxury and relaxation. New luxury resorts, such as Zel by Meliá and W Punta Cana, are enhancing the appeal of this area by offering serene, adult-only escapes for those seeking a quiet retreat. Just 45 minutes from Punta Cana lies the emerging eco-luxury destination of Miches, where travelers can look forward to the opening of the sustainable Four Seasons Miches.

A World of Unforgettable Destinations

The Dominican Republic’s appeal extends far beyond its popular resort destinations. Samaná, known for its untouched beaches and incredible whale-watching opportunities, continues to draw visitors from around the globe each winter. La Romana and Bayahibe are famed for their world-class golf courses and the accessibility of the beautiful islands of Saona and Catalina, perfect for travelers seeking a getaway beyond the mainland.

Santiago and La Vega, located in the mountainous north, offer a rich blend of culture, history, and adventure. From vibrant nightlife to exploring the birthplace of the Dominican carnival, these regions are perfect for those looking to delve deeper into the country’s traditions. Puerto Plata, with its bustling cruise ports and picturesque Atlantic views, is another destination that combines historical charm with modern adventure. Visitors to Puerto Plata can also enjoy proximity to Cabarete, a haven for surfers and adventure enthusiasts.

Further along the northern coast, Río San Juan remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets. With its golden sands, celebrity hideaways, and tranquil natural surroundings, this area offers a more serene experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of other tourist hubs. Santo Domingo, the vibrant capital, offers a fascinating mix of colonial heritage, cosmopolitan energy, and world-class dining, shopping, and nightlife, making it a must-see for travelers interested in the fusion of history and modernity.

Dominican Republic’s Growing Popularity in the Caribbean

This event and the accompanying tourism statistics are part of the Dominican Republic’s broader strategy to showcase its tourism diversity and reinforce its position as the most visited Caribbean destination by U.S. tourists. The country’s ongoing efforts to promote its varied regions, from luxury resorts to cultural hotspots, are paying off as the number of visitors continues to soar.

The Dominican Republic’s appeal is not only based on its natural beauty but also on its rich cultural heritage and the warmth of its people. The launch of the “Dominicana Smiles at You” global campaign has spotlighted the kindness and hospitality of the Dominican people, further contributing to the country’s tourism growth. With momentum building, the Dominican Republic is poised to remain a top destination for U.S. tourists and travelers from around the world.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Dominican Tourism

As the Dominican Republic continues to lead the Caribbean in terms of tourism, the country’s diverse offerings, combined with its warm hospitality and breathtaking landscapes, ensure its status as a top global travel destination. With more than half of all international arrivals coming from the United States, the country’s tourism growth strategy remains focused on strengthening its relationship with U.S. travelers and showcasing the full range of experiences it offers.

The Dominican Republic’s tourism success is a testament to the country’s growing global appeal. From luxury resorts in Punta Cana to eco-tourism in Miches, from whale watching in Samaná to cultural exploration in Santiago, the Dominican Republic continues to attract visitors with its natural beauty, cultural depth, and world-class experiences. As the country solidifies its place as the most popular Caribbean destination for U.S. tourists, the future of Dominican tourism looks incredibly bright.

[Source: Businesswire]