Jamaica Invests in Tourism Infrastructure to Ensure Strong Post-Hurricane Recovery, Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 23, 2025

The tourism sector in Jamaica is on a strong recovery trajectory, even though it has faced some challenges due to the effects of Hurricane Melissa. With the approaching year 2026, the tourism experts in Jamaica are optimistic that the industry will be restored to almost normalcy levels by the end of the next year. The officials of Jamaica, including the country’s Minister of Tourism, Jamaica Minister, Edmund Bartlett, and Director, Donovan White, and Deputy Director, Phillip, had a meeting with some media personnel from New York.

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 hurricane, caused devastation all over the island of Jamaica, especially the southwestern and northwestern parts. Though the entire island experienced damage, including the displacement of residents, the middle and eastern parts are relatively unaffected. Though the situation was tough, the strength and resilience of the Jamaican nation and their indomitable spirit are the backbone behind the rapid recovery process, which gives the tourism sector reason to believe that the island will recover fully in one year.

Jamaica’s Resilient Tourism: From Hurricane Devastation to Recovery

Minister Bartlett expressed his optimism about Jamaica’s recovery, emphasizing the strength and spirit of the people who have endured immense hardship. “People are still without homes in a lot of areas, but their spirit has not been touched,” he remarked. “Their hearts and minds might have been bent a little, but never broken, and that is the essence of our recovery.”

The storm’s effects have left the island’s tourism sector with a significant loss in visitors. However, the outlook for the future remains bright, with recovery projections pointing toward a return to near pre-hurricane levels by the end of 2026. While Jamaica initially projected a 2% increase in tourism numbers for the year, the storm’s aftermath has led to a 22% drop in visitors compared to last year. Despite the setback, the tourism officials are confident in a steady rebound.

Gradual but Steady Recovery Expected by 2026

Director Donovan White shared that the country expects a gradual increase in tourist numbers, forecasting a return to 95% to 98% of pre-hurricane visitor levels by the end of 2026. As of now, 70% of all hotel rooms are available and selling, which reflects a strong and growing demand for accommodations. With tourism numbers beginning to trend upward, confidence among industry partners is also growing, giving Jamaica’s tourism leaders reason to be optimistic about the upcoming year.

The recovery trajectory is reminiscent of the island’s swift recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. Bartlett referred to Jamaica’s success during the pandemic era as a positive indicator for the tourism sector’s ability to bounce back once again. “Jamaica has been a success story for tourism,” he said, pointing to the island’s capacity to overcome global challenges in the past and emerge even stronger.

Investments in Jamaica’s Tourism Sector: Confidence from Major Property Developers

A key indicator of Jamaica’s tourism industry’s future success is the ongoing investment from large property developers, despite the damage caused by the hurricane. Bartlett expressed his satisfaction with the continued support from major investors, particularly in Montego Bay, one of the island’s primary tourism hubs. Five large property developments are moving forward without delay, signaling confidence in the long-term potential of Jamaica’s tourism sector.

Notable developments include a collaboration between UNICO and Hard Rock to build a new resort, as well as a 1,000-room resort being developed by the Palladium Hotel Group. Both projects are taking place in Montego Bay, a prime location for international tourists. Bartlett highlighted that just four days after the hurricane, workers were back on the Hard Rock property, continuing the development without interruption. This rapid return to work reflects the resilience of both the tourism industry and the Jamaican workforce.

In addition to these major developments, an apartment complex by The Pinnacle is also under construction in Montego Bay, further expanding the island’s capacity to accommodate tourists. These new projects will provide a range of accommodations for visitors, from luxury resorts to residential options, reinforcing Jamaica’s position as a diverse destination for travelers.

Reopening Popular Tourist Destinations and Hotels

Despite the setbacks from the storm, many of Jamaica’s most popular tourist areas have reopened. Well-known destinations like Negril and Ocho Rios, famous for their beaches and attractions, have welcomed back visitors. Several high-end resorts, such as Sandals resorts, Jake’s Treasure Beach, and The Tryall Club, have resumed operations, ensuring that travelers can once again enjoy the luxury and experiences Jamaica has to offer.

However, some hotels, including three Sandals properties and seven Hyatt locations, will remain closed for extended renovations. These closures are part of a larger effort to rebuild and improve the resorts, allowing them to reopen stronger and more attractive than ever. This time for renovations provides an opportunity for the tourism industry to improve its offerings, ensuring that future visitors experience an even higher standard of service and hospitality when they return.

Revitalizing Infrastructure in Key Towns and Cities

Bartlett also highlighted plans to rebuild and improve tourism infrastructure in certain towns, such as Black River and Falmouth. These areas, which experienced significant damage, will benefit from new and more efficient infrastructure that enhances the visitor experience. The improvements are expected to streamline transportation, improve accessibility to attractions, and provide visitors with a more seamless and enjoyable trip.

The redevelopment of these towns is part of a broader strategy to make Jamaica not only a key destination for international tourists but also a more sustainable and resilient one. Investing in tourism infrastructure will help boost the local economy and provide better services to both residents and visitors, fostering long-term growth and prosperity for Jamaica’s tourism sector.

Supporting Jamaica Through Tourism: A Call to Visit

Minister Bartlett concluded by encouraging the global community to support Jamaica during this recovery phase by visiting the island. “The best way to support Jamaica is to visit,” he said. As the country continues to rebuild, the influx of tourists will be crucial in revitalizing the economy and ensuring that the island remains a top destination for travelers from around the world.

A Bright Future for Jamaica’s Tourism Sector

The Jamaican tourist industry is definitely on track to make a full recovery, and this has been attributed to the strength of the Jamaican people and even greater investment in infrastructure, as well as advances in investor confidence. Despite Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica is ready to go back to its former heights in tourist arrivals and continue to move as a major world tourist destination. With major tourist zones opening again, as well as upcoming projects, Jamaica is definitely headed for an exciting and prosperous tourist future. The positive story of recovery and renewal in Jamaica is a true reflection of Jamaican resilience and beauty.