Leveraging Connectivity and Emerging Destinations
The Dominican Republic, globally recognized for its popular vacation tourism in the Caribbean, is now determined to expand its horizons and establish itself as a leading destination for meetings, conferences, and incentive travel (MICE), a rapidly growing segment in the region.
Highlighting Progress at IBTM Americas 2025
During the IBTM Americas 2025 in Mexico City, Carolina Pérez, Director of the Dominican Republic’s Tourism Promotion Office in Mexico, discussed the strategy driving this evolution and the advances made in connectivity, destination diversification, and attracting new markets with El Economista.
Strengthening Air Connectivity as a Key Driver
The enhancement of air connectivity has been crucial. Dominican airline Arajet has expanded routes to Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Colombia, diversifying the profile of tourists and positioning the country in non-traditional markets.
We are receiving visitors with different expectations, from congress attendees to those seeking destination weddings. This requires us to enrich our offerings and adapt to various profiles,” Pérez mentioned.
Pérez also noted that the Dominican Republic is tapping into its diaspora in the United States, particularly second and third-generation travelers who visit as tourists, stay in hotels, and participate in cultural and recreational activities.
Combating Seasonality
One of the primary objectives is to reduce dependence on high seasons for sun and beach tourism. By hosting international weddings, conferences, and corporate travel, the country aims to maintain a steady flow of visitors throughout the year.
“We want tourists to experience more comprehensive offerings, discovering history, culture, and nature along with our beaches. This sets us apart and allows growth in the MICE segment,” Pérez stated.
Long-Term Vision for Business Tourism
Business tourism in the Dominican Republic is part of an integrated strategy that includes hotel investments, expanding air routes, international promotion, and destination diversification.
“The Dominican Republic will continue to lead in sun and beach tourism, but it will also be recognized as a country capable of hosting large events and business travelers. Our goal is clear: diversify, grow, and establish the destination as a Latin American leader,” Pérez concluded.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Dominican Republic’s goal in business tourism? The Dominican Republic aims to become a leading hub for meetings, conferences, and incentive travel (MICE) in the Caribbean by leveraging air connectivity and tapping into emerging destinations.
- How is the Dominican Republic enhancing air connectivity? The country’s airline, Arajet, has expanded routes to Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Colombia, diversifying the profile of tourists and positioning the Dominican Republic in non-traditional markets.
- What strategies is the Dominican Republic using to combat seasonality? The country plans to reduce dependence on high seasons by hosting international weddings, conferences, and corporate travel, ensuring a steady flow of visitors throughout the year.
- What is the long-term vision for business tourism in the Dominican Republic? The Dominican Republic intends to maintain its leadership in sun and beach tourism while also establishing itself as a destination capable of hosting large events and business travelers, with a focus on diversification, growth, and regional leadership.
