The Dominican Republic is the most visited destination in the Caribbean, famous for its all-inclusive resorts, stunning beaches, and tropical landscapes.
In 2024, the country welcomed a record 10.3 million tourists, setting an all-time high for both air and cruise arrivals.
Tourism continues to be the backbone of the Dominican economy, contributing nearly 16% of national GDP and employing hundreds of thousands of Dominicans across hospitality, transport, and entertainment sectors.
Key stats: Dominican Republic Tourism
- 11.2 million visitors in 2024 — the Dominican Republic set a new tourism record, welcoming over eleven million guests.
- +48% visitor growth since 2019 — showing a powerful rebound and expansion in the tourism sector.
- US $20.5 billion contribution to GDP in 2024 — tourism now represents about 16% of the national economy.
- US $11.2 billion from international visitors in 2024, plus ~US $3.9 billion from domestic tourism — both robust figures in recovery mode.
- ~876,000 jobs supported — tourism remains a major employment driver in the country.
- Tourism’s share of GDP rose to 8.8% in 2024 — showing its deeper economic role.
- Forecast: over US $21 billion contribution to GDP by 2025 — expectations remain strong for further growth.
- In Jan–Sep 2024: ~8.36 million visitors — ~10% more than a year earlier and ~45% above 2019, underlining acceleration.
- The U.S. remains the largest source market (≈39%), with Canada (~14%) and Colombia (~4%) trailing.
- From hotel occupancy to cruise arrivals, the Dominican Republic is reaffirming itself as a leading Caribbean destination.
How Many Tourists Visit the Dominican Republic Each Year?
The Dominican Republic welcomed 10.3 million tourists in 2024 — the highest in its history.
- 2019: 7.56M visitors
- 2020: ~2.8M (pandemic impact)
- 2021: ~5.1M
- 2022: ~8.5M
- 2023: ~10.0M
- 2024: ~10.3M
Tourism officials project that 2025 could exceed 11 million visitors, driven by expanded air routes and cruise traffic.
How Many Tourists Visit the Dominican Republic Each Day?
On average, the Dominican Republic welcomes ~28,000 tourists daily.
This number peaks during winter months (December–March) when travelers from North America and Europe escape colder climates.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in the Dominican Republic?
Tourists spent over USD 9.8 billion in 2024, according to the Ministry of Tourism.
- Average spend per visitor: ~$950
- Tourism GDP share: ~16%
- Jobs supported: ~600,000 directly + indirectly
Tourism is the country’s leading source of foreign exchange, surpassing remittances and exports.
Which Countries Visit the Dominican Republic the Most?
The U.S. is the dominant source market, followed by Canada and Spain.
| Country | Visitors (2024 est.) | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 United States | ~4.5M | ~44% |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ~1.2M | ~12% |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | ~550K | ~5% |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | ~450K | ~4% |
| 🇫🇷 France | ~430K | ~4% |
| 🇨🇴 Colombia | ~400K | ~3.8% |
| 🇦🇷 Argentina | ~350K | ~3.4% |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | ~300K | ~2.9% |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | ~250K | ~2.3% |
| 🇧🇷 Brazil | ~200K | ~1.9% |
What Are the Most Visited Destinations in the Dominican Republic?
Punta Cana remains the top destination, followed by Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata.
| Destination | Annual Visitors (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Punta Cana | ~6.5M | All-inclusive resort hub |
| Santo Domingo | ~1.8M | Capital city, culture & history |
| Puerto Plata | ~950K | Cruise & beach tourism |
| La Romana | ~600K | Luxury resorts |
| Samaná | ~400K | Ecotourism & whale watching |
| Bávaro | ~350K | Adjacent to Punta Cana |
| Sosúa & Cabarete | ~250K | Water sports & nightlife |
| Bayahibe | ~200K | Diving hotspot |
| Jarabacoa | ~150K | Mountain tourism |
| Constanza | ~120K | Nature & adventure tourism |
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Dominican Republic? (Seasonality)
The Dominican Republic enjoys year-round sunshine, but the high season runs from December through April.
| Season | Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Peak | Dry weather, high prices |
| Spring (Apr–Jun) | Moderate | Warm weather, fewer crowds |
| Summer (Jul–Aug) | High | Family vacations |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Low | Hurricane season, deals available |
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in the Dominican Republic?
Beyond beaches, the country offers colonial history, natural parks, and adventure tourism.
| Attraction | Annual Visitors (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bávaro Beach | ~2.5M | Punta Cana’s iconic beach |
| Zona Colonial (Santo Domingo) | ~2M | UNESCO World Heritage site |
| Saona Island | ~1.8M | Catamaran excursions |
| Los Haitises National Park | ~800K | Mangroves & caves |
| Damajagua Waterfalls | ~700K | Adventure tours |
| Pico Duarte | ~500K | Tallest Caribbean mountain |
| Altos de Chavón | ~450K | Cultural village |
| Cayo Levantado | ~400K | Beach island near Samaná |
| Jarabacoa waterfalls | ~350K | Eco-adventure |
| Amber Museum (Puerto Plata) | ~300K | Cultural heritage |
How Important Is Cruise Tourism in the Dominican Republic?
Cruise arrivals exceeded 2.3 million passengers in 2024, a historic record.
- Amber Cove (Puerto Plata): ~1.3M arrivals
- Taino Bay: ~650K arrivals
- La Romana Cruise Port: ~350K arrivals
Cruise traffic continues to grow with new infrastructure projects planned for Samaná and Cabo Rojo.
How Much Does Tourism Contribute to the Dominican Economy?
Tourism contributes around USD 9.8 billion and 16% of the national GDP.
- Foreign exchange earnings: Highest of any Caribbean nation
- Government target for 2025: 11.5 M tourists, USD 10.5 B revenue
- Tourism employment: ~600,000 jobs
Which Airports Are the Busiest in the Dominican Republic?
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) leads, handling over 60% of arrivals.
| Airport | Annual Passengers (2024) | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Punta Cana (PUJ) | ~6.4M | 62% |
| Santo Domingo (SDQ) | ~2.1M | 20% |
| Puerto Plata (POP) | ~900K | 9% |
| La Romana (LRM) | ~400K | 4% |
| Samaná (AZS) | ~250K | 2% |
Which Hotel Destinations Are Growing Fastest?
Samaná, Miches, and Pedernales (Cabo Rojo) are the emerging resort areas.
- Over 95,000 hotel rooms nationwide in 2025
- New luxury projects from Hyatt, Marriott, and Meliá under development
- Occupancy rate (2024): ~79% national average
FAQ – Dominican Republic Tourism Insights
How many tourists visited the Dominican Republic in 2024?
Around 10.3 million, a new national record.
Which country sends the most tourists?
The United States (~4.5 million).
How much revenue does tourism generate?
Roughly USD 9.8 billion per year.
When is the best time to visit?
December to April (dry, sunny season).
What are the top destinations?
Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Puerto Plata.
How big is the tourism workforce?
Around 600,000 Dominicans.
Sources
- Ministerio de Turismo de la República Dominicana (MITUR) — Dominican Republic Tourism Statistical Reports 2025
- Banco Central de la República Dominicana — Economic and Tourism Indicators 2024
- Caribbean Journal — Dominican Republic Sets New Tourism Record in 2024
- Reuters — Dominican Republic Hits 10.3 Million Tourists in 2024
- World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) — Economic Impact Report: Dominican Republic 2024
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