Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. — The rise of the short-term rental market in the Dominican Republic is reshaping the nation’s tourism landscape. With over 51,000 active units, according to recent data from AirDNA and PriceLabs, the sector’s rapid growth highlights the country’s strong appeal for both local hosts and international investors.
Yet, as the industry expands, global precedents raise important questions. Cities like New York in the United States and Barcelona in Spain have faced massive restrictions, halting thousands of Airbnb and short-stay operations. Could the Dominican Republic face similar regulatory challenges?
These and other key issues will be the focus of debate at the first edition of the International Short-Term Rental Forum — Conexión Wave Fest 2025, taking place on November 8 and 9 at the exclusive Chic Cabaret Restaurant, located within the Palladium Hotels complex in Punta Cana.
A Space for Dialogue and Sustainable Growth
The forum — organized by Conexión Wave, Plataforma de Desarrollo Colectivo, in alliance with the Dominican Association of Short-Term Rentals (Adoreco), El Economista YouTuber, and Fundación Vida Azul — aims to equip the industry for upcoming regulatory shifts and promote responsible, ethical growth throughout the Caribbean.
Its central goal: to spark a high-level conversation on how the Dominican Republic can lead the region in regenerative, professional, and sustainable hospitality — one that respects communities, values hosts, and ensures guests enjoy authentic, quality experiences.
Agenda Highlights & Industry Impact
According to organizers, Conexión Wave Fest 2025 will bring together hosts, investors, technology platforms, real estate experts, tourism authorities, and hospitality associations. The mission is to collectively design a new blueprint for the short-term rental ecosystem — one that balances economic opportunity with environmental and community well-being.
Panels and discussions will explore topics such as:
- The evolving regulatory landscape for digital rentals in the Caribbean.
- Professionalization and ethics in property hosting.
- The role of technology and data-driven management in modern hospitality.
- Sustainability and cultural integration within tourist destinations.
By fostering collaboration among local and international stakeholders, the event aims to position the Dominican Republic as a regional leader in responsible short-term rental management.
What Makes Conexión Wave Fest 2025 Important
As Punta Cana continues to attract investors and travelers from around the world, understanding the balance between growth and governance has never been more crucial. Conexión Wave Fest 2025 represents a historic step towards a more organized, transparent, and resilient short-term rental industry — one ready to adapt to global trends while reinforcing the Dominican Republic’s reputation as the Caribbean’s premier real estate and tourism hub.
📍 Venue: Chic Cabaret Restaurant, Palladium Hotels, Punta Cana
📅 Dates: November 8–9, 2025
🎙️ Event: First International Short-Term Rental Forum — Conexión Wave Fest 2025