Uvero Alto, Punta Cana — President Luis Abinader declared the Dominican Republic the top investment destination in Latin America as he inaugurated the W Punta Cana, Adult All-Inclusive—a US$160 million luxury resort backed by Marriott International, Grupo Puntacana, and Mac Hotels. He underscored that the project, launched in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, is a testament to investor confidence and a catalyst for tourism growth and national economic strength.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Abinader highlighted the surge of U.S. hotel brands expanding across the country, noting that the Dominican Republic now ranks second in Latin America—behind only Mexico—for U.S. tourism investment. He revealed that 15,000 new hotel rooms are currently under construction nationwide, with 6,000 slated to open this year. This pipeline, he said, will translate into thousands of high-quality jobs, greater economic resilience, and broader opportunities for local communities.
Set on Uvero Alto’s serene coastline, the W Punta Cana adds a bold, lifestyle-driven concept to the region’s hospitality mix. The adults-only resort features 340 rooms and suites, 12 dining venues, and the high-end AWAY Spa, positioning itself as an immersive escape centered on music, wellness, design, and contemporary Dominican flair.
Tourism leaders lauded the administration’s sustained commitment to the sector. Frank Elías Rainieri, president and CEO of Grupo Puntacana, praised government policy continuity and described tourism as “a model of leadership and resilience” for the wider region. Tourism Minister David Collado welcomed the arrival of W Hotels as a landmark for the Dominican Republic’s evolving all-inclusive segment, signaling stronger brand diversity and elevated service standards.
- Investment momentum: The W Punta Cana’s opening reinforces Punta Cana–Bávaro–Uvero Alto as the country’s flagship tourism corridor, drawing global brands and high-spend travelers.
- Jobs and training: New room inventory and brand entries are expected to drive recruitment, upskilling, and supplier development for local businesses.
- Market positioning: With lifestyle-led, adults-only, and luxury all-inclusive products expanding, the Dominican Republic is sharpening its competitive edge against top Caribbean and Latin American destinations.
