PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic – A growing crisis is unfolding at Cana Bay Resort in Punta Cana, where over 300 property owners are raising alarms over what they describe as systematic violations of property rights by the resort’s administration. The homeowners claim that their legal access to properties is being restricted, while those who speak out face pressure and retaliation.
Landowners Accuse Resort Administration of Legal Violations
At the heart of the dispute is a controversial document referred to as a “Protective Regulation.” Property owners allege they are being pressured to sign this regulation, which they argue imposes unfair limitations on their rights and contradicts the terms under which their properties were originally acquired. Those who refuse to sign say they’ve faced restrictive measures, including limited access to their own lots and properties.
These actions, according to the group, amount to a breach of legal security and create an unstable environment for real estate investment in Punta Cana.
Court Ruling Sides with Property Owners, But Issues Persist
In one notable case, a Cana Bay landowner challenged the restrictions in court. The Second Chamber of the Land Court of La Altagracia issued a ruling in favor of the landowner, ordering the administration to remove access restrictions and imposed daily financial penalties for noncompliance.
Despite this legal victory, affected owners say the administration has continued its restrictive and retaliatory practices, raising serious concerns about the enforcement of court decisions in the region.
Growing Investor Concerns in the Dominican Republic
The situation is particularly alarming to foreign investors, many of whom were drawn to Punta Cana for its reputation as a stable and attractive destination for property ownership. Owners warn that the resort’s actions are damaging international confidence in Dominican real estate, especially when legal protections appear to be ignored.
The group also expressed concern over the public promotion of the Cana Bay project in 2023, which featured President Luis Abinader in attendance. Property owners worry that the event gave the impression of government endorsement, potentially misleading investors into believing the development was free of legal complications.
Call for Immediate Government Intervention
In response to the escalating tensions, the group of homeowners is now calling on Dominican authorities to take swift action. They are urging institutions to enforce court rulings, investigate the actions of the Cana Bay administration, and protect the legal rights of property owners.
“Without legal certainty, there is no trust,” said one homeowner, summarizing the growing frustration among investors. The group insists that a lack of oversight could damage not only Cana Bay’s reputation, but also Dominican Republic’s image as a secure place for real estate investment.
