PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic – In a groundbreaking move to strengthen the local tourism workforce, Meliá Hotels International and the National Institute for Technical and Professional Training (INFOTEP) have partnered to launch a new Hospitality and Tourism Training School in Punta Cana. The initiative is designed to meet the rising demand for skilled professionals in the Dominican Republic’s ever-expanding tourism sector.
A Strategic Alliance to Elevate Hospitality Standards in Punta Cana
This ambitious collaboration brings together one of the world’s leading hotel chains and the Dominican Republic’s top vocational training institution. As Meliá continues to grow its presence in the Caribbean, the company recognizes the critical need for a well-trained, local workforce.
The future training school will focus not only on Meliá staff development but also on the professional growth of their families and community members. By improving access to career-focused education, the project will empower Punta Cana residents and contribute directly to local economic progress.
Hands-On Hospitality Education with a Global Outlook
The planned curriculum covers essential areas of hospitality, including:
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Culinary arts
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Bar and restaurant service
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Front desk and reception operations
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Professional housekeeping
To ensure that students are prepared for the global hospitality market, the courses will combine theoretical instruction with practical experience. Emphasis will also be placed on English language training and digital literacy, key skills needed in today’s fast-paced tourism industry.
Training the Next Generation of Punta Cana Tourism Professionals
With the Dominican Republic tourism sector booming, the new school aims to create a robust pipeline of local talent ready to step into operational roles. This effort is expected to raise service standards not just in Meliá properties, but across the hospitality industry nationwide.
INFOTEP will provide the expert trainers, course materials, and technical equipment. Meanwhile, Meliá will offer its facilities as the physical home of the training center, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the country.
Opening Set for Fall 2025
Construction and setup of the Hospitality and Tourism Training School are already underway, with the official launch scheduled for fall 2025. Once operational, the center will become a leading hub for hospitality education in Punta Cana, setting a national example for public-private partnerships in workforce development.
Leaders Speak on the Vision Behind the Project
Gabriel Escarrer Jaume, CEO of Meliá Hotels International, emphasized the company’s dedication to empowering local communities. “This school reflects our deep belief in the Dominican people’s potential,” he said. “It’s a dream we’ve nurtured for years—to create a space where future hospitality leaders are born.”
Rafael Santos Badía, INFOTEP’s general director, praised the collaboration. “By combining classroom knowledge with real-world experience, we’re delivering training that truly prepares people for success in the tourism sector,” he explained.
Why This Matters for the Dominican Republic
Tourism remains one of the Dominican Republic’s most vital industries, contributing significantly to GDP and job creation. With Punta Cana as a leading destination, the region’s need for qualified hospitality professionals is more urgent than ever.
By offering local training grounded in international hospitality standards, this new school will ensure that Dominican talent stays competitive in a global market. It also offers youth and adults in Punta Cana an accessible pathway to stable, rewarding careers.
Punta Cana’s Future: Skilled, Trained, and Ready
This initiative between Meliá Hotels and INFOTEP is more than an education program—it’s an investment in people. It strengthens the foundations of Punta Cana’s tourism industry and opens doors for hundreds of aspiring professionals.
As we look ahead to 2025, all eyes will be on Punta Cana—not just for its beaches, but for its commitment to building a smarter, stronger hospitality future.
