Abinader Touts 2027 UN Tourism Assembly as Chance to Attract Investment

The president presents the global UN Tourism assembly in 2027 as a showcase for the country and for new investment.

President Luis Abinader said the Dominican Republic will host the 27th General Assembly of UN Tourism in 2027, a global event that, he said, will help showcase the country's destinations and attract new investment. The president spoke about the topic in a bilateral meeting with Shaikha Alnuawis, Secretary-General of UN Tourism.

Abinader expressed enthusiasm about welcoming representatives of the international tourism sector. The country has been elected to chair UN Tourism's Regional Commission for the Americas for two consecutive terms. Vice Minister of Tourism for International Cooperation Carlos Peguero also took part in the meeting.

As part of this agenda, the country is working with UN Tourism on the National Tourism Sustainability Policy and the National Tourism Sustainability Strategy, presented as a pilot project of global reach. The cooperation also covers air connectivity, climate resilience, technical assistance, and institutional strengthening of Caribbean destinations.

According to the president, the Dominican Republic has established itself as Latin America's second-largest tourist destination, after Mexico, and expects to receive more than 12 million visitors this year, a figure higher than the national population, estimated at 10.5 million. Abinader credited the growth to tax incentives, investment facilities, and the "Zero Bureaucracy" program, aimed at speeding up permits and procedures.

"We receive more than 5 billion dollars in direct investment every year. And part of that goes to tourism. So, with this set of conditions, we have developed in the past and will continue to develop in the future," the president said. He added that, beyond its beaches, landscapes, and hotel infrastructure, one of the country's greatest distinguishing qualities is the hospitality of its people.