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Tourism Supports Up to 605,000 Jobs in the Dominican Republic
Tourism continued to strengthen its role as one of the Dominican Republic's largest economic drivers, supporting an estimated 605,000 jobs by July while hotels generated more than 183,000 direct positions and contributed billions of pesos in tax revenue.
The Dominican Republic’s tourism industry supported an estimated 605,000 people through direct economic activity as of July, underscoring the sector’s importance as a major source of employment and income across the country.
Figures released by the Ministry of Tourism show that hotels alone accounted for more than 183,000 direct jobs during the month. Kitchen operations represented the largest employment area within hotel properties, providing work for 42,460 people.
The ministry also reported that the tourism industry contributed RD$8.729 billion in tax revenue during the same period, highlighting the sector’s significant impact on public finances in addition to generating foreign exchange and supporting local businesses.
Tourism’s Impact Extends Beyond Hotels
Officials emphasized that every visitor arriving in the Dominican Republic creates economic activity that reaches far beyond hotels and resorts. Tourist spending supports restaurants, transportation providers, beach vendors, tour guides, retailers, and other small businesses that depend on a steady flow of domestic and international travelers.
During a Ministry of Tourism press conference, several tourism workers shared their experiences to illustrate how the industry’s growth has improved livelihoods in local communities.
Local Entrepreneurs Benefit From Tourism Development
Among them was Yanira Eusebio, a beverage vendor at Guayacanes Beach, who said improvements made to the beachfront by the Ministry of Tourism, combined with customer service training, transformed her business.
Eusebio explained that the renovated commercial space and professional training allowed her to increase her income and provide greater financial stability for her family, including supporting the education of her youngest daughter. She said the experience enabled her to transition from informal work into entrepreneurship.
Her testimony reflects the broader strategy of combining tourism infrastructure projects with workforce training to expand economic opportunities for communities that depend on the sector.
A Key Pillar of the Dominican Economy
Tourism remains one of the Dominican Republic’s leading economic sectors, generating employment, tax revenue, and business opportunities throughout the country. The latest figures reinforce its role not only as a source of foreign visitors but also as a driver of income for hundreds of thousands of workers and entrepreneurs linked to the industry’s value chain.
