He argued that the next step for that district is to implement more coordinated work between the sectors
SANTO DOMINGO.- The eastern region of the Dominican Republic has undergone an unprecedented transformation, consolidating itself as one of the main tourist centers of the Caribbean, with sustained expansion in infrastructure, connectivity, real estate development and job creation.
However, its growth also poses an unavoidable challenge: to move towards higher levels of planning and territorial organization that guarantee its sustainability over time.
This is the view of Fernando Hazoury, president of the Board of Directors of Cap Cana, who pointed out that this development cannot be limited to growth, but must be done in an orderly fashion, under a clear vision and with rules that are respected.
Articulated work, the next step
The tourism entrepreneur argued that the next step for the eastern region is to implement a more coordinated effort between sectors, aimed at consolidating a structured development model, similar to that of major destinations that have evolved in an organized manner under master plans.
“Experience has shown that when there is coordination, planning, and joint commitment, the results are not only visible but also sustainable. Cap Cana, for example, is a destination that was conceptualized from day one based on a master plan, planned and organized in stages of development, with one hundred percent private investments and a model in which the infrastructure for services and amenities was developed first, and subsequently the development of products to be sold,” he added.
After detailing the path the brand he leads has taken to align itself with market demands and diversify its offerings, Hazoury explained that he aspires to begin offering other types of tourism in the near future, such as health tourism, cultural tourism, and others they have planned. “We are a community where you can live, work, enjoy yourself, relax, and travel,” he emphasized.
A key driver of the economy
The businessman opined that tourism, along with the development of large-scale tourism and real estate projects, continues to be one of the main drivers of the national economy, due to its significant cross-cutting impact on job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and the revitalization of multiple productive sectors such as agriculture, industry, transportation, and services.
“Dominican tourism is not a promise, it is an undeniable reality. It is an industry that has demonstrated, for decades, its ability to resist, adapt and continue growing, even in adverse scenarios,” he said.
He added that the sustained growth of the eastern region of the country is a tangible example of what can be achieved when there is a shared vision between the private sector, the State and the various industries.
Hazoury emphasized the need to preserve a climate of stability and confidence that will allow the country to continue attracting foreign investment and strengthening its position as a competitive international destination, highlighting the role of major tourism developments.
“For example, in Cap Cana we currently have more than 9,000 rooms in operation between real estate and hotels, and it is projected that there will be more than 15,000 in the next 36 months, thus surpassing the number currently existing in beautiful destinations that began tourism approximately 50 years ago, such as the Province of Samaná and Bayahíbe, among others. And all this translates into many other benefits, including a direct and indirect economic impact on other industrial sectors of the country.”.
Resilient tourism
Fernando Hazoury highlighted the resilience of the Dominican tourism sector, particularly over the past six years, a period in which the country has faced complex global challenges, from health crises to international economic pressures, managing not only to recover but to emerge stronger. “As I always maintain, tourism is our oil. That is why, at a time like this, it is essential to act with prudence, consistency, and a long-term vision, always prioritizing the country's interests,” he emphasized.
The businessman praised the joint work carried out by the State and the private sector, noting that this synergy has been key to consolidating the country as one of the most competitive tourist destinations in the region.
Maintain a unified approach
Given the current international landscape, marked by economic uncertainty, inflationary pressures, and shifts in global markets, Hazoury reiterated the importance of maintaining a unified approach: “Now more than ever, the country needs cohesion. All sectors must work in alignment, with responsibility and a sense of purpose, understanding that tourism is not an isolated sector, but rather a structure that underpins a large part of our economy,” he stated.
He concluded that the Dominican Republic country brand, built over years of strategic promotion, along with legal security and a privileged geographical location, continue to be key factors in maintaining the destination's competitiveness.
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