Through 11 projects in its pipeline, the hotel group strengthens its presence in the country
The Dominican Republic has become a strategic tourism hub for Hilton. The U.S.-based hotel chain has allocated more than one-third of its rooms currently in design and construction across the Caribbean region to this market, with 11 upcoming projects that will increase its room inventory from 1,400 to 2,000.
With a growing focus on luxury and wellness tourism, Hilton has developed its first all-inclusive property in the country under its Curio Collection by Hilton brand: the Zemí Miches All-Inclusive Resort.
Within five months of its opening, the property has contributed to increasing hotel occupancy levels to as high as 94% as of February of this year, according to the Ministry of Tourism.
“Miches is a new destination within the Dominican Republic, and we are truly proud of this property,” stated Pablo Maturana, Vice President of Development for Hilton in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The executive also highlighted the company’s interest in continuing to expand its footprint along the eastern coast, while strategically targeting long-term opportunities in destinations such as Las Terrenas—where a branded residences concept is planned—and Puerto Plata, where investment opportunities are currently under evaluation.
The Success of Zemí Miches
According to Maturana, Zemí Miches All-Inclusive Resort has successfully achieved its positioning goals, standing out among hospitality offerings in the Dominican Republic due to its design seamlessly integrated with the natural environment and its incorporation of Taíno culture across both its concept and culinary experience, as well as the sense of privacy offered in each space.
The property has been carefully designed not only to differentiate itself through its positioning and pristine beaches, but also through its architectural elements and operational approach, allowing guests to experience authentic Dominican culture in a meaningful way.
With an offering of 500 luxury rooms, beachfront bungalows, a restaurant concept such as Toa—designed to reinterpret Taíno cuisine—and Acana, a 1,600-square-meter spa incorporating local elements such as larimar stones and moringa oils, the all-inclusive resort has experienced strong and rapid market acceptance.
Maturana also emphasized the valuable contribution of local consultants and chefs, whose expertise helped authentically integrate Taíno cultural elements into the hotel’s design and experience—reviving a heritage that had, in many ways, faded over time in the country.
Branded Residences in Las Terrenas
As part of its strategic focus on the luxury segment, Hilton plans to expand its Curio Collection brand into Las Terrenas with the Almare Beach Resort Las Terrenas, a 252-room property that will also feature branded luxury residences.
This project represents Hilton’s first entry into Las Terrenas, a destination where the company has identified strong long-term growth potential.
“Our expansion decisions are based on long-term vision rather than short-term conditions. In this context, Las Terrenas offers both natural and cultural appeal, making it an attractive destination for continued growth in the Dominican Republic,” Maturana noted.
Puerto Plata in Focus
The executive also underscored Hilton’s interest in Puerto Plata as a key potential market, which the company has been monitoring for some time with the intention of establishing a presence—particularly with interest in developments such as Punta Bergantín.
“This is a project that will undoubtedly continue to strengthen and position Puerto Plata as a highly attractive destination for the market,” Maturana stated. “Beyond Punta Bergantín itself, Hilton’s interest and appetite to enter Puerto Plata remain strong.”
In addition to Puerto Plata, Maturana highlighted ongoing initiatives to introduce the Tru by Hilton brand in the country, with projects currently in design and construction in both Santo Domingo and Punta Cana.
He also noted Hilton’s continued expansion in Santiago, following the successful performance of the Hotel Santiago by Curio Collection—now celebrating its first year of operations—and the Hampton hotel, inaugurated last September.
Regional Expansion
During 2025, Hilton surpassed 300 operating hotels across 35 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, reinforcing its strong regional presence. Notably, one in every five hotel developments in the region is currently under this brand.
More than half of last year’s openings were driven by the luxury and lifestyle segment, reflecting growing traveler demand for increasingly personalized experiences that prioritize authentic local engagement.
Looking ahead to 2026, the company has further expanded its portfolio with the addition of more than 150 properties.
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