Punta Cana.- Former Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal officially inaugurated Zel Punta Cana, his first hotel in the Americas under the brand he co-owns with Meliá Hotels International. The launch event was attended by Dominican President Luis Abinader, Minister of Tourism David Collado, and Meliá CEO Gabriel Escarrer, highlighting the project’s significance for the country’s tourism and economy. Abinader praised Nadal’s investment, reinforcing the Dominican Republic’s status as a top Caribbean destination.
Located on Playa Bávaro, Zel Punta Cana offers a luxury all-inclusive experience with 190 rooms, expansive terraces, direct pool access, and a fusion of Mediterranean and Caribbean cuisine. Nadal emphasized that the resort embodies relaxed sophistication, combining sports, gastronomy, and leisure to reflect Mediterranean culture in a tropical paradise.
As Nadal transitions from a legendary 22-time Grand Slam champion to a businessman, his focus remains on sports and hospitality. Expressing gratitude to the Dominican people, he described their warm welcome as a key part of making this project a reality.
