Dominican Republic prepares to welcome thousands of athletes for Santo Domingo 2026 Games

Santo Domingo.- Las Américas International Airport (AILA) will begin welcoming approximately 6,500 athletes, coaches, officials, and delegation members on July 17 as the Dominican Republic prepares to host the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026 from July 24 to August 8.

The arrivals mark the start of a large-scale logistics and security operation to facilitate the entry of thousands of participants traveling on commercial and private flights. The event is expected to transform the Dominican Republic into the region’s sports hub while providing a major boost to tourism and the local economy.

AILA will serve as the primary entry point, with more than 8,000 arrivals expected. Punta Cana International Airport is projected to receive around 3,000 visitors, while La Isabela International Airport will handle approximately 800, according to local reports.

To ensure smooth operations, authorities have coordinated efforts among the Specialized Airport and Civil Aviation Security Corps (CESAC), General Directorate of Migration (DGM), General Directorate of Customs (DGA), Aerodom, Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC), Civil Aviation Board (JAC), National Police, Ministry of Defense, Airport Department, and other government agencies.

The operation is designed to expedite immigration, customs, and security procedures while facilitating the transport of athletes, coaches, sports equipment, and competition materials to official hotels and athletes’ villages.

Hosting the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games is also expected to increase hotel occupancy, passenger traffic, and business activity, further strengthening the Dominican Republic’s position as a leading destination for international sporting events and sports tourism.