Abinader begins construction of the Meliá Bergantín Beach Hotel in Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata.- With an investment exceeding US$100 million, President Luis Abinader launched construction of the Meliá Bergantín Beach Hotel, a project developed by Puntacana Group and Meliá Hotels International. The initiative marks the beginning of a new stage for Dominican tourism, promoting the sustainable Punta Bergantín model and the rebirth of Puerto Plata. The project is expected to generate more than RD$500 million in payroll and create significant local employment.

During the ceremony, Abinader emphasized that Punta Bergantín represents the relaunch of hotel tourism in Puerto Plata, a region already thriving in real estate and cruise tourism. He highlighted the alliance between the Spanish hotel chain Meliá and the Dominican Rainieri family as a guarantee of success. The president also announced upcoming developments from international brands like Westin and Hyatt, further solidifying the area’s revival.

The project, developed through a public-private partnership, involves no government cost and will stimulate economic growth and investment. Abinader also announced the construction of the Amber Highway, linking Santiago, Moca, and Puerto Plata to improve connectivity for tourists and investors, along with efforts to revitalize nearby areas such as Sosúa.

According to Andrés Marranzini Grullón, director of Punta Bergantín, the first phase will add 1,500 rooms and attract 30,000 new tourists annually, increasing Puerto Plata’s share of international visitors from 3% to 9%. Financed by Banco Popular Dominicano and Banreservas, the initiative has already secured over RD$4 billion in closed sales, consolidating its role as a catalyst for the Dominican Republic’s “New North” — a model of private investment, environmental care, and community development.