Former Hotel Santo Domingo to be demolished in September for new convention center

Santo Domingo.- Demolition of the former Hotel Santo Domingo is expected to begin within the next three months to make way for the new Santo Domingo Convention Center, a flagship project that Tourism Minister David Collado says will boost business tourism and increase hotel occupancy in the Dominican capital.

Collado explained that the Ministry of Tourism transferred US$18 million to the central government for the acquisition of 24,000 square meters of the property, which was purchased through the National Assets agency. The land will later be transferred to the Development Council, which will oversee the project alongside the Reserve Bank. Architectural and structural plans are currently being developed after the design contract was awarded through a bidding process.

The minister stressed that Santo Domingo lacks a venue capable of hosting major international conventions and large-scale events, limiting the growth of the meetings and business tourism sector. To ensure the project meets international standards, authorities are receiving guidance from IFEMA, one of the world’s leading convention and trade fair operators.

Collado said the convention center is expected to generate significant economic benefits, noting that similar projects in other countries have increased hotel occupancy by between 6% and 7%. He added that the new facility will strengthen Santo Domingo’s position as a destination for international conferences, exhibitions, and entertainment events.