turismo.news August 31, 2026
Tourism PolicyPublished August 31, 20261 min read

10-year gambling moratorium: what it means for hotels

JSBy Joan SanzCurated by Joan Sanz. · August 31, 2026 · Follow on LinkedIn
Voice reading · ~1 min

The Chamber of Deputies approved a gambling bill that imposes a 10-year moratorium on new licenses for betting establishments nationwide. The exception, and this is what matters to me, are casinos inside hotels and tourist areas. According to Dominican Today, the measure aims to bring order to a sector that grew without limits. I read this as a boost for tourism: hotel complexes can keep their entertainment offering without unfair competition from street-level betting shops.

For hotel investors, this is a sign of stability. If your project includes a casino, you're clear. If not, the moratorium reduces noise and saturation in destinations like Punta CanaPunta CanaThe main tourism hub of the Dominican Republic, on the eastern tip, famous for white-sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts and its own international airport. or BávaroBávaroA beach area next to Punta Cana with one of the Caribbean's largest hotel clusters and a long white-sand shoreline.. Regulated gambling inside the resort remains a draw for travelers, now with less external competition.

What's next? The Senate needs to give the green light, and hoteliers should know that their on-site gambling offering is a competitive advantage, not a headache. Dominican tourism is playing to win again.

Quick questions

What is the 10-year gambling moratorium in the DR?
It's a proposed law approved by the Chamber of Deputies that bans new licenses for betting establishments for 10 years. The exception is casinos inside hotels and tourist areas.
Does the moratorium affect hotel casinos?
No. Casinos located in hotels and resorts are exempt. This protects the entertainment offering of resorts and gives them an edge over street-level betting shops.
Why is this good news for Dominican tourism?
Because it brings stability to the hotel sector, reduces the saturation of betting shops in destinations, and boosts the appeal of resorts with on-site casinos.
When does the moratorium take effect?
Not yet. The bill was approved by deputies and now must be debated and voted on in the Senate. If approved, it will take effect after the Executive's promulgation.
What should hoteliers do about this law?
Keep a close eye on the legislative process and, if their resort has or plans a casino, be ready to comply with regulations. The measure gives them a clear competitive edge over external betting shops.

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