turismo.news September 17, 2026
Investment & M&A1 min read

Paliza says the Ámbar Highway will boost tourism in Santiago and Puerto Plata

JSBy Joan SanzCurated by Joan Sanz. · September 17, 2026 · Follow on LinkedIn
Voice reading · ~1 min

Minister of the Presidency José Ignacio Paliza said the construction of the Ámbar Highway goes beyond an asphalt project: according to remarks reported by Arecoa, the road will work as an axis connecting the industrial heart of the Cibao with the Atlantic coast, and that has a direct read for the tourism business.

The link between Santiago and Puerto Plata has been on the sector's table for years. A shorter, safer trip changes the math for travelers landing at Cibao International Airport who want to combine city, mountains and beach in one trip. Also for tour operators building circuits through the northern region who today lose billable hours on the road.

Paliza's announcement, shared by Arecoa, points to a broader move: infrastructure as a lever to spread the tourist flow now concentrated in Punta Cana. The read is clear. If the road moves forward on real timelines, Santiago gains weight as a gateway and Puerto Plata regains centrality on the Dominican vacation map. That opens room for hotel investment, for small local operators and for provincial coffers.

Quick questions

What did José Ignacio Paliza say about the Ámbar Highway?
The Minister of the Presidency said the road will accelerate tourism development in Santiago and Puerto Plata, according to remarks reported by Arecoa. The project is framed as an axis connecting the Cibao with the north coast.
How does the Ámbar Highway benefit tourism in Puerto Plata?
Puerto Plata gains accessibility from Cibao Airport and Santiago, making combined city, mountain and beach circuits easier. Less time on the road means more days on site and more spending in destination.
What does Santiago gain from the link to Puerto Plata?
Santiago strengthens its role as a gateway to the country's north. Travelers landing in the Cibao can add Atlantic beach to their route without depending on a domestic flight or a long transfer.
What opportunities does the Ámbar Highway open for hoteliers and tour operators?
Northern circuits with fewer bus hours, packages mixing Santiago and Puerto Plata, and new demand for boutique hotels and local experiences. The operator who builds product before the road is ready arrives with an edge.
Does the Ámbar Highway change the Dominican tourism map versus Punta Cana?
It aims to spread the flow now concentrated in the East. If the project advances on real timelines, the north gains weight and the country offers an alternative route that widens the offer beyond sun and beach.

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