DR pushes into MICE: presence at IBTM Americas 2026

The Dominican Republic just wrapped up its run at the IBTM Americas 2026 trade show in Mexico City, and my take is that the team didn't go for a stroll. Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) is one of the segments that leaves the most money per visit, and the country is taking it seriously.

According to Dominican Today, the Dominican delegation showcased destinations like Punta Cana, Bávaro, Samaná and Santo Domingo, with its hotels and convention centers. Smart move: MICE is not sun-and-sand tourism, it's a high-budget traveler who makes decisions fast. That's where resorts with big ballrooms and airports with direct flights make the difference.

What I'd call out is that the DR is no longer showing up to ask, but to offer. Hotel infrastructure is there, air connectivity keeps growing, and MITUR knows MICE is a goldmine to extend the season. If hoteliers make the most of the contacts made in Mexico, the next few years look like a packed calendar. I hope we see more of this, because that's how you sell a country with real strategy.