OFFICIAL STATEMENT

Subject: Emergency Shutdown — Impact on Punta Cana Travel Activities

In light of recent developments and with the safety of all visitors our top priority, the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism issues this official statement to inform travelers, stakeholders, and the general public that an emergency shutdown of certain travel operations in Punta Cana has been necessitated.

This decision has been taken following a series of safety, environmental, and infrastructure concerns. The measures are temporary, but essential, to ensure public safety and maintain the integrity of our tourism sector.

1. Scope of Shutdown

Effective immediately, the following travel‑related operations in Punta Cana are suspended until further notice:

Beach access at designated zones experiencing hazardous sea conditions (strong currents, unpredictable surf).

All non‑critical sea‑based recreational activities (snorkeling, boat tours, jet ski rentals) in affected coastal zones.

Some resort operations in areas with compromised infrastructure (e.g. power, water, or sewage disruptions).

Certain transport services, especially coastal boats and water taxis, where weather and safety inspections have flagged significant risks.

2. Reasons for Action

This shutdown is being implemented in response to:

Adverse maritime conditions: Recent meteorological data and reports from local authorities indicate unusually strong currents and higher surf in coastal waters, making marine activities unsafe.

Infrastructure failures: There have been verified power outages, internal electrical faults, and inconsistencies in safety system performance in several resort properties.

Risk to visitor safety: Incidents of guest injuries / near‑drownings, as well as reports of compromised structural integrity (in some facilities), have made it clear that immediate corrective action is needed.

Regulatory non‑compliance: Some operators are currently unable to meet enhanced safety and regulatory inspection requirements recently instituted by the government in response to earlier tourist incidents.

3. Measures Being Taken

To address these issues, the government is taking the following steps:

Deploying safety teams and inspectors to assess all affected resorts and water‑based activity providers.

Requiring completion of electrical, water, and structural safety audits in all affected zones.

Enforcing red‑flag beach warning systems and ensuring lifeguard coverage meets minimum standards.

Establishing emergency contact centers and hotlines for tourists for assistance, relocation, and information.

Coordinating with meteorological, marine, and environmental agencies to monitor sea conditions and weather threats in real time, and to communicate alerts immediately.

4. Guidance to Travelers

We strongly advise all visitors to Punta Cana to:

Postpone travel plans if possible until the shutdown areas are cleared and declared safe.

If already traveling or present in Punta Cana, avoid moderate or high‑risk marine activity, adhere strictly to red‑flag warnings and lifeguard instructions.

Stay in contact with travel agents, hotels, or tour operators for updated guidance and possible relocation or refunds.

Keep personal documentation and emergency contacts readily available.

5. Commitment

The Ministry reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that Punta Cana remains one of the world’s premier tourist destinations, while also maintaining the highest standards of safety, environment, and guest welfare.

The decision to impose this shutdown was not made lightly but reflects our ongoing dedication to preserving life, health, and reputation. All operations shall resume only when comprehensive safety evaluations confirm that risks have been mitigated.