Dominica’s tourism revolution is unfolding through a bold transformation driven by a focus on development, resilience, and innovation. Landmark projects, such as the construction of a new international airport and the installation of the world’s longest mono-detachable cable car, are not only setting the stage for stronger connectivity but also promoting sustainable tourism growth. Furthermore, these initiatives are creating long-term economic opportunities across the island.
Airport Nears 40% Completion as Dominica Gears Up for Global Arrival
Dominica’s new international airport is making good progress and is now more than 40 per cent complete. This is a significant development for tourism and infrastructure. Key work, like drainage, runway grading, and the new passenger terminal, is moving ahead of schedule.
Runway leveling is set to finish by December 2025. This will allow for surface paving, lighting, and more vertical construction. A protective tunnel will run under the runway. It will connect Wesley and Woodford Hill – one of the safety features of this important project.
Construction has already had wide-reaching impacts; consequently, over US $45 million has been disbursed in compensation, and additionally, 47 homes have been built to relocate affected residents. Once operational in 2027, the airport’s 2,850 m runway will, therefore, allow direct flights from Europe and North America, thus ushering in a new era of global accessibility for Dominica.
Record-Breaking Visitor Growth Boosts Confidence
Dominica’s tourism sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. Total visitor arrivals hit 425,155 in 2023/24, an 18 per cent increase over the previous year. In 2024/25, arrivals rose an additional 9.9 per cent, with cruise ship visitors doubling (+83 per cent) and stay-over tourists up 35.1 per cent from pre-pandemic levels.
This upswing not only reflects strong traveler demand; moreover, it highlights Dominica’s growing appeal as a premium ecotourism destination.
ALSO READ: DOMINICA’S ECO-TOURISM SECTOR
Expanded Airline Service and Regional Integration
Air connectivity is improving rapidly. In February 2025, United Airlines launched seasonal nonstop flights from Newark, NJ to Dominica via Boeing 737‑700 aircraft. Caribbean Airlines is expected to start service from San Juan later this year.
Meanwhile, the government is actively negotiating with carriers including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Condor to introduce direct transatlantic flights once the international airport is completed.
Game-Changing Attractions: Cable Car to Boiling Lake
Among the island’s most ambitious tourism projects is a record-setting 4.1-mile (6.6 km) cable car, set to connect the Roseau Valley to the famous Boiling Lake. Once complete, the journey will take just 20 minutes, replacing a strenuous 6-hour hike.
Scheduled to open by late 2026, the cable car is anticipated to attract over 20,000 annual visitors. Consequently, it is set to redefine Dominica’s adventure tourism experience.
This innovative cable car, the world’s longest detachable system, is designed to make one of Dominica’s most coveted natural attractions accessible to all, while offering an unforgettable, eco-friendly experience. Cruise passengers, families, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers will all find something to love in this journey to one of the Caribbean’s most stunning natural wonders.
READ MORE: DOMINICA CABLE CAR PROJECT
Cabrits Marina to Fuel Maritime Growth
The US $201 million Cabrits Marina project is also making steady progress:
- Phase 1 (marina basin and breakwater) concludes by June 2025.
- Phase 2 (core operations) begins January 2026.
- Phase 3 (support infrastructure) will wrap up by November 2026.
With space for yachts up to 150 feet, plus restaurants, shopping, and cultural venues, the marina will transform Portsmouth into a vibrant hub for yachting and waterfront tourism.
500+ New Hotel Rooms Coming Online by 2025
To meet growing demand, Dominica is rapidly expanding its accommodations sector, with over 500 new rooms expected by end of 2025.
Major developments include:
- Anichi Resort & Spa (Autograph Collection by Marriott) – Portsmouth
- Tranquility Beach Resort (Hilton-affiliated) – Salisbury
- Sanctuary Rainforest Eco Resort & Spa – Laudat
- Ocean Edge Hotel – Roseau waterfront
These resorts blend eco-luxury with community-focused design, aligning with Dominica’s sustainable tourism strategy.
ALSO READ: CARIBBEAN REAL ESTATE CITIZENSHIP – INVEST IN DOMINICA
Cruise Port and Road Upgrades Underway
To accommodate the doubling of cruise passenger arrivals, Dominica is planning a full redevelopment of the Roseau Cruise Port, enabling it to host larger vessels and improved shore experiences.
Inland, several major road improvement projects are underway, including:
- East Coast Road rehabilitation
- Loubière–Grand Bay link
- Portsmouth–Hatton Garden upgrades
In tandem, ferry terminals are also being expanded to streamline inter-island movement.
Economic Stimulus and Resilience Initiatives
Dominica’s infrastructure overhaul isn’t limited to tourism. The 2025/26 Budget introduced expanded VAT and import duty exemptions, along with low-interest financing for MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises).
In the energy sector, the island is on track to commission its geothermal power plant by December 2025, placing Dominica on a path to 100% renewable electricity by 2030.
A Future Forged in Connectivity and Sustainability
With its international airport nearing completion, airlift expanding, visitor numbers surging, and groundbreaking tourism projects on the horizon, Dominica is redefining itself as the Caribbean’s most dynamic and resilient destination.
This evolution isn’t just about attracting tourists, it’s about ensuring Dominicans benefit from sustainable growth, new jobs, and greater opportunities.
Tourists to Dominica can explore the island’s nine volcanoes, the bubbling Boiling Lake, black sands and sprawling mountains.
As demand for adventure travel grows across the globe, the rugged and resilient Dominica continues to be among the world’s foremost ecotouristic destinations.