Jamaica’s tourism sector is set for a significant boost with the announcement of an increase in room count by 2,000 this year. Additionally, a massive 20,000 rooms are expected to be added in the next five to ten years. This expansion is primarily driven by new projects in or near Montego Bay, a key tourist destination in the region. Tourism minister Edmund Bartlett highlighted the importance of this growth, with a significant portion of the new rooms to be located along the prestigious Rose Hall Corridor.
Recent openings such as the Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters and the Riu Palace Aquarelle are just the beginning of the planned developments in the area. The Princess Grand Jamaica Resort, Unico Hotel 18*77* Hotel Montego Bay, and several upscale resorts are set to add a substantial number of rooms to meet the growing demand. The upcoming Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in St. Thomas Parish and the Planet Hollywood Royalton in Trelawny are also part of the expansion strategy.
To accommodate the influx of tourists, a multiphase construction project for a Montego Bay perimeter road is underway, scheduled for completion by May 2026. This infrastructure improvement will ease traffic congestion and enhance connectivity within the region. Additionally, the construction of the luxury residential resort Pinnacle and the Bahia Principe project in St. Ann Parish will further contribute to the development of the area.
In addition to new builds, existing hotels are also undergoing expansions and renovations. The Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort and Spa, Holiday Inn Montego Bay, Sandals projects in Port Antonio and Negril, and the planned Moon Palace are all set to increase their room inventory. Furthermore, the acquisition of the Holiday Inn Montego Bay by Catalonia Resorts and Hotels signals the entry of a new brand into Jamaica’s hospitality industry.
As part of the development plan, the Jamaican government is also focusing on providing housing for hospitality workers. With the construction of 4,000 houses in the St. James area, the government aims to support the growing workforce in the tourism sector. This initiative highlights the importance of sustainable growth and community development in tandem with the expansion of the tourism industry.
Jamaica’s tourism sector is poised for a period of unprecedented growth and development. With ambitious expansion plans, diverse projects, and a focus on infrastructure and workforce support, the future of Jamaican tourism looks promising. By capitalizing on its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Jamaica is set to become a premier destination for travelers seeking luxury, adventure, and relaxation in the Caribbean.
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