Dominican Republic
Region
🌍 Americas
Population
👥 11
Currency
💱 Dominican peso
Languages
🗣️ Spanish
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The Dominican Republic, a Caribbean jewel, beckons with its pristine beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant culture. It's famously known for its stunning coastline, featuring miles of white-sand beaches perfect for relaxation and water sports. The island's interior offers diverse landscapes, from the soaring peaks of the Cordillera Central to fertile valleys and dense rainforests. A first-time visitor can expect a warm Caribbean welcome, a rich history influenced by Spanish and African heritage, and a lively atmosphere fueled by merengue and bachata music. Prepare for a sensory feast of colorful towns, delicious cuisine, and the infectious rhythm of island life.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Dominican Republic
Continent
America
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Dominican
Independence
February 27, 1844
Top-Level Domain
.do
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+1
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC-04:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Santo Domingo
ISO Alpha-2
DO
ISO Alpha-3
DOM
UN Code
214
Geographic Coordinates
19,-70.66666666
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
48,671#132 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
11,532,151#85 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
235.10
Highest Point (m)
Pico Duarte, 3,098 meters
Lowest Point (m)
Lago Enriquillo, -46 meters
Land Use
Agricultural land, forests, and urban areas
Irrigated Land
Approximately 2,100 square kilometers (2012)
Coastline Length
1,288 kilometers
Climate
Tropical maritime; hot, humid summers; cooler winters
Natural Resources
Nickel, bauxite, gold, silver
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Haiti
Major Rivers
Yaque del Norte, Yuna, Ozama
Major Lakes
Lago Enriquillo
Government Type
Representative democracy
Administrative Divisions
31 provinces and one national district
Legal System
Based on Spanish civil law
Chief of State
President Luis Abinader
Head of Government
President Luis Abinader
Cabinet
Council of Ministers, appointed by the President
Elections
President and Congress elected every four years
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court of Justice
Legislative Branch
Bicameral National Congress (Senate and Chamber of Deputies)
Major Political Parties
Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM), Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), Social Christian Reformist Party (PRSC)
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Dominican peso
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
127.41#66 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
330.88#64 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
11,059.21#98 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
4.6
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
28.42
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
60.1
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
3.87#69 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
5,512,758
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
5.09#94 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (1999)Checked September 29, 2026
16.42
Budget
The Dominican Republic's budget includes allocations for education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other government services.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
30.12#83 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
35.49#75 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Approximately $15 billion (2023).
Currency Exchange
Exchange rates for the Dominican Peso (DOP) can be found at major banks and online currency converters.
GDP by Sector
Services, tourism, industry, and agriculture are major sectors.
Major Industries
Tourism, sugar processing, gold mining, textiles, and construction.
Major Export Partners
United States, Haiti, Canada, and Switzerland.
Major Import Partners
United States, China, Venezuela, and Mexico.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Literacy rate, adult total (% of people ages 15 and above) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
94.03#84 of 169
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
17.6
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
6.2
Net Migration Rate
Approximately -1 per 1,000 population.
Median Age
Approximately 30 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
72.52#80 of 214
Urbanization Rate
Approximately 1.1% annual rate of change.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
73.9#114 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
Less than 1%.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
4.6
Ethnic Groups
Mixed (mestizo), White, Black.
Religions
Predominantly Roman Catholic.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
Spanish
Education
Education System
The Dominican Republic's education system is divided into pre-primary, primary, secondary, and higher education. Public education is free, but resources can be limited.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2017)Checked September 29, 2026
14.2
Government Education Spending
Government expenditure on education is approximately 2.9% of GDP.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo (UASD), Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM), and Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo (INTEC).
Culture
Cultural Overview
Dominican culture blends indigenous Taíno, African, and Spanish influences. Music, dance, and vibrant festivals are central to the culture.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- Día de Año Nuevo (2026-01-01)
- Día de Reyes (2026-01-06)
- Día de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia (2026-01-21)
- Día del Natalicio de Juan Pablo Duarte (2026-01-26)
- Día de la Independencia de la República Dominicana (2026-02-27)
- Good Friday (2026-04-03)
- Día del Trabajador (2026-05-01)
- Día de las Madres (2026-05-28)
- Corpus Christi (2026-06-04)
- Día de la Restauración Dominicana (2026-08-16)
- Nuestra Senora de las Mercedes (2026-09-24)
- Día de la Constitución (2026-11-06)
Popular Music
Merengue and Bachata are the most popular music genres.
Traditional Food
Sancocho (stew), La Bandera Dominicana (rice, beans, meat), and Mofongo (mashed plantains).
Sports
Baseball is the national sport, followed by basketball.
Major Festivals
Carnival (throughout February), Merengue Festival (Santo Domingo), and Puerto Plata Festival.
Famous People
Juan Luis Guerra (musician), Oscar de la Renta (fashion designer), and Sammy Sosa (baseball player).
Cultural Heritage Sites
Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo.
UNESCO Sites
Colonial City of Santo Domingo.
Annual Tourist Visits
around 8 million/year
Tourism Overview
The Dominican Republic caters to a wide range of travelers, from luxury resort seekers to adventure enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Beach holidays are paramount, with the eastern coast, particularly Punta Cana, being a major draw for sun-seekers. For those interested in history and culture, Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone is a must-visit. Adventure travelers can explore the country's mountainous interior for hiking and ziplining, or head to the Samaná Peninsula for whale watching and exploring natural wonders. The northern coast offers a mix of beaches and colonial charm. Typical trips range from week-long resort stays to longer itineraries combining different regions to experience the island's diverse offerings.
Top Tourist Attractions
- Colonial Zone, Santo Domingo: Explore the oldest European-established city in the Americas.
- Punta Cana Beaches: Relax on world-renowned stretches of white sand and turquoise waters.
- El Limón Waterfall: Hike or horseback ride to this spectacular cascading waterfall on the Samaná Peninsula.
- Los Haitises National Park: Discover mangrove forests, caves with indigenous art, and abundant birdlife.
- Playa Rincón, Samaná: Often cited as one of the world's most beautiful beaches.
- Mount Isabel de Torres, Puerto Plata: Take a cable car to the summit for panoramic views and a Christ the Redeemer statue.
- Zona Colonial, Puerto Plata: Wander through the historic center and visit the San Felipe Fortress.
- Las Ballenas (Whale Watching) in Samaná Bay: Witness humpback whales during their breeding season.
- Hoyo Azul Lagoon: Swim in a cenote with crystal-clear turquoise water near Punta Cana.
- Kviar Show Disco & Casino, Santo Domingo: Experience Dominican nightlife and entertainment.
Famous Cities
Santo Domingo, the vibrant capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting the historic Colonial Zone with its ancient architecture and lively plazas. Punta Cana is synonymous with all-inclusive resorts and stretches of powdery white sand, ideal for beach lovers. Puerto Plata, on the northern coast, offers a mix of beaches, historical sites like the San Felipe Fortress, and the Isabel de Torres mountain cable car. Las Terrenas, on the Samaná Peninsula, is known for its bohemian vibe and stunning, less-crowded beaches. Samaná town itself is a gateway to whale watching and the natural beauty of the peninsula.
National Parks
- Los Haitises National Park: Protects mangrove ecosystems, diverse birdlife, and ancient caves.
- Jaragua National Park: Features coastal lagoons, diverse flora and fauna, and indigenous cave paintings.
- Armando Bermúdez National Park: Home to Pico Duarte, the Caribbean's highest peak, and lush forests.
- Sierra de Bahoruco National Park: An important biodiversity hotspot with unique plant and animal species.
- El Choco National Park: Offers caves, waterfalls, and hiking trails near Sosúa.
- Parque Nacional Valle Nuevo: Known for its pine forests, endemic species, and dramatic landscapes.
- Lagunas de Cabral National Park: Features a large freshwater lake and important bird habitats.
Protected Areas
—
Best Time to Visit
The Dominican Republic enjoys a tropical climate year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. For beach holidays, the dry season from December to April offers sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, avoiding the heavier rains. This period also aligns with peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices. The shoulder months of May and November can offer a good balance of good weather and fewer tourists. For whale watching in Samaná Bay, the prime season is from January to March. Hikers might prefer the slightly cooler and drier months of the dry season, though rainfall can occur in the mountainous interior any time of year. Festival enthusiasts should aim for February for Carnival celebrations.
Tourist Visa Info
Most tourists can enter the Dominican Republic visa-free for short stays, typically up to 30 days, for purposes of tourism. This period can often be extended upon application. Visitors are generally required to complete an electronic entry and exit form prior to arrival, which covers immigration, customs, and health declarations. Proof of sufficient funds and onward or return tickets may be requested at immigration. It's imperative to confirm the exact requirements based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit through official Dominican government sources before your trip.
Visa Requirements Overview
Many nationalities can enter the Dominican Republic for tourism purposes without a visa for stays up to 30 days, which can often be extended. Common examples include citizens of the United States, Canada, and most European Union countries. However, visa requirements are strictly based on nationality, and it's crucial for all travelers to verify the specific regulations for their country of origin well in advance of travel. Tourists may be asked to show proof of onward or return travel and sufficient funds to cover their stay. Always check the latest official government advisories for the most accurate information.
Travel Advisory
Travelers to the Dominican Republic should exercise normal precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and take steps to safeguard your belongings. It's recommended to stick to established tourist areas and use reputable transportation services. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. While the country is generally welcoming to tourists, being informed and cautious contributes to a safer travel experience. Familiarize yourself with local customs and laws to avoid any misunderstandings.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
The healthcare quality index varies depending on the specific service and location within the country.
Medical Cost
Medical costs vary depending on the service and provider.
Number of Hospitals
There are many hospitals throughout the Dominican Republic, both public and private.
Universal Healthcare
The Dominican Republic's healthcare system is a mix of public and private providers, with a focus on universal health coverage. The government provides subsidized healthcare.
Medical Services Overview
Medical services range from public to private, with varying levels of quality and accessibility.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are available, with varying response times depending on location.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
911
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
911
Emergency Number (Fire)
911
Crime Rate
—
Safety Index
—
Military Expenditure
—
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services are available throughout the Dominican Republic, though response times can vary, especially in remote areas. The primary emergency number connects to dispatchers who can coordinate police, ambulance, or fire services. For medical emergencies, private hospitals in major tourist areas often have better equipped facilities and English-speaking staff. Tourists are advised to carry their travel insurance details and contact information for their embassy or consulate in case of a serious incident.
Safety Overview
The Dominican Republic is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas and cities, so keeping valuables secure and out of sight is important. Be cautious of common tourist scams, particularly those involving unsolicited help or overly friendly strangers offering deals. It's advisable to stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night, and avoid displaying excessive wealth. Using reputable transportation services and being aware of your itinerary can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Military Branches
—
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
—
Water Access
—
Sanitation Access
—
Railways
Limited railway infrastructure, primarily used for tourism and cargo transport in specific areas.
Roadways
Road conditions in the Dominican Republic vary significantly. Major highways connecting large cities are generally well-maintained, though they can be busy with a mix of cars, motorcycles, trucks, and guaguas. Rural roads and those in smaller towns can be unpaved or in poorer condition. Speed limits are often not strictly enforced, and driving styles can be assertive. Tolls are common on major highways, payable in Dominican pesos. Self-driving can be an option for adventurous travelers comfortable with navigating busy traffic and less predictable road users, but it requires a high degree of caution and defensive driving.
Transportation System
Transportation includes buses (Guaguas), taxis, publicos (shared taxis), and private vehicles. Santo Domingo has a metro system.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Casa De Campo International Airport (LRM), Cibao International Airport (STI), Las Américas International Airport (SDQ), Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), Cabo Rojo Airport (CBJ), Gregorio Luperon International Airport (POP)
Ports
—
Public Transit
Public transportation in major Dominican cities, especially Santo Domingo, primarily consists of 'guaguas' (minibuses) and 'taxis colectivos' (shared taxis). Santo Domingo also has a Metro system, which is efficient and modern, connecting key areas. Ticketing for guaguas is usually paid in cash directly to the driver upon boarding, with fares being quite affordable. Taxis can be hailed on the street or found at designated stands; negotiating the fare before starting your journey is highly recommended, or opt for metered taxis if available. For tourists, understanding the routes and being prepared for crowded conditions is key. It's advisable to learn a few basic Spanish phrases to communicate with drivers and fellow passengers.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
91#55 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
—
Tech Startups
—
Innovation Index
—
ICT Development Index
—
TV Broadcast Stations
—
Radio Broadcast Stations
—
Plug Type & Voltage
Type A and B, 110V, 60Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
2.99#93 of 202
Air Quality Index
Generally good in coastal and mountainous areas, can be moderate in urban centers due to vehicle emissions.
Water Pollution Level
Tap water is not generally recommended for drinking; bottled water is widely available and advised for consumption. Coastal waters are generally clean in resort areas but can be affected by runoff in other locations.
Renewable Energy Usage
—
Environmental Issues
—
Natural Hazards
The Dominican Republic is located in a hurricane-prone region, with the hurricane season officially running from June 1st to November 30th. Tropical storms and hurricanes can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges, potentially causing flooding and significant disruption. Earthquakes are also a possibility, though major seismic events are infrequent. Landslides can occur in mountainous areas during heavy rainfall. Travelers should stay informed about weather forecasts, especially during the hurricane season, and be aware of local emergency procedures.
Waste Management
Waste management infrastructure can vary significantly between urban and rural areas. In major tourist hubs and resorts, waste collection is generally efficient. However, in less developed areas, littering can be an issue, and recycling programs may be limited or non-existent. Travelers are encouraged to minimize their waste, properly dispose of trash in designated bins, and consider reusable items where possible to help protect the environment.
Environmental Agreements
—
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
—
International Organizations
—
Major Treaties
—
Visa-Free Countries
—