All India, 18 September 2024: Jamaica’s tourism industry is experiencing rapid growth as the island nears a milestone of 2.5 million visitors for 2024, counting both stopover and cruise arrivals. This record-breaking achievement is part of a broader initiative to reach 5 million total visitors by next year.
June saw an impressive 5% increase in international arrivals, and despite the impact of Hurricane Beryl, the island has swiftly recovered to its 2023 levels. The government has launched a hotel expansion plan, with US$ 2.5 billion in new projects underway. These developments aim to add 2,000 hotel rooms this year and an additional 20,000 over the next decade, further boosting the island’s tourism sector and creating local jobs.
New properties include the Amaterra Resort, Palm Beach Villas, and the Pinnacle in Montego Bay, which will feature four 28-story towers, among others. Existing resorts, such as the Grand Palladium and Holiday Inn Montego Bay, are also expanding their capacity.
In addition, Jamaica is enhancing its cultural offerings, with a two-story restaurant and bar set to open at the popular Dunn’s River Falls and Park in Ocho Rios, catering to the growing demand for culinary tourism.
About the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB)
Founded in 1955, the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) is Jamaica’s national tourism agency, with offices worldwide. The JTB has won numerous awards, including being named “World’s Leading Cruise Destination” and “Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board” by the World Travel Awards. For more details, visit www.visitjamaica.com or call 1-800-JAMAICA.
