The Dominican Republic stands out as a vibrant, ideal destination for international conferences, blending modern facilities with the allure of Caribbean landscapes. Here’s an inside look at the country’s top convention and conference centers, their unique features, and all the details you need for planning your event. Whatever you do, do not go straight to the hotel to reserve and prepay for rooms and conference rooms. Not until you get a written commitment from the hotel allowing you to bring your own preferred service providers without paying additional fees, penalties or commissions. This will allow you to hire your own interpreters, stage designers and scenographers, artists, flowers, etc., without having to pay exorbitant prices for not the best quality, as most hotels run an ecosystem of service providers under exclusivity, based on paying high commissions to intermediaries. It is always recommendable to hire a reputable Dominican Republic Destination Mangement Company (DMC) with experience negotiating these matters with the sales department of the hotel you are considering for your event. There are two we highly recommend: Turenlaces del Caribe and SmartCongress.
1. Barceló Bávaro Grand Resort Convention Center
Nestled in Punta Cana, this convention center is a powerhouse of event space. It has over 11,500 square meters, divided into 13 versatile rooms that can transform into 24 separate meeting spaces, easily accommodating up to 5,000 guests. State-of-the-art AV equipment is available, and their team specializes in coordinating elegant gala dinners and themed events. A top pick for large-scale gatherings.
2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana Convention Center
With its rock ‘n’ roll vibe and expansive 6,500 square meters, this convention center is an exceptional venue. The main hall is a massive 3,000 square meters, with seating for almost 4,000 attendees. Whether it’s a music-themed event or a large corporate gathering, this venue has both personality and ample space, along with cutting-edge technology to meet any event’s needs.
3. Paradisus Palma Real Convention Center
Located in the heart of Punta Cana, this center is designed for elegance and flexibility. It offers 12 meeting rooms spread across 2,000 square meters. Its main hall fits 1,000 guests, with additional rooms for smaller groups of 50 to 500. A great choice for events seeking a refined touch in a tropical setting.
4. Casa de Campo Resort & Villas
This La Romana gem brings more than just event space; it offers a unique experience. There are two main centers:
- Flamboyán Conference Center: Over 1,000 square meters, adaptable for groups from 12 up to 500 guests.
- Cacique Conference Center: Nearly 900 square meters, seating up to 350 attendees.
The Marina Riverside Center adds even more space, hosting up to 1,360 people. Casa de Campo’s venues are perfect for those looking to combine business with leisure in a luxurious setting.
5. Ministry of Foreign Affairs Convention Center (MIREX)
Situated in Santo Domingo, this venue offers a strategic location and four large halls:
- Hall A: 800 sq. meters
- Hall B: 760 sq. meters
- Hall C: 480 sq. meters
- Hall D: 178 sq. meters
With a spacious lobby, MIREX is a professional, efficient choice for political or diplomatic events.
6. JW Marriott Hotel Santo Domingo
For a premium experience in Santo Domingo, the JW Marriott offers 925 square meters of space, including the Piantini Grand Ballroom, which holds up to 350 people. Additional rooms accommodate smaller groups, making this a versatile and luxurious setting for corporate gatherings.
7. El Embajador, a Royal Hideaway Hotel
Known for its timeless elegance, this hotel in Santo Domingo has 5,000 square meters dedicated to events. The Grand Ambassador Ballroom seats 1,200 people, with additional rooms for smaller gatherings. It’s an ideal location for events looking for sophistication in the capital city.
8. InterContinental Real Santo Domingo
This modern hotel has nine meeting rooms covering a combined 1,500 square meters. The main ballroom hosts up to 750 guests, with smaller rooms for more intimate sessions, providing a stylish yet functional backdrop for any event.
9. Dominican Fiesta Hotel & Casino
Also in Santo Domingo, this hotel features six spacious event areas, the largest accommodating up to 2,000 people. It’s among the biggest event spaces in the city, making it popular for large conventions and gatherings.
10. UTESA Dominican Convention and Cultural Center
In Santiago de los Caballeros, this center has more than 20 spaces, each designed for flexibility. With a range from small meetings to events with up to 1,200 attendees, UTESA is versatile and equipped for almost any type of gathering.
11. Gran Arena del Cibao Dr. Oscar Gobaira
An iconic venue in Santiago, this arena seats 8,768 and is often used for sports events and concerts. Its size and layout make it adaptable for grand-scale events.
12. Palacio de los Deportes Virgilio Travieso Soto
Located in Santo Domingo, this multi-purpose sports venue has seating for 8,337 and is used for both sporting events and concerts, providing a unique, expansive venue option.
With so many options, from intimate meetings to grand-scale conventions, the Dominican Republic offers an array of venues that perfectly blend modernity, elegance, and Caribbean charm.
If you need advice about any subject related to holding an event in any Dominican Republic destination, please do not hesitate to contact us by mail, contact form or whatsapp. We will do our best to point you in the right direction free of any charge.
