Published on December 22, 2025
Jamaica’s tourism sector is on a long road to recovery after being hit hard by Hurricane Melissa in late October 2025. While early signs of resilience are emerging, visitor arrivals are expected to reach only 80% of pre-hurricane levels by the end of 2026. This journey highlights the challenges Jamaica faces in restoring its tourism infrastructure and services fully.
Tourism Ministry Outlines Recovery Milestones
The Jamaican Ministry of Tourism and the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) have shared an updated recovery timeline, signaling a gradual return to form after the Category 5 hurricane. Edmund Bartlett, the country’s Minister of Tourism, noted a projected 20% decline in visitor numbers for 2025, estimating around 3 million stopover arrivals—a significant drop from earlier growth expectations.
“About 30% of our tourism infrastructure was directly impacted,” Bartlett explained, particularly in hotspots like Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios. Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to restore affected hotels, attractions, and services, allowing Jamaica to salvage the crucial holiday travel season.
Tourism Assets Reopen, Room Inventory Returns
By December 2025, around 70% of Jamaica’s hotel room inventory was back online, with projections to reach 80% recovery by February 2026. As hotels and resorts complete repairs, including significant upgrades, the island expects nearly full operational capacity by late 2026. Some properties are using this recovery period to reinvent themselves, with plans to reopen as “new” destinations.
Donovan White, Director of Tourism at the Jamaica Tourist Board, emphasized that this recovery phase is an opportunity for rebuilding and repositioning Jamaica’s tourism assets. “We’re not just restoring; we’re enhancing,” he said, highlighting refurbishments at the Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica and several Sandals resorts, which will soon offer upgraded services for guests.
Continued Investment Amid Recovery Efforts
Despite setbacks, investment in Jamaica’s tourism infrastructure remains strong. Bartlett pointed to five mega-developments moving forward, including a Unico Hotel Collection and Hard Rock Hotel resort complex, The Pinnacle luxury residences, and the Harmony Cove luxury resort. These projects are set to significantly enhance Jamaica’s appeal to international tourists.
This sustained investment reflects confidence in Jamaica as a key player in the Caribbean tourism market, underscoring its potential for long-term recovery and growth.
Broader Infrastructure Enhancements: The Road Ahead
Beyond hotel renovations, the government has announced plans to modernize Jamaica’s infrastructure. This includes upgrades to roads, improved telecommunications, and a complete redesign of the Falmouth cruise port. This new facility will accommodate larger vessels and create a better experience for cruise passengers, redefining Jamaica’s cruise tourism.
Rebounding to Full Capacity by 2026
Jamaica’s tourism industry is already on the path to recovery, with a clear roadmap to reach full capacity by 2026. Officials are hopeful that visitor numbers will gradually approach pre-hurricane levels by the end of 2026. The ministry is confident that by mid-2026, over 80% of tourism infrastructure will be restored, ensuring a seamless visitor experience as international tourists return.
For travelers, 2026 will be a pivotal year for exploring Jamaica’s world-renowned beaches, resorts, and cultural attractions in a fully restored environment. With ongoing updates to accommodation options and tourism services, the island is poised to offer exceptional experiences, just as it did before the hurricane.
Looking Toward the Future of Jamaican Tourism
The hurricane’s devastation created significant setbacks for Jamaica’s tourism industry, but the island has shown remarkable resilience. With $300 million in recovery investments and ongoing development projects, Jamaica is committed to providing a world-class tourism experience. As the island looks ahead, one must wonder: how will Jamaica’s renewed spirit and vibrant culture continue to attract visitors from around the globe?