Jamaica’s Tourism Sector Rebounds Following Impact of Hurricane Melissa with Major Developments Underway

Airports Resume Operations as Hotel Inventory Gradually Reopens

Jamaica’s tourism sector is recording steady recovery following Hurricane Melissa, which impacted the island in late October 2025. In the seven weeks after the storm, the destination welcomed nearly 300,000 visitors, indicating sustained traveller confidence and continued demand across international markets.

Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay and Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston resumed regular operations shortly after the hurricane, enabling airlines and tourism stakeholders to maintain continuity in arrivals and departures without prolonged disruption.

According to Donovan White, Director of Tourism at the Jamaica Tourist Board, more than 70 per cent of the island’s hotel inventory is currently operational. This includes properties across Montego Bay, Kingston and the north coast. White noted that coordinated efforts among tourism workers, hotel operators, and government teams have supported the reopening of facilities and the restoration of services.

He added that recovery initiatives continue in communities affected by the hurricane, while visitor readiness and service standards remain a priority as tourism activity gradually returns to normal levels.

Tourism arrivals through 2026 are projected to reach approximately 70 to 80 per cent of pre-hurricane volumes as additional hotel capacity comes back online and phased reopening continues across key markets.

Tourism continues to play a central role in Jamaica’s national recovery, supporting employment, local businesses and community services during the rebuilding phase.

Looking ahead, Jamaica will host the Love Caribbean – Jamaica Edition destination wedding and romance travel conference from May 11 to 14, 2026, at Princess Grand Jamaica in Hanover. The event will bring together travel advisors, wedding planners and hospitality partners to explore opportunities within the Caribbean’s celebration travel segment.

With visitor arrivals increasing, major tourism corridors reopening, and international engagement continuing, Jamaica’s tourism sector remains positioned to support economic recovery and sustained growth.