Jamaica’s tourism industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. The third-most intense Atlantic hurricane on record struck the island as a Category 5 storm on October 28, 2025. According to information released by Jamaica’s tourism officials, the Caribbean nation has already welcomed 300,000 visitors in the weeks since the disaster, including both stopover and cruise passengers. This milestone comes as major resort areas throughout Jamaica have successfully restored operations for the crucial winter tourism season.
Travel and Tour World reports that key destinations, including Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, and Kingston, are now fully operational and ready to welcome international visitors. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett confirmed that Jamaica met its target of restoring tourism operations by December 15, marking an impressive turnaround just over six weeks after the catastrophic weather event. Minister Bartlett attributes this swift comeback to the “remarkable recovery strategy” that island leaders and travel industry stakeholders collectively implemented to restore the nation’s vital tourism sector.
Jamaica Is Rebounding Faster Than the Tourism Industry Predicted
“Our recovery has exceeded expectations,” Minister Bartlett declared, as reported by TravelPulse. “Jamaica is not just back, we are stronger, more resilient, and more committed than ever to delivering the authentic Jamaican experience our visitors know and love. The dedication of our tourism workers, many of whom were personally affected by the hurricane, exemplifies the true spirit of Jamaica.”
Following the hurricane, Jamaica’s tourism industry and government leaders prioritized restoring operations as quickly as possible, recognizing that tourism is essential to the country’s economic stability. Tourism accounts for more than 30 percent of Jamaica’s GDP. It supports approximately one-third of jobs across the island.
The swift resumption of tourism activities is therefore critical not only for economic recovery but also for thousands of Jamaican families whose livelihoods depend on visitor arrivals. Between December 11 and 14 alone, 20,800 tourists arrived in Jamaica, demonstrating strong momentum in the sector’s recovery.
Infrastructure Recovery Advances Rapidly Across the Island
All major airports have resumed normal operations, including Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, and Ian Fleming International Airport in Ocho Rios. Major airlines have maintained regular flight schedules to the island, with some carriers even increasing service.
By the end of December, approximately 71 percent of hotels are expected to reopen their doors to guests, with projections indicating that number will rise significantly through early 2026. In addition, popular attractions throughout the island are also fully operational, allowing visitors to experience Jamaica’s rich culture, vibrant music scene, and renowned hospitality in a safe environment.
