Sports tourism in the DR receives a monumental boost with the announcement of the grand finale of the PGA TOUR Américas 2026 at the PGA Ocean’s 4 course. Held at the International Tourism Fair (FITUR), this event positions the Dominican Republic as a global benchmark in professional golf.
Announcement at FITUR and championship details
From the Dominican stand at FITUR, Piñero’s Real Estate & Golf division confirmed that the PGA Ocean’s 4 Tour Championship, sponsored by Scotiabank, will take place from October 15 to 18, 2026, in Playa Nueva Romana. This season finale brings together the top 60 players from 15 tournaments across nine American countries, competing for 10 spots on the 2027 Korn Ferry Tour, a stepping stone to the elite PGA Tour.
Economic impact of sports tourism in the DR
According to the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur), between 250,000 and 300,000 golfers visit the country annually, injecting more than US$400 million into the economy. This sports tourism in the DR attracts a high-income demographic, generates local employment, and raises the global visibility of the country brand. Experts highlight that events like this multiply hotel bookings and invigorate sectors such as gastronomy and transport.
Excellence of PGA Ocean’s 4
PGA Ocean’s 4, the only PGA of America-affiliated course in the Dominican Republic, offers an 18-hole par 72 course for professionals and a 9-hole illuminated executive course. In 2025, it won Best Golf Course at the World Golf Awards and Best in the Americas by IAGTO, thanks to its impeccable maintenance and Caribbean location. It includes the only local PGA Academy with Trackman technology to train talent.
- Recognitions: World Golf Awards and IAGTO 2025.
- Infrastructure: Championship and executive courses, certified academy.
- Benefits: Attraction of international golfers and economic spillover.
“Announcing this event at FITUR shows that professional tournaments are an extraordinary lever for sports tourism in the DR,” stated Carlos de Linares, director of PGA Ocean’s 4. Historically, the Dominican Republic has hosted tournaments like the Santo Domingo Open, consolidating its role in Latin American golf since the 2000s.
This sports tourism in the DR not only strengthens infrastructure, but also projects the country as a premium destination. With figures verified by Mitur and international awards, the PGA TOUR Américas marks a milestone for the sustained growth of the sector.
