Bartlett: Jamaica on track for full tourism recovery by May 2026

Jamaica’s tourism sector is pushing ahead with an ambitious recovery plan following the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Melissa, with full operational readiness targeted for May 2026.

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Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett shared the update during an interview with Fox News on November 13, urging travellers to support the island’s reconstruction by visiting and experiencing Jamaica’s trademark warmth and resilience. “The best way to give back is to come back,” he said.

Bartlett noted that although the western end of the island bore the brunt of the storm, much of Jamaica remains open to visitors. He pointed to rapid mobilisation efforts across government and nonprofit groups, which have been delivering food, clothing and essential supplies to hard-hit communities. International volunteers and Caribbean neighbours have also stepped in with support.

With two-thirds of major tourist destinations already operating, the Minister said the sector is steadily rebuilding. Resorts, attractions and small businesses in the affected zones are repairing damage with what he described as a renewed sense of unity and purpose.

Despite the scale of the impact — an estimated 60 per cent of tourism assets were affected — Bartlett said the country’s key gateways are functioning and hotels continue to reopen. “By the time we get to December 15, more than 70 per cent of our room stock and attractions will be available,” he said, noting that about 80 per cent of accommodation is expected to be ready by January 2026.

The western tourism capital, Montego Bay, was among the hardest hit, while Negril, Port Antonio, Kingston and parts of the South Coast experienced far less disruption. As infrastructure stabilises, Bartlett said ongoing efforts are focused on restoring workers’ homes and ensuring utilities such as water and electricity are fully reliable.

Tourism accounts for roughly 30 per cent of Jamaica’s GDP, provides more than half of the island’s foreign-exchange earnings and employs 20 per cent of the labour force — making the speed of recovery critical. But Bartlett stressed that the island’s resilience remains its strongest asset. “We’re not just building back. We’re building back better,” he said, adding that reconstruction efforts are incorporating climate-resilient technologies.

A multi-agency recovery task force is meeting daily to coordinate the rebuild, and Bartlett praised the determination of residents who are repairing homes and restoring livelihoods.

As Jamaica prepares for the peak winter season, the Minister is encouraging travellers to rely on official channels, including the Jamaica Tourist Board website, for the latest updates on openings and recovery progress. He reiterated his invitation for visitors to return, describing Jamaica as a destination defined by hospitality, optimism and a steady march toward full recovery.