RIU Hotels & Resorts is moving quickly to restore full operations in Jamaica, announcing plans to reopen all seven of its properties by mid-December. The initiative marks a step in the destination’s broader tourism recovery strategy following the impact of Hurricane Melissa.
Reopenings are rolling out in phases. Riu Ocho Rios, located in one of the least-affected regions, remained operational throughout the storm and has since fully restored its services. Riu Montego Bay reopened on Nov. 23, followed by Riu Palace Jamaica today, Nov. 24.
Restoration Work Ongoing for RIU Properties
The remaining four hotels—Riu Reggae, Riu Negril, Riu Palace Tropical Bay, and Riu Palace Aquarelle—are scheduled to welcome guests again between Nov. 30 and Dec. 15, 2025, pending the completion of ongoing restoration work.
Charter flight activity is also resuming, with partners such as Sunwing and TUI reinstating service from Canada, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, helping reconnect Jamaica to key source markets.
RIU credits its rapid progress to intensive cleanup and repair efforts deployed just days after the storm. Restoring water and electricity posed the biggest challenges, but infrastructure has now been stabilized across all destinations where the chain operates.
In addition to operational recovery, RIU has placed a strong emphasis on supporting its workforce through its Proudly Committed strategy. The company mobilized a $1 million aid fund, directing 80 percent to employees—including $570,000 for home reconstruction materials and $230,000 for essential aid packages. An additional $1.3 million in interest-free credit has been made available to staff managing personal losses.
The remaining 20 percent of the fund is being directed toward community support. RIU partnered with the Jamaica Basic School Foundation to deliver 1,750 humanitarian aid packages and teamed up with World Central Kitchen to prepare and distribute more than 7,000 hot meals daily from Negril and Montego Bay.
For more information, visit riu.com.
