Following an announcement on 9 January 2017, the Marriot Autograph Collection – a boutique brand of the Marriott International chain – was confirmed as the latest real estate development to feature in Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Programme. Marriott International is hailed as one of the world’s largest and best hotel franchises, employing around 360,000 people across the globe.The development, which is scheduled to begin as early as the first half of this year, is the newest addition to the company’s worldwide range of 6,000 hotels and is expected to return long-term benefits to Dominica’s tourism and hospitality industries, providing hundreds of jobs for local Dominicans during its construction and post construction stages.
As part of Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Programme, the hotel will play an instrumental role in marketing the island to foreign investors, enabling applicants to purchase a share in the hotel in exchange for citizenship. To be part of this initiative, main applicants must make a minimum investment of US$200,000.
A Glorious Moment
Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Programme also offers a second, faster route to citizenship, whereby applicants must contribute at least US$100,000 into the country’s Economic Diversification Fund (EDF). The EDF redirects funds to national development undertakings to improve alternative energy use, infrastructure, and public services.
The project was declared a “glorious moment for Dominica” by the country’s Prime Minister, Dr the Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit, who reinforced the value of Marriott’s affiliation with the island. The Prime Minister also encouraged Dominicans to take inspiration and pursue entrepreneurial activities. As a luxury, high-end brand, the Marriott will add a new dimension to Dominica’s tourism market, drawing visitors to the island from further afield.