The Cayman Islands tourism sector is experiencing strong growth with air arrivals reaching historic highs during the first quarter of 2026, according to Deputy Premier Gary Rutty.
Speaking at Caribbean Week in New York, Minister Rutty, who also serves as minister of tourism and trade development, reported that the British Overseas Territory welcomed more than 797,000 air and cruise visitors during the first 120 days of the year. March 2026 marked a major milestone with monthly air arrivals surpassing 60,000 for the first time in the destination’s history.
He noted that 45% of visitors are repeat guests, a testament to the destination’s strong appeal and visitor experience.
To sustain this momentum, the destination is advancing several key initiatives:
• Expanded accessibility: Cayman Airways recently launched service from Austin, Texas, providing an additional gateway for U.S. travelers.
• Infrastructure investment: New hotel projects are underway, including the 95-room ONE GT boutique property in George Town and the 382-room Hyatt Grand Cayman. Construction also began in February on the Mandarin Oriental Residences Grand Cayman, the brand’s first purpose-built Caribbean resort, scheduled for completion in 2028.
• Strategic planning: A new national tourism plan is being developed to guide sustainable growth, strengthen workforce development and expand opportunities for Caymanians.
• Digital innovation: A national digital transformation task force is developing recommendations related to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence-driven workforce changes and economic diversification through digital assets.
Minister Rutty also highlighted Cayman Enterprise City’s recent recognition by the Financial Times Group as the top knowledge zone in the Americas and the second-ranked globally.
Looking ahead, he said his priorities over the next 12 to 24 months include sustaining strong visitor arrivals, expanding airlift and ensuring Caymanians share in the benefits of the tourism industry’s continued success.
Click above to watch a clip of his remarks on CTO TV.
