Hotel Xcaret México Expansion Boosts Sustainable Tourism

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — The city of Playa del Carmen is celebrating a major win for economic development and sustainable tourism with the inauguration of a $700 million USD expansion of Hotel Xcaret México. Backed by the administration of Mayor Estefanía Mercado, the high-impact investment by Grupo Xcaret is set to create more than 2,000 direct jobs and solidify the Riviera Maya as a global benchmark for tourism that celebrates cultural identity and social inclusion.

A Blueprint for Purpose-Driven Tourism

Mayor Estefanía Mercado, speaking at the inauguration, underscored the project as a prime example of a tourism model grounded in local heritage, inclusivity, and economic equity.

“The expansion of Hotel Xcaret México is a clear indicator that businesses continue to invest in our country and, of course, in Playa del Carmen. This is tourism that creates opportunities and prosperity for everyone,” she said.

Her administration, working in tandem with private investors and government entities at all levels, is actively positioning Playa del Carmen as a year-round destination. Recent achievements include securing the 2023 Beach Volleyball World Championship and organizing over 300 sporting events, in addition to promoting art, fashion, and culture as strategic pillars for tourism beyond the high season.

Economic and Social Footprint

Governor Mara Lezama praised the initiative not only for its scale, but for its human impact.

“This project is not just about economic investment but also well-paying jobs and life-changing opportunities,” Lezama said.

Federal Tourism Secretary Josefina Rodríguez also commended Grupo Xcaret for advancing the national agenda of “Tourism for México,” which focuses on inclusive growth and community benefit. The project aligns with sustainable tourism objectives laid out by the Mexican government, particularly those targeting environmental responsibility and job creation.

Supporting Local Enterprise

Altagracia Gómez Sierra, head of the National Advisory Council for Regional Development and Business Relocation, highlighted the pivotal role of family-owned businesses like Grupo Xcaret in empowering women and strengthening local economies.

Grupo Xcaret President Miguel Quintana expressed his gratitude to the company’s more than 17,000 employees, while Vice President Marco Constandse revealed that this expansion is only the beginning. The firm has outlined a long-term master plan with a projected total investment of $3.32 billion USD. The roadmap includes new hotels, attractions, and infrastructure improvements aimed at creating an integrated, eco-conscious tourism complex.

Vision for Playa del Carmen

Mayor Mercado reaffirmed her administration’s long-term commitment to sustainable growth, innovation, and inclusive prosperity.

“We will keep working so Playa del Carmen remains a model city for tourism with cultural identity and well-being at its core,” she concluded.

With the Hotel Xcaret México expansion, Playa del Carmen is not just building more rooms—it’s building a future in which tourism benefits locals, honors heritage, and inspires global admiration.