Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Mexico’s environment ministry has approved the construction of 926 new hotel rooms for a major resort project in Playa del Carmen, boosting tourism capacity in the Riviera Maya while reigniting debates about environmental impact.
The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) authorized the Moxché Club & Resort development, which will be built north of the city along the Xcalacoco–Punta Esmeralda coastal corridor. This area has seen rapid tourism and real estate growth, near neighborhoods like Luis Donaldo Colosio and Nicte-Ha and existing hotels.
The environmental impact authorization covers a project investment exceeding one billion pesos, funded through a trust linked to financial institution Banca Mifel.
The resort will feature 20 residential buildings arranged in two large horseshoe shapes to maximize ocean views and distribute common areas. Plans include:
- Gardens and green spaces
- Swimming pools
- An artificial lake as a central feature
- A commercial zone with restaurants, cafes, and shops
The artificial lake will serve as the project’s focal point, surrounded by gathering spaces and guest services.
The environmental approval process began in 2013 but faced years of delays due to administrative procedures initiated by the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa). SEMARNAT’s recent authorization allows the project to proceed.
The Riviera Maya currently has approximately 49,000 hotel rooms, primarily in Playa del Carmen. This new development will expand capacity in Mexico’s most important tourism corridor, confirming the region’s economic dynamism while keeping discussions about urban and environmental impacts active.
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