Context of the closure
The Marriott Hotel in Port-au-Prince has announced the temporary suspension of its operations from April 30, 2025, due to the continuing deterioration of the security climate in Haiti. The hotel’s management explained that the current situation could no longer guarantee a safe and healthy environment for its customers and employees, forcing it to take this difficult decision.
Security situation in the area
The closure comes at a time when the Turgeau area, where the hotel is located, is particularly hard hit by the advance of armed groups. The gangs are getting closer and closer to the hotel, and there seems to be no lasting solution in sight in the short term to curb this insecurity. This situation has already prompted other institutions to suspend their operations in the Haitian capital.
Consequences for Haiti
The Marriott hotel, which employs around a hundred people, represents a major economic player in the region. Its closure, albeit temporary, represents a major blow to the local tourism and hotel sector, already weakened by the instability.
Digicel, the building’s owner, has expressed its understanding of the decision and hopes for a rapid improvement in the security situation.
Management has made it clear that the suspension of operations is not definitive: the hotel will reopen as soon as conditions allow.
Summary
The temporary closure of the Marriott Hotel in Port-au-Prince is a strong signal of the seriousness of the security crisis affecting Haiti. It illustrates the direct impact of insecurity on the local economy and on the daily lives of the country’s inhabitants and businesses.