Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic (República Dominicana) is a Caribbean country that occupies the eastern five-eighths of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. The western three-eighths of Hispaniola is occupied by the nation of Haiti. To the north lies the North Atlantic Ocean, while the Caribbean Sea lies to the south.

Demonstration for Palestine and Gaza in Dominican Republic

Dear Supporters of the Palestinian Cause in Dominican Republic,

We are excited to announce a peaceful demonstration in support of the People of Palestine, set to take place in Dominican Republic over the next three days. This event is an opportunity for us to come together and raise our voices and the Palestinian Flag for a just and peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

We want to emphasize that this demonstration is intended to be a peaceful and respectful gathering. Our goal is to show solidarity with the people of Palestine and call for a peaceful solution to the conflict. It is crucial that we maintain a peaceful and respectful atmosphere throughout the event.

Important Guidelines:

To ensure the success of our demonstration and to maintain a peaceful environment, we kindly ask all participants to adhere to the following guidelines:

Peaceful Protest: Thit is a non-violent demonstration. We do not condone any form of violence or vandalism.

Respect for Law Enforcement: Please treat law enforcement officers in Dominican Republic with respect and follow their instructions. Do not engage in confrontations with them.

Leave No Trace: Dispose of any trash responsibly and leave the demonstration area clean.

Thank you for your commitment to our peaceful demonstration in Dominican Republic, and let us stand together for a better future for all.

In solidarity, eHalal Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic Halal Travel Guide

History of Dominican Republic

Explored and claimed by Columbus on his first voyage on December 5, 1492 and the island of Ayití, named by Columbus as La Hispaniola, became a springboard for Spanish conquest of the Caribbean and the American mainland.

The island was first inhabited by the Taínos and Caribes. The Caribes were an Arawakan-speaking people who had arrived around 10,000 BCE. Within a few short years following the arrival of European explorers and the population of Tainos had significantly been reduced by the Spanish conquerors. Based on Fray Bartolomé de las Casas (Tratado de las Indias) between 1492 and 1498 the Spanish conquerors killed around 100,000 Taínos.

The first European colonial settlement founded on the American continent was located on La Isabela, founded in 1493 using a 15th century style located in La Isabela, Puerto Plata (19º53'15.08" North 71º04'48.41" W). The City of Santo Domingo was founded by Bartolomé Colón, on August 5, 1496 and was later moved by Frey Nicolás de Ovando to the West side of Ozama river in 1502.

In 1606 the royal crown of Spain ordered the depopulation of the western end of the island due to high piracy and contraband. This led to the French invasion and the establishment of Haiti.

In 1697, Spain recognized French dominion over the western third of the island, which in 1804 became Haiti. The remainder of the island, by then known as Santo Domingo, sought to gain its own independence in 1821, but was conquered and ruled by the Haitians for 22 years; it finally attained independence as the Dominican Republic in 1844.

A legacy of unsettled, mostly non-representative rule for much of its subsequent history was brought to an end in 1966 when Joaquín Balaguer was elected president for his second, non-consecutive term (he had first served from 1960-1962). He maintained a tight grip on power for most of the next 30 years, until international reaction to flawed elections forced him to curtail his last term, hold new elections in 1996, and give up power. Since then, regular competitive elections have been held every four years.

The Dominican economy has had one of the fastest growth rates in the hemisphere.

How is the Climate in Dominican Republic

Tropical maritime with little seasonal temperature variation. There is a seasonal variation in rainfall. The island lies in the middle of the hurricane belt and is subject to severe storms from June to October. It experiences occasional flooding and periodic droughts.

How is the Landscape of Dominican Republic

Rugged highlands and mountains with fertile valleys interspersed.

National parks

• Los Haitises National Park
• Jaragua National Park
• National Park Isla Cabritos
• Armando Bermudez National Park
• Jose Del Carmen Ramirez National Park
• Sierra del Bahoruco National Park
• Parque Nacional del Este
• Monte Cristi National Park
• Parque Historico La Isabela

An Introduction to the Region of Dominican Republic

Greater Santo Domingo The cosmopolitan capital and its surrounding beaches.

Eastern Dominican Republic Home to the world-famous all inclusive hotels of Bavaro and Punta Cana, and the major resorts of Casa de Campo and Cap Cana.

Eastern Cibao A beautiful bay often described as a "Paradise on Earth"

Western Cibao The second largest city and the highest mountains in the Caribbean, and the popular beaches of the Atlantic Coast.

Southern Dominican Republic The most secluded area of the nation, almost untouched by tourism, with a unique scenery and wildlife.

Other Muslim Friendly Cities in Dominican Republic

• Santo Domingo - Capital.
• Higüey
• Juan Dolio
• Puerto Plata
• Punta Cana
• San Pedro de Macoris
• Santa Barbara De Samana
• Santiago de los Caballeros
• Sosua
• Rio San Juan
• La Romana - 3rd largest city

More Destinations in Dominican Republic

• Bayahibe
• Bonao — secluded village
• Cabarete
• Jarabacoa
• Las Terrenas
• Las Galeras
• Miches
• Bahia de las Aguilas
• Playa Bonita — secluded beach strip popular with Europeans and Americans in the know

Islam in the Dominican Republic

Islam's presence in the Dominican Republic is relatively recent compared to other parts of the world. The arrival and growth of Islam in the Dominican Republic can be traced back to the following key phases:

Early History

Moorish Influence

The initial, albeit indirect, introduction of Islamic culture to the Dominican Republic occurred during the period of Spanish colonization. Some of the early Spanish settlers and explorers, including Christopher Columbus's crew, had Moorish (Muslim) ancestry due to the centuries of Moorish rule in Spain. However, this influence did not establish an enduring Muslim community.

20th Century

Immigration Waves

The more significant and direct introduction of Islam began in the 20th century with the arrival of Muslim immigrants from the Middle East, particularly from Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. These immigrants came to the Dominican Republic seeking better economic opportunities and to escape political turmoil in their home countries. They primarily settled in urban areas and engaged in trade and business.

Late 20th Century and Early 21st Century

Growth of the Muslim Community

In recent decades, the Muslim community in the Dominican Republic has grown, partly due to continued immigration and partly due to conversions among the local population. This period saw the establishment of formal Islamic institutions, such as mosques and Islamic centers, which provided religious, educational, and social services to the community.

Current Status

Establishment of Mosques and Islamic Centers

Today, there are several mosques and Islamic centers in major cities like Santo Domingo and Santiago de los Caballeros. These institutions serve as the focal points for the Muslim community, offering regular prayers, religious education, and community support.

Overall, while the Muslim community in the Dominican Republic is relatively small, its presence has been steadily growing, contributing to the country's cultural and religious diversity.

Mosques in the Dominican Republic

Mezquita Al Noor

Located in Santo Domingo, the capital city, Mezquita Al Noor is one of the few established mosques in the country. It serves the local Muslim community by providing regular prayers, religious education, and community events.

Masjid Al-Rahma

Another significant mosque in Santo Domingo, Masjid Al-Rahma, caters to the spiritual needs of Muslims in the city. It offers daily prayers, Friday congregational prayers, and other religious services.

Centro Islámico de la República Dominicana

The Islamic Center of the Dominican Republic, also in Santo Domingo, is an important religious and cultural institution. It includes a mosque and provides various activities, including educational programs and interfaith dialogue.

Mezquita de Puerto Plata

In Puerto Plata, there is a smaller mosque that serves the Muslim community in the northern part of the country. It is an essential place for worship and community gatherings for Muslims in the area.

These mosques play a critical role in supporting the Muslim community in the Dominican Republic by offering spaces for worship, education, and social interaction. The presence of these masjids reflects the growing diversity and multiculturalism in the country.

Muslim Friendly Travel TO Dominican Republic

Muslims visitors of most countries can purchase a tourist card on arrival.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Dominican Republic

The main airports (in alphabetical order) are:

• (IATA Flight Code: AZS) Samana, commonly called "El Catey", located between the towns of Nagua and Samana on the north coast.
• (IATA Flight Code: EPS) Samana, commonly called "Aeropuerto Internacional Arroyo Barril" between Sanchez and Samaná
• (IATA Flight Code: JBQ) "La Isabela" airport in Santo Domingo, mainly for domestic flights but also receives some Flights from other Caribbean islands
• (IATA Flight Code: LRM) La Romana on the south east coast
• (IATA Flight Code: POP) Puerto Plata, commonly called "Gregorio Luperon" on the north coast
• (IATA Flight Code: PUJ) Punta Cana International Airport in the east and the busiest in the nation
• (IATA Flight Code: SDQ) Santo Domingo, commonly called "Las Americas" on the south coast close to the national capital Santo Domingo
• (IATA Flight Code: STI) Santiago commonly called "Cibao International" in Santiago de los Caballeros (the nation's 2nd largest city).
• (IATA Flight Code: COZ) Constanza, a domestic airport to all Dominican destinations.
• (IATA Flight Code: BRX) Barahona, commonly called "Aeropuerto Internacional María Montez" this airport was reopened during the earthquake in Haiti, in order to bring the primary aid to the Haitians.
• (IATA Flight Code: CBJ) Cabo Rojo, Pedernales, only for domestic use, located near Cabo Rojo port facility.

You can get Flights from Europe via Madrid (IATA Flight Code: MAD) or Paris (IATA Flight Code: CDG). From the US, you can fly from New York, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami Airport, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, San Juan, Atlanta Airport or Charlotte. Most European and Canadian cities have charter flight connections, which operate seasonally.

You will be charged US$10 for a tourist card on arrival. This must be paid in US dollars or euros. Local currency, sterling, or other currencies will not be accepted. A departure tax of US$20 cash is payable on most charter and some scheduled flights. If you are flying on a US carrier and the departure tax is always included in the taxes when you purchased your ticket, so you will not have to pay anything when leaving.

Taxi fares to nearby hotels are posted just outside the airports.

Taxi from the airport to Santo Domingo (Ciudad Colonial): it is about US$40. There are no hotel "courtesy shuttles" at airports in the Dominican Republic.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Dominican Republic

There is a ferry that travels between Mayagüez in Puerto Rico and Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. The website says the journey takes 12 hours, leaves Puerto Rico on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8PM, and arrives in Dominican Republic at 8AM the next morning.

How to get around in Dominican Republic

Options for getting around the nation include bus service, 'gua-guas' (pronounced "Gwa-Gwas": small battered vans or trucks that serve as a collective taxi running fixed routes that are very affordable but can also be very overloaded), domestic air flights and charter air service. There is a rail system operating only in the city of Santo Domingo. Most towns and cities have regularly scheduled bus service, if not by one of the big bus companies and then by gua-gua. The bus lines are most often simple, independently run operations, usually only connecting two cities within a region (Southwest, East, North) or between one city and the capital (with stops made for any towns on the route). Because of the geography of the nation, to get from one region of the nation to another you have to go through the capital.At horariodebuses.com you can check bus timetables between destinations in the nation.

By car

Cars may be rented through Hertz, Avis, Prestige Car Rentals or other agencies in Santo Domingo and other major cities. Gasoline, however, is expensive often costing upward of US$5/gallon (as of June 2023). Some roads, especially in remote areas, are fairly dangerous (often without lane divisions) and many Muslim tend not to respect oncoming traffic. Road conditions on most major highways are roughly similar to road conditions in the United States and western Europe. However, potholes and rough spots are not rapidly repaired and drivers must be aware that there are a significant number of rough spots even on some major highways. There are a number of very good roads such as DR-1 which is a four lane highway connecting the cities of Santo Domingo and Santiago and can be traveled with no trouble. Highway DR-7 is an excellent toll road from just east of Santo Domingo north to near Sanchez. From there, you can go east to the Samana peninsula or west along the northern coast of the DR and costs about US$11.

Probably the biggest challenge that an international visitor to the Dominican Republic will face if he or she chooses to hire a vehicle is not so much dealing with automobile traffic, but rather avoiding accidentally running over pedestrians who cross poorly-lit streets and highways in the evening and nighttime hours. Lack of head/taillights on cars and especially motorcycles is also not unusual and with motorcycles this makes them extremely hard to spot. The best recommendation is not to drive after dusk. Outside of Santo Domingo and the motorbike (motoconcho) is an extremely common form of travel. If lost, you can hail a motorbike driver (motochonchista) and ask for directions. You will be taken to your destination by following the bike. A tip is appropriate for such help. Remember that many of these motorbike drivers look upon road rules as only recommendations. However, driving in the Dominican Republic should not be particularly difficult for experienced drivers from North America or Europe.

Guaguas (local buses)

Guaguas are the traditional means of transport in the Dominican Republic. Guaguas will be filled to the brink with people and luggage; expect to squeeze to fit more people who will be picked up en route. If you prefer authentic experience over comfort, traveling by guagua is the right choice.

Guagua comfort can range from air-conditioned with leather seats to a bit worn down with open window air breeze cooling. Traveling with guaguas is safe, and Muslims are treated friendly and get helped out.

You can also hop on mid way if you know where to stand on the route and gesture the driver; tell the conductor your destination and he'll tell you where to get off and how to switch guaguas; sometimes you'll have to ride across town to another bus station.

Prices are modest: RD$100-150 for a 1-2 hour ride. Since most guaguas are shuttle vanes, you might have to stow your luggage on a seat; in this case you might have to pay a fee for the occupied seat. Larger routes get serviced by normal sized buses with a separate storage compartment.

Be aware that guaguas stop operating at dusk. Plan your trip with enough slack that you will be able to catch your last guagua when the sun is still up.

The guagua network is organic and does not require you to go through the capital; you might have to switch several times though, as guaguas usually only connect two major cities.

Long-haul buses

Santo Domingo Caribe Tours, based out of the capital, is the biggest bus company, and has coverage in most regions that are not well-served by the other 'official' bus companies. Unlike taxis and gua-guas, Caribe Tour rates are fixed by destination and are extremely reasonable due to government subsidies. Puerto Plata to Santo Domingo is roughly $425 peso. Caribe Tour buses typically run from 7AM to 4PM (with departures approx. every two hours) and cover most major cities. On longer trips, expect a short (10-minute) stop for coffee and lunch. Buses are fairly luxurious with movies playing for the entire trip and air conditioning (which can be extremely cold - bring a sweater). Another option is the slightly more expensive Metrobus bus company. Metrobus serves the northern and eastern part of the nation. The 'unofficial' gua-gua system covers nearly every road on the island for some moderate savings (if you don't mind being packed in).

In short, bus services across the nation are comfortable and a good value. The buses are clean, air-conditioned (bring sweater), usually play a movie, and are pretty affordable, costing no more than RD$300 one way cross-country.

Taxi services are available but potentially dangerous when dealing with unlicensed drivers. In all cases, it's a good idea to go with a licensed driver and negotiate a price for your destination before you leave. Good drivers are often easy to identify by licenses worn around the neck, uniforms, and clean air-conditioned vehicles. When calling a taxi company, you will be given a number to verify your driver. When being picked up, make sure your driver gives you the right number as 'false pickups' are often a prelude to robbery.

Another way to get out and about is to book an excursion with one of the many representatives at most local hotels and resorts.

Local Language in Dominican Republic

The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish. You will find some Spanish-English bilingual local residents especially in Santo Domingo and tourist areas. If you speak some (Spanish), most Dominicans will try hard to meet you half way and communicate. If you have a problem, you can probably find someone who speaks sufficient English (or probably French and possibly (German), Italian or Russian) to help you out. Dominicans are quite friendly and will be quite helpful if you are polite and respectful. Haitians living in the DR may speak Haitian Creole and you may hear a few African and Arawakan words interspersed with the (Spanish), especially in rural areas. Communication should not be a problem even for those who speak only a minimum of Spanish. If you are traveling to one of the large all-inclusive hotels, you will have no language problems.

What to see in Dominican Republic

There is one UNESCO World Heritage Site; the old town of Santo Domingo which is the oldest European city in the Americas. In addition to that there are many national parks and beaches in the nation.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Dominican Republic

Climb/hike to the top of Pico Duarte. At 3,098m it's not only the highest mountain in the Dominican Republic but in the whole Caribbean Islands|Caribbean.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Dominican Republic

Money Matters & ATM's in Dominican Republic

The currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso denoted by the symbol "$" or "RD$" (ISO code: DOP). uses "RD$" for clarity.

At airports and harbors you can change your US dollars and euros in Dominican pesos, though the rates there are not great. It makes sense to get only as many pesos as necessary there and change more later on at your destination or to withdraw pesos from an ATM with your credit- or debit-card. You may not be able to exchange back Dominican pesos to US dollars and Euros in most countries, so do it before leaving.

In most cities one can find a Banco Popular and Scotiabank - their ATMs allow withdrawals with Visa, Mastercard and Maestro. They usually impose a very low limit but allow several withdrawals at once. Even though it is feasible to withdraw money in the bank directly, most will flatly refuse this and point one at their ATMs. Unless one is very proficient in Spanish and willing to fight this out with the staff one has to obey (and thus pay a fee for every withdrawal - between RD$100 and RD$200). Depending on the season the limits change - in high season the limits are higher, in low season they go lower. It always makes sense to try a value that ends in 900 if the 1,000 don't work (e.g. if 4,000 is over the limit, try 3,900 first before trying 3000). Bank Reservas does not work for US-issued Fidelity debit card and could cause errors in the statement. Banco Popular would decline withdrawals too, while Scotiabank has been very reliable.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Dominican Republic

One of the best spots in the Colonial District of Santo Domingo to shop is the several blocks long outdoor mall, El Conde Street. It offers everything from street vendors (it is not recommended to eat off these) to knock-off name brand clothing for extremely affordable prices. There are some very pleasant outdoor restaurants that serve as perfect spots to people watch and drink Presidente (their most popular Cola).

During the day and there are also several tourist shops where you can buy affordable presents for the family back home including authentic paintings and beautiful jewelry. There is also a very nice cigar shop at the end of the mall across from the cathedral. Clothes, however, are generally very economical and often of good quality. Most prices can be negotiated. US dollars are accepted in most areas.

Do not drink tap water! Locals, even in the most rural areas, will either boil their water or purchase bottled water. Eating salads or other food that may be washed in tap water is not advisable. Ice is a bad idea as well, except in luxury hotels and restaurants (which produce ice from bottled water). If you plan on cooking or washing dishes for longer stays, it is a good idea to rinse everything with bottled or boiled water before use.

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Dominican Republic

Food in the Dominican Republic is typical Caribbean fare, with lots of tropical fruits, Rice, beans, and seafood. Most restaurant meals will cost an additional 16% tax plus 10% service: for very good service, it is customary to leave an additional 10%. Halal restaurants are limited.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Dominican Republic, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Dominican Republic. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Dominican Republic and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Dominican Republic. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Dominican Republic. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Dominican Republic: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Dominican Republic.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Dominican Republic: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Dominican Republic, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Dominican Republic.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Dominican Republic, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Dominican Republic, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Dominican Republic and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Dominican Republic, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Dominican Republic, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Dominican Republic without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Dominican Republic is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Dominican Republic.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Dominican Republic is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Dominican Republic, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Dominican Republic Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Dominican Republic

eHalal Group Dominican Republic is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Dominican Republic. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Dominican Republic.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Dominican Republic ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Dominican Republic. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Dominican Republic, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Dominican Republic are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Dominican Republic

Lodging in the Dominican Republic is plentiful, with options ranging from huge, all-inclusive beach resorts to more personal options scattered along the coasts and in the cities. Hotels charge a 25% room tax, so inquire beforehand to determine if that tax is included (often the case) in the listed room price.

Study in Dominican Republic

Many US universities offer study abroad options for the Dominican Republic. The two most common cities hosting exchange students are Santo Domingo and Santiago. Check with local universities for programs and prices. Spanish language schools are located in major cities and on the north coast as well.

How to work legally in Dominican Republic

Most companies do not require anything more than a passport to work. There are a lot of US companies in the nation, especially in Santo Domingo and DN (the National District). There are good opportunities for English speaking employees. The country has several free zones, lots of them in the call center area.

Volunteer

There are several volunteer opportunities in the Dominican Republic. Many worldwide organizations offer extended travel for anyone willing to volunteer their time to work with local residents on projects such as community development, conservation, wildlife sanctuary maintenance & development, scientific research, and education programs.

Stay safe as a Muslim in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is generally a safe country. Although the major cities of Santo Domingo and Santiago have experienced the growth of a thriving middle class, construction booms and reached a high level of cosmopolitanism and the Dominican Republic remains a third world country and poverty is still rampant so you need to take common sense precautions:

• Very few streets are lit after dark, even in the capital of Santo Domingo. Those that are lit are subject to routine power outages.

Medical Issues in Dominican Republic

Malaria can be a rare issue around rainforests if travelers don't take protective measures such as repellents against mosquito bites. No cases have been reported over the past 8 years within the tourist areas. Be sure to consult with a physician before departure.

There is a risk of dengue fever and chikungunya fever which is contracted through mosquitoes that bite during the day and during some seasons of the year. No vaccine is available, so again using mosquito repellent is advisable.

Many of the local foods are safe to eat including the fruits and vegetables.

Visitors, however, should not drink any of the local water and should stay with bottled water or other beverages. It is important for visitors to stay hydrated in the hot, humid climate.

Sunburn and sun poisoning are a great risk. The sun is very bright here. Use at least SPF30 sunblock. Limit sun exposure.

Local Customs in Dominican Republic

Dominicans are kind and peaceful people. Attempts at speaking Spanish are a good sign of respect for the local people. Be polite, show respect, and do your best to speak the language, and you will be treated with kindness.

When staying at the luxury resorts or really any place in the Dominican Republic, it is advisable to tip for most services. The Dominican Republic is still a fairly poor country and tipping the people who serve you helps them better their sometimes dire economic situation.

Telecommunications in Dominican Republic

Telephone numbers in the Dominican Republic use area code 809 with 829 and 849 as overlay codes. Telecommunications in the Dominican Republic use the North American Numbering Plan country code, 1, followed by the area code as in the U.S. and Canada.

When in the Dominican Republic and the 3-digit area code followed by the 7-digit phone number must be dialed. When calling the Dominican Republic from the United States or Canada, this must be prefixed by the digit "1", it will be charged at international rate. From other countries the international prefix used in the originating country must be dialed before the "1".

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