Meliá Hotels Facing Uncertainty in Cuba Amidst U.S. Sanctions

Qué pasó

Meliá Hotels International has ceased its management, commercialization, and brand usage services for 15 hotels in Cuba. This significant move, executed through its Portuguese subsidiary Ilha Bela, marks a partial withdrawal from the island.

The decision impacts hotels previously associated with the military conglomerate GAESA, leaving Meliá's future operations in Cuba uncertain.

Dónde y cuándo

The announcement was made on June 3, 2026, with immediate effect. The affected hotels are located across Cuba, including popular tourist destinations.

Prior to this, Meliá managed 34 hotels on the island; it continues to operate in 19 others.

Por qué es importante

This partial retreat by a major international hotel chain highlights the increasing risks and complexities of operating in Cuba's tourism sector.

It directly correlates with the U.S. government's intensified sanctions against entities connected to the Cuban regime and GAESA, impacting foreign investment and operations.

Qué dicen las partes

Meliá's President and CEO, Gabriel Escarrer Jaume, stated the company is complying with U.S. State Department directives regarding its Cuban operations.

He expressed uncertainty about the company's future presence in Cuba, attributing the decision to a mix of geopolitical, legal, economic, and operational factors.

Qué viene ahora

The future of Meliá's operations in Cuba remains unclear. The company's continued presence will likely depend on the evolving U.S. sanctions landscape and the overall conditions of the Cuban tourism market.

Cuba's tourism sector is experiencing a severe downturn, with visitor numbers and hotel occupancy rates significantly declining in 2025.