- Population:
- 11,428,000
- Religion:
- Christianity
The Dominican Republic was once part of the Spanish colony of Hispaniola before becoming independent in 1844. It has experienced periods of dictatorship and political instability but has developed into one of the fastest-growing economies in its region, with tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing as key industries.
The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean nation occupying the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with Haiti. Covering approximately 48,671 square kilometers, it has a population estimated at over 11.5 million people as of 2025. The capital and largest city is Santo Domingo. The official language is Spanish. The country operates as a unitary presidential republic, with the President serving as both head of state and government. The Dominican Republic boasts the largest economy in the Caribbean and Central American region, driven by sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, and mining. It is the most visited destination in the Caribbean, known for its diverse geography that includes the Caribbean's tallest mountain peak, Pico Duarte, and the largest lake, Lake Enriquillo. The nation is a member of international organizations like the United Nations, the Organization of American States, and the World Trade Organization.