From the UK there is a nonstop route to Punta Cana; from Ireland you will connect. After a long flight and a four- or five-hour time change, it pays to have the arrival sorted before you leave home.
Landing after a long-haul flight
After more than nine hours in the air, the last thing you want is to negotiate a taxi at arrivals. With your transfer booked, you walk out and go straight to your hotel.
If you connect in the US or Europe, give us the number of the flight that lands in the Dominican Republic.
Flights from the UK and Ireland
| From | To | How |
|---|---|---|
| London Gatwick (LGW) | PUJ | Nonstop, about 9 h 15 |
| Manchester | PUJ, SDQ | With a connection |
| Dublin | PUJ, SDQ | With a connection |
Routes checked in September 2026. They change by season: confirm before you book.
Which airport to fly into
- SDQ — Las Américas (Santo Domingo): best for Santo Domingo, Boca Chica, Juan Dolio.
- PUJ — Punta Cana: best for Punta Cana, Bávaro, Cap Cana, Uvero Alto.
Destination not listed? See the full airport table.
Time, money and phone
- Time: The Dominican Republic is 4 hours behind the UK and Ireland in winter and 5 hours behind in summer.
- Money: Pounds and euros are rarely accepted: change to US dollars or Dominican pesos (RD$) before you travel. Cards work in hotels and larger shops.
- Phone: Roaming bundles from UK and Irish carriers often exclude the Caribbean: check yours, or buy an eSIM before you fly.
- Busy periods: School holidays, Christmas and Easter are the busiest times.
Documents
Passport and the free e-Ticket at eticket.migracion.gob.do, completed before check-in. Until December 31, 2026, a special measure lets UK and EU citizens (Ireland included) travelling for tourism enter with a passport that is simply valid for the whole stay, instead of the usual six months. Full entry requirements.
Airport transfer
Send us on WhatsApp the number of the flight landing in the Dominican Republic, the date, how many people are travelling and where you are going. We will send you a quote before you leave the UK and Ireland.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to enter the Dominican Republic?
A valid passport and the free e-Ticket, completed before check-in. Until December 31, 2026 your passport only needs to be valid for your whole stay.
What is the time difference between the UK and Ireland and the Dominican Republic?
The Dominican Republic is 4 hours behind the UK and Ireland in winter and 5 hours behind in summer.
Is there a direct flight from the UK to the Dominican Republic?
Yes: London Gatwick to Punta Cana, about 9 hours 15 minutes. From Manchester and Dublin you fly with a connection.