Exclusive: Cancún Hotel Zone Transfer Delays Sparks Controversy

The Trust responsible for the upkeep and operation of Cancún's hotel zone (Foatqroo) has begun its duties. However, the National Fund for Tourism Development (Fonatur) has yet to finalize the transfer of certain buildings. Some of these properties, such as Tajamar Cancún, are currently under litigation.

Bernardo Cueto, the Secretary of Tourism for the state, confirmed that the Trust is now operational. It is overseen by the private sector, condominium owners, and authorities who decide where and how resources will be allocated. Cueto anticipates significant improvements in the hotel zone, including enhanced roadways and lighting. He also highlighted the progress of the Vial Bridge, which is currently under construction and reportedly 60% complete.

Cueto outlined strategies for maintaining the area's landscaping and other projects aimed at enhancing Cancún's global reputation. He assured that the quality of all services in the hotel zone will be maintained during the festive season.

However, he acknowledged that the transfer process for some buildings from Fonatur to the State Projects Agency (Agepro) is still ongoing. "There are still some issues that need to be resolved. The operation, management, and maintenance are already in place, but there are still end-of-six-year issues to address," he said.

Cueto reaffirmed the state's commitment to resolving these issues. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with society and the state's hotel and tourism sector to overcome these challenges.

Among the buildings still awaiting transfer is Tajamar Cancún. This property was sold eight years ago, but its development was halted due to environmental litigation that ultimately cancelled the real estate project planned by Fonatur.

Additionally, there are several plots of land that were auctioned by Fonatur at the end of 2023. Of the 33 plots, only seven were successfully sold. In Cozumel, 20 plots were put up for tender.

Other pending items include plots of land with rental value that Fonatur received from commercial premises and hotels like the Oasis and the Melia. These properties generate an average of one million pesos per month. The total budget that the Trust will have for Cancún's maintenance has not been officially disclosed. However, it is known that approximately 250 million pesos are guaranteed for this purpose in the hotel zone. Hoteliers and businessmen have suggested that at least one billion pesos will be needed in the coming years to maintain and enhance the quality of this destination's image and services.