Colin James - CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority

Antigua and Barbuda are gearing up for a landmark year in tourism, unveiling an impressive slate of developments, major anniversaries, cultural festivals, and luxury openings—solidifying their position as one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic and culturally rich destinations. The Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority used World Travel Market 2025 to spotlight both the island nation’s rapid progress and its strategic vision for 2026.

A Better Arrival Experience and a Major Heritage Milestone

A major highlight for 2025 was the launch of ArriveAntigua.com, a new smart border-control system designed to dramatically reduce time spent on arrival and move visitors to the beaches faster than anywhere else in the Caribbean.

Alongside this innovation, the nation celebrated the 300th anniversary of the Antigua Naval Dockyard, the world’s only working Georgian dockyard and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The year-long commemoration included heritage tours, educational programmes, maritime showcases, and vibrant cultural festivals, marking three centuries of Caribbean history, craft, and naval tradition.

A Flourishing Cultural Calendar

Antigua and Barbuda’s culture-driven strategy continues to reap rewards. The third edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week brought together more than 50 artists with exhibitions, workshops, live performances, and gallery tours across the islands—an immersive blend of heritage and contemporary Caribbean creativity. The twin islands also launched Culinary Month, expanding their celebrated Restaurant Week with visiting Caribbean-heritage chefs and earning the title of Caribbean’s Best Emerging Culinary Destination.

A Leading Meetings & Conferences Destination

The islands’ MICE credentials continue to soar. After hosting major global events—including SIDS4, the 55th OAS General Assembly, and the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace—Antigua and Barbuda will welcome the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2026, its largest global gathering yet, hosting His Majesty King Charles III and leaders from 56 nations.

New Luxury Resorts and Major Investments for 2026

The destination is entering a new era of upscale development, with several major hospitality projects on the horizon:

• Nobu Beach Inn Barbuda, a five-star expansion of the celebrated Nobu Beach Club
• The Residences at Nikki Beach, bringing 134 luxury units to Jolly Beach
• Moon Gate Antigua, an adults-only boutique opening in November 2025
• Carlisle Bay’s multimillion-dollar renovation, completing in 2027
• Curtain Bluff’s US$40 million redevelopment, including new beachfront villas
• Hermitage Bay’s US$30 million relaunch, including exclusive vintage schooner excursions
• Marriott Resort at Yepton Beach, with overwater villas opening in 2028

Better Connectivity: By Sea and Air

The reopening of Barbuda International Airport in 2024 has unlocked new inter-island connectivity, with LIAT now operating regular 25-minute direct flights between Antigua and Barbuda. A new cruise terminal is also set to open in late 2025, increasing capacity for larger vessels.

Events for Every Month of 2026

From Regatta Month, Romance Month, and Wellness Month, to the Antigua Racing Cup, Corporate Games, Art Week, Sailing Week, and Carnival, Antigua and Barbuda offer one of the Caribbean’s most complete year-round event calendars—made clear by the detailed schedule released for 2026.

Sustainable Growth and Strong UK Market Performance

Sustainable tourism remains a guiding principle, with eco-projects shaping new developments. The UK remains one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most valuable markets: visitor numbers rose** 4.4% year-on-year in 2025**, with UK travellers staying an average of 12 days, a significant driver of local economic impact.

Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, and Condor continue to offer strong winter connectivity.

A Destination Built on Heritage, Nature, and Culture

With 365 beaches, a thriving culinary scene, UNESCO-protected heritage, and new ultra-luxury experiences, Antigua and Barbuda move into 2026 with confidence—honouring tradition while embracing innovation.