Antigua and Barbuda is gearing up for a landmark year in tourism, with projections indicating that 2025 could surpass the record-breaking numbers achieved in 2024. Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez shared this optimistic outlook during a recent regional industry conference, highlighting the strong booking trends for the latter half of the year. The first half of 2025 has already mirrored the robust performance of 2024, which saw the twin-island nation and the broader Caribbean region set unprecedented arrival records. Fernandez emphasized that the surge in bookings across cruise, air, and yachting sectors positions 2025 to exceed the previous year’s figures. However, he also cautioned about external factors that could impact performance, such as the uncertainty surrounding a potential U.S. government shutdown—a critical source market for Antigua and Barbuda—and ongoing challenges with airlift capacity. To mitigate these risks, the government is actively diversifying its tourism markets. Recent air service agreements with Qatar and Saudi Arabia, along with discussions with Emirates Airlines, aim to establish direct flights from the Middle East and Africa within the next 6 to 12 months. Infrastructure development is another cornerstone of the nation’s strategy. The V.C. Bird International Airport is undergoing a $50 million runway resurfacing project, while Barbuda’s new international airport, operational since October 2024, is being marketed as a luxury gateway for high-end travelers and private jets. Fernandez also highlighted the growing importance of sports tourism, with events like the Caribbean Dinghy Challenge expected to attract visitors in the coming months. Despite the challenges, Fernandez remains optimistic about the future, citing Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic infrastructure, logistics, and market diversification as key drivers for sustained tourism growth.
VIDEO: Antigua and Barbuda Eyes Record-Breaking Tourism Year in 2025
