A major expansion project is set to reshape Sandals Resorts International’s Antiguan property, with plans to add 100 new guest rooms — including 16 luxury overwater bungalows — details of which were formally shared during Wednesday’s meeting of the Antiguan Cabinet.
Maurice Merchant, the nation’s Director General of Communications, confirmed that Prime Minister Gaston Browne updated Cabinet members on recent negotiations held between government officials and Sandals Group representatives. As the Caribbean hospitality brand advances its goal to grow its room inventory across Antigua and Barbuda, the proposal has already received a warm reception from the country’s top governing body. Cabinet members not only approved the initiative, but also emphasized their enthusiasm for the far-reaching positive impacts it could deliver to Antigua and Barbuda’s core tourism sector.
This expansion announcement aligns with the Antiguan government’s long-running strategy to proactively attract foreign and private investment to the tourism industry, which stands as one of the primary pillars of the country’s national economy, supporting thousands of local jobs and driving consistent foreign exchange earnings.
While no official construction or completion timeline was released to the public during the post-Cabinet briefing, Merchant noted that ongoing talks between government stakeholders and Sandals leadership are moving forward smoothly as the resort firm solidifies its development blueprints for the twin-island nation.
When the expansion is fully completed, the new rooms and signature overwater bungalows will significantly broaden Antigua’s portfolio of high-end accommodation options. Industry analysts and tourism officials expect the upgrade to boost the destination’s overall competitiveness in the crowded Caribbean luxury travel market, drawing more high-spending visitors seeking exclusive premium resort experiences.