Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector has had its best year ever regarding visitor numbers and economic impact. The twin island nation has seen massive tourism growth driven by strategic infrastructure projects and a series of major events, including the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The first half of 2024 has witnessed a record-breaking surge in visitors, rising by over ten percent compared to 2023, solidifying Antigua and Barbuda as a top Caribbean destination.
Antigua Sees Record Arrivals
Tourist arrivals in Antigua and Barbuda have skyrocketed in 2024 compared to previous years.
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Board reported an increase of more than 20,000 visitors between January and June 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
Minister of Tourism Max Fernandez announced that the country recorded its highest month-over-month growth to date, with stopover visitor numbers climbing 42 percent in June.
Key tourism markets for Antigua and Barbuda
The US and UK are Antigua and Barbuda’s primary source markets for tourism growth. Tourist arrivals from the US were exceptionally high, thanks to increased flight options and focused marketing efforts, resulting in a 46 percent rise from 11,032 in June 2023 to 16,084 in June 2024. Arrivals from the UK were also up by 15 percent compared to June last year.
Cruise arrivals
The cruise industry also performed outstandingly, with arrivals between January and June 2024 rising by an impressive 30 percent relative to the same period in 2023.
Initiatives Boosting Antigua and Barbuda Tourism
Infrastructure projects
Recent infrastructure development has been vital in stimulating the increase in tourism in Antigua and Barbuda. The country’s VC Bird International Airport expansion, featuring a $4 million upgrade with new self-serve kiosks in 2024, has greatly enhanced both visitor convenience and operational efficiency.
Recent developments include several upscale hotels and resorts in Antigua’s best towns, such as the BluPearl at Hodges Bay, located just five kilometers from VC Bird International Airport.
Funded by the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program, this development expands the country’s accommodation options and overall guest experience.
Marketing initiatives
Antigua and Barbuda’s success is also down to marketing initiatives like “Your Space in the Sun” that have put the destination on the world map. The tourism authority launched several campaigns in recent years, leading to Antigua and Barbuda receiving the 2020 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards from the Caribbean Tourism Organization for effectively addressing consumers’ growing preferences for spacious accommodations and higher service levels.
Globally Recognized Antigua and Barbuda Events and Festivals
Antigua Carnival
The Antigua Carnival has become one of the Caribbean’s biggest cultural events, gaining international recognition. Thousands of tourists from around the world attend the festival held at the end of July and the beginning of August, booking out Antigua and Barbuda hotels. The event is getting more media coverage and bigger crowds every year.
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup
Antigua was a joint host of the 2024 International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup, showcasing its commitment to global sports and tourism. The country welcomed thousands of cricket fans from around the world by hosting eight matches at its Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
Antigua Sailing Week
Alongside Antigua Carnival, the country is well-known for Antigua Sailing Week, an event attracting yachting enthusiasts and spectators worldwide since it was first held in 1967. Regarded as one of the world’s leading regattas, it is one of the best things to experience in Antigua, hosting more than 100 yachts, 1,500 participants, and draws an average of 5,000 spectators annually.
Future Benefits for Antigua and Barbuda and CBI Investors
As Antigua and Barbuda prepares for flight expansions, including Condor Airlines launching services from Frankfurt in November and Caribbean Airlines starting inter-Caribbean routes in October, experts anticipate ongoing growth in the Antigua tourism sector.
New resorts and continued airport infrastructure development will increase the islands’ ability to attract more visitors.
There is growing interest in eco-tourism and wellness travel, fitting perfectly with approved Antigua real estate projects like Sugar Ridge Villas and Verandah Estates.
CBI Benefits
Naturally, the tourism boom in Antigua and Barbuda greatly benefits CBI applicants. As the destination grows in popularity, so does the value of real estate and investment opportunities. CBI applicants can earn significant returns on property investments in high-demand areas while qualifying for an Antigua and Barbuda passport.
The strong tourism performance also improved the stability and attractiveness of Antigua and Barbuda’s CBI program, allowing investors to secure citizenship and enjoy the benefits of a hot travel destination.
Take a look at our Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Ultimate Guide
