27 September
Citizenship
Antigua and Barbuda Signs Historic Visa-Free Agreement with the United Arab Emirates
- Ahmed hamdy Ahmed hamdy
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Antigua and Barbuda has achieved yet another diplomatic milestone by signing a landmark visa-waiver agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The signing ceremony, which took place in New York on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, marked the beginning of a new chapter of cooperation, investment, and global mobility for citizens of the Caribbean state.
Easier Travel, Stronger Ties
Under this agreement, citizens of Antigua and Barbuda will now enjoy visa-free entry into the UAE, one of the fastest-growing hubs for business, tourism, and innovation in the Middle East. This move is expected to significantly boost bilateral relations, making it easier for individuals and businesses to travel, explore opportunities, and build meaningful partnerships.
The signing was conducted by E.P. Chet Greene, Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, the UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation. Both officials highlighted the importance of deepening the bonds of friendship and collaboration between their nations.
Development and Investment Partnerships
The UAE has long been a partner in the development of Antigua and Barbuda, especially through the US$50 million UAE–Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund (UAE-CREF). One of the flagship projects of this cooperation is the Green Barbuda Project, which combines an 800kW diesel plant with a 720kW hybrid solar facility. This project is helping to reduce the island’s dependence on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and promote sustainable growth.
By removing visa restrictions, Antigua and Barbuda is positioning itself to attract even more Emirati investments in renewable energy, tourism, education, and infrastructure, while also opening the door for Antiguan entrepreneurs, students, and professionals to access opportunities in the UAE.
Statements from Leaders: During the signing, Foreign Minister Greene stated:
“This agreement is more than just about visas—it is about building bridges. For Antigua and Barbuda as a small island developing state, I see this as a gateway to new opportunities across tourism, education, culture, and business. It also reflects the strength of our friendship with the UAE and our shared vision for the future.”
The UAE’s Minister Al Hashimy emphasized the UAE’s commitment to fostering partnerships with Caribbean nations and praised Antigua and Barbuda for its forward-thinking approach to diplomacy and development.
Global Connectivity and Opportunities
The visa-free deal is expected to bring tangible benefits for Antigua and Barbuda:
•Boosting Tourism: Easier travel between the two nations will encourage tourism exchange.
•Investment Growth: UAE investors can more easily explore projects in real estate, infrastructure, and energy in Antigua and Barbuda.
•Education & Culture: Antiguans students and professionals can access new educational and cultural opportunities in the UAE.
•Strengthening Diplomacy: The deal positions Antigua and Barbuda as a proactive player in building global partnerships.
Attendees at the Ceremony
The signing event was witnessed by several senior officials, including Ambassador Walton Webson, Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations; Ambassador Gilbert Boustany; Ambassador Mohammed El Zohbi; and Asha Challenger, First Secretary at the Antigua and Barbuda Mission.
A Diplomatic Milestone
With this agreement, Antigua and Barbuda joins a growing list of Caribbean nations that have successfully established visa-free travel arrangements with the UAE. It represents not only a win for Antigua and Barbuda’s citizens but also a clear message that the country continues to expand its global reach and secure new opportunities for its people.
This historic moment cements Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a forward-looking nation that actively builds bridges across continents. The visa-free deal with the UAE is being celebrated both as a diplomatic victory and as a foundation for stronger economic and cultural cooperation in the years ahead.
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