TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
Tourism leaders from the Caribbean nation visit UAE as part of a week-long mission to deepen connections between the two countries and showcase the islands’ extensive appeal and best environmental practices in a conversation with UAE’s Green Sheikh at EXPO 2020 – including a nationwide ban on plastic.
A high-level government and tourism delegation from Antigua and Barbuda visited the United Arab Emirates last week as part of a week-long promotional and development mission to deepen connections between the two countries and showcase the allure of the destination. Located at the heart of the Caribbean, the twin-island paradise is known for its 365 white and pink sandy beaches, cheerful weather, and world-class resorts. While it has long been a favourite with affluent US and British travellers, it is now emerging as a must-visit destination for Middle East travellers, with its award-winning V.C. Bird International Airport providing convenient travel connections from key international hubs, including London, New York and Miami.
To highlight the exceptional range of experiences on offer, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has hosted a series of events across the UAE over the past week, including a culinary masterclass with the Antiguan and Barbudan chef Lejorn Hill, who is Executive Chef at Dubai’s Paramount Hotel, providing a taste of Antigua and Barbuda cooking experience. Fashion-loving Emirati women were also treated to a virtual fashion show by Antigua and Barbuda’s iconic female fashion designers and artists, while an exclusive dinner with CEOs from major travel corporations at the world’s tallest restaurant, At.mosphere, at the Burj Khalifa, provided a meaningful and memorable networking opportunity. The team also hosted an insightful panel session at the Antigua and Barbuda Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai to discuss the destination and the positive social, economic and environmental impact of its wide-ranging approach to sustainable tourism.
Led by Colin C. James, Chief Executive Officer, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, and supported by Patrice Simon, Executive Director, Antigua Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association, the conversation also featured insights from Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Ali Al Nuaimi, known as ‘Green Sheikh’ and the official environmental adviser to Ajman Government.
APPEAL FOR ME TRAVELLERS
Antigua and Barbuda welcomes over a million visitors annually to its shores and is well positioned to meet and exceed the needs of travellers from across the region. “There is undoubtedly a strong synergy between what we offer as a destination, and what visitors from the region are looking for when it comes to travel experiences,” explained Colin James.
GETTING THERE TO GET EASIER
James said they have laid the groundwork for introducing air services. “We are continuing to have meaningful discussions with Emirates Airlines and are hopeful we will be at the top of their list, making it even easier to get to our little piece of paradise,” he said.
TOTAL BAN ON PLASTIC
Patrice Simon explained how Antigua and Barbuda was the first country in the western hemisphere to ban plastic bags in 2016, followed by a total ban on all plastics and Styrofoam in 2018.
100% GREEN ENERGY
The island of Barbuda, was devastated by hurricane Irma in 2017. It has since been reconstructed, but with a small section of our total population living on Barbuda – with around just 1,500 permanent residents.
