Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez says a wave of major hotel developments planned for Antigua and Barbuda will raise the country’s tourism product to new international standards, focusing on quality, sustainability and global competitiveness rather than simply increasing room stock.

Speaking in a video message outlining the government’s tourism strategy for 2026, Fernandez said the coming year will be pivotal for hotel and resort development, with several large projects moving forward simultaneously .

“2026 will be a pivotal year for hotel and resort development,” Fernandez said. “Strong momentum continues across major projects that elevate global competitiveness while expanding capacity and employment” .

Among the developments highlighted were projects involving Marriott , Moongate Development , Nikki Beach Resort and Spa , and the Nobu Hotel.

Fernandez said the projects represent more than additional hotel rooms, describing them as signals of a shift toward higher standards in luxury, branding and visitor experience.

“Developments such as the Marriott Resort, Moongate Development, Nikki Beach Resort and Spa, and the Noble Hotel represent more than additional rooms,” he said. “They signal new standards in quality, luxury, and international brand presence” .

The minister added that the investments are being advanced with sustainability, workforce development and community integration as core requirements, with the aim of ensuring tourism growth delivers broad-based benefits across the country.

“These investments are being advanced with sustainability, workforce development, and community integration at the forefront, ensuring tourism growth benefits the wider society,” Fernandez said .