In a landmark diplomatic development, Antigua & Barbuda and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have formalized a mutual visa waiver agreement that eliminates visa requirements for citizens of Antigua & Barbuda visiting the UAE. The accord, signed on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, is poised to deepen people-to-people ties, boost business and tourism, and enhance bilateral cooperation.
Waiver Terms & Implementation
According to the UAE’s “Visa Exemptions for Non-Citizen” list, Antigua and Barbuda is explicitly named among countries whose citizens no longer need a visa to enter the UAE. (
mofa.gov.ae) Media outlets covering the development report that the agreement was signed by Antigua’s Foreign Affairs Minister E. P. Chet Greene and UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy.
Under the new arrangement, holders of Antiguan and Barbudan passports may enter the UAE without obtaining a visa in advance—a significant change from prior requirements that often compelled travelers to apply for electronic visas (eVisas).
Strategic Implications & Travel Freedom
For Antigua & Barbuda, the waiver is a diplomatic achievement strengthening its global mobility and raising the attractiveness of its passport. As of late 2024, Antiguan and Barbudan passport holders already enjoyed visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 destinations. With the UAE added, the “passport power” further increases. News sources calling it a “mobility upgrade” suggest enhanced opportunity for travel, investment, and cultural exchange.
From the UAE’s perspective, the waiver underscores its ambition to expand international cooperation and foster closer relationships with Eastern Caribbean states. The move could unlock new channels for trade, tourism, and investment between the two nations.
What Travelers Should Know
- The UAE government’s official portal currently lists Antigua & Barbuda among visa-exempt nations for entry. (mofa.gov.ae)
- Travelers should carry a valid passport and check any additional entry requirements (such as return tickets, proof of accommodation, or financial means) prior to departure.
- Because the agreement is new, both governments may need to update internal systems and border controls; travelers are advised to confirm the status with UAE immigration or the Antiguan Ministry of Foreign Affairs ahead of travel.
- As with any visa waiver, the exemption typically applies to short-term visits (tourism, business, transit). The waiver may not cover long-term stays, work, or residency—such categories will still require the appropriate permit or visa.
Context & Outlook
This visa waiver is part of a broader trend of expanding global mobility through bilateral or multilateral agreements. For Antigua & Barbuda, which runs a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, increasing the utility and reach of its passport is a key objective—a passport that grants visa-free access to economic hubs such as the UAE boosts attractiveness to global investors.
If implemented smoothly, the waiver is expected to generate more travel flows to the UAE, elevate business links, and strengthen cultural exchanges. Both governments may issue further guidance or protocols in the coming weeks to operationalize the agreement at land, sea, and air ports of entry.
