Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, Charles Fernandez, held a high-level bilateral meeting with Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on the margins of the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The discussions centered on advancing cooperation in tourism development, air connectivity, and global economic collaboration between the twin-island nation and the UAE. Both ministers shared a mutual commitment to deepening ties and exploring practical opportunities for partnership.

Hon. H. Charles Fernandez and His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

A key focus of the talks was the potential launch of Emirates Airlines flights to Antigua and Barbuda, which would strengthen air links between the Caribbean and the Middle East. The ministers also examined the feasibility of joint tour packages designed to promote multi-destination travel, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a gateway for Middle Eastern visitors seeking authentic Caribbean experiences.

Minister Fernandez expressed Antigua and Barbuda’s appreciation for the UAE’s leadership in global tourism and its forward-looking approach to economic transformation. He also reaffirmed the country’s support for the UAE’s candidacy in key international tourism and economic organizations, citing the Emirates’ innovation-driven model as an inspiration for small island developing states.

“Strengthening partnerships like these helps to bridge markets, cultures, and opportunities,” Minister Fernandez said. “Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to fostering strategic alliances that promote sustainable tourism growth, trade expansion, and mutual prosperity.”

Accompanying Minister Fernandez was H.E. Theon Ali, Ambassador to Qatar and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Antigua and Barbuda in the UAE, who emphasized that such engagements represent an important step toward expanding the country’s diplomatic and tourism footprint across the Middle East.

The meeting underscored both nations’ shared vision of leveraging tourism as a driver of economic diversification and global connection — setting the stage for deeper cooperation and a stronger Caribbean–Middle East partnership.