UAE Entry for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship via Investment

The visa waiver agreement was signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda, E. P. Chet Green, and the UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi.

This development is significant for Antigua and Barbuda citizens who obtained Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship via Investment, given the UAE’s status as a major hub for business, tourism, medical treatment, and education. Visa-free entry increases the practical value for holders of Antigua and Barbuda passport by investment and simplifies lengthy travel procedures.

Is the visa exemption currently in effect?

As of November 5, 2025, the official website of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs still lists citizens of Antigua and Barbuda in the “Visa Required” category.

This means that while the agreement has been signed, visa-free entry will not be effective until ratification and the exchange of notes are completed. Travelers should check their visa status before booking flights.

Opening of the Antigua and Barbuda Embassy in Abu Dhabi

On May 21, 2025, Antigua and Barbuda officially opened its embassy in Abu Dhabi.

A permanent diplomatic mission typically expedites the implementation of agreements and clarifies the requirements for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship via investment once the exemption is fully in effect.

Benefits of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship After Agreement

If the visa waiver comes into effect soon (a logical step following the signing), the benefits for investors will include:

✓ Easy access to a major economic hub (for meetings, exhibitions, and partnerships).

✓ A simpler travel experience without the need for prior e-visa processing.

✓ Higher global mobility for families holding Antigua and Barbuda citizenship via investment.

✓ A more flexible travel lifestyle without the need to plan every quick business trip in advance.

What should you do before booking or traveling?

1. Officially check your visa status on the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before purchasing tickets. This is the final reference for airlines and border control.

2. Ask the airline for confirmation via the IATA Timatic system (used at the check-in counter). If it says “Visa Required,” the application process has not yet begun.

3. If you have an urgent meeting in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, arrange to obtain a pre-approved visa until visa-free entry is officially announced.

Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship via Investment: Attraction

The agreement itself enhances the appeal of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship via investment by adding another major destination to the list of countries offering visa-free entry.

At the same time, Antigua expanded its diplomatic reach during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly by signing additional visa waivers with African countries such as Ghana, Kenya, and Benin, demonstrating a clear commitment to promoting this Caribbean passport globally.

Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship via Investment Requirements

Regarding the oath-taking ceremony for new citizens, the ceremony was held in the UAE itself from December 9 to 14, 2024, and was presided over by the non-resident Ambassador.

This demonstrates the program’s flexibility for UAE residents. The Citizenship by Investment Unit may announce similar timelines later. The requirement to spend five days in Antigua and Barbuda within the first five years remains in place, but the local oath-taking ceremony simplifies the process for expatriate investors.

Quick FAQs about the Agreement

· When will visa-free entry actually begin?

Most likely after all official procedures are completed and published on the official portals. As of now, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not updated Antigua’s status, meaning implementation is still pending—but probably not far off.

· Should I change my travel plans?

If your trip is close, apply for a visa as usual. If the deadline is two or three months away, keep checking the official website regularly – updates may be made quickly once the process is complete.

· Does this change my decision to apply for citizenship?

The agreement adds real value to the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship via Investment Program, and with the opening of the new Abu Dhabi Embassy, ​​communication has become easier.

However, your decision should consider all aspects of the citizenship by investment program (family costs, taxes, processing speed, etc.). The visa exemption is important, but it is not the only reason to apply.

Summary

▣ The visa exemption agreement between Antigua and Barbuda and the UAE has been officially signed, further enhancing the value of the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship via Investment Program.

▣ On the UAE’s official website, entry still requires a visa as of this writing –check for updates before traveling.

▣ The opening of the Abu Dhabi Embassy in May 2025 is a crucial step towards accelerating the implementation of bilateral services.

Applying for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship via Investment

For detailed information about Antigua and Barbuda citizenship via investment or the latest updates on the visa waiver application in the UAE, you can contact the Global Citizen Consultants Team.

We provide professional guidance on investment citizenship programs and help interested applicants understand the legal requirements before making any decisions.