More developments are coming to Barbuda in the new year including both public sector and private sector investments in infrastructure and tourism.
This was outlined on Thursday by Prime Minister Gaston Browne when he delivered the 2026 National Budget to the Antigua and Barbuda parliament. The budget is entitled; The People-Centred Growth and Development Budget.
The prime minister announced that one of the developments that is coming to Barbuda is the $300 million MurBee development which is expected to begin construction in the first half of 2026. He added that Nobu has already invested US$70 million, with another US$40 million committed for 2026. This is in addition to the developments taking place as part of the PLH Development.
“Mr. Speaker, the Barbuda Ocean Club (PLH Development) remains central to national growth and development. In 2026 alone, PLH will generate more than US$100 million in direct expenditure and support 800 jobs, over 80 per cent held by Barbudans. ABST revenue to the Barbuda Council now exceeds $5 million yearly and growing.
“With the opening of the Burton-Nibbs International Airport, tourism on Barbuda has surged: more than 200 international flights arrived in 2025, and over 300 are expected in 2026,” PM Browne revealed.
He announced that Barbuda will benefit with a planned $50 million road project, a new $14 million cargo and tourism port, a primary school funded by the Dominican Republic, and continued expansion of the Burton–Nibbs International Airport.
These investments, he explained, are structured to empower local contractors and strengthen the island’s long-term development.
Additionally, Barbuda will share in another housing development project that will be funded by the Chinese government. According to PM Browne, the Chinese government has agreed to fund 100 condominium-style homes in Antigua and Barbuda; 50 have been earmarked for Barbuda and the other 50 for Bolans.
