The Antigua and Barbuda government has welcomed the start of construction on the US$200 million Long Bay Zen Resort, describing the project as part of the country’s broader strategy to attract more high-end luxury tourism investments.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne, speaking at the sod-turning ceremony, said the resort is being developed along the lines of ultra-luxury properties such as Hermitage Hotel, where guests can pay as much as US$3,000 per night.
“This is where we want them to go,” Browne said, referring to affluent travelers. “Offer service at a premium while at the same time take care of the staff.”
He said the government wants tourism development to benefit both investors and workers, ensuring luxury properties remain profitable while employees receive fair compensation.
“We want to pursue our development in an integrated way, and we want to ensure that these luxury properties can operate profitably while at the same time ensure the staff is well paid,” Browne said.
The prime minister reiterated his administration’s position that hotel workers should earn above the country’s planned lifestyle minimum wage.
“We want to make sure that when you work in the sector you can at least afford the basic mortgage,” Browne said. “I believe that those who work in this hotel property will be properly remunerated so that they can afford a small mortgage to take care of themselves and their families.”
Browne also praised the developers, saying the project has the government’s “full endorsement” and describing principal investor Sophie Zhong as a committed long-term investor.
He noted that despite setbacks tied to investments in a financial institution that faced challenges, the developers continued injecting new capital into Antigua and Barbuda.
“That’s what you call real commitment,” Browne said.
Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez said the project represents another step toward the country’s Vision 2030 tourism and national development strategy.
“This project represents a new direction for tourism in Antigua and Barbuda,” Fernandez said. “Long Bay Zen Resort embodies the evolving demands of the modern traveler, one who seeks more than just accommodation, but experience, wellness, authenticity, tranquility and connection.”
Fernandez said the development comes as Antigua and Barbuda continues expanding its international airlift and tourism infrastructure.
“As our airport expansion continues and as we aggressively pursue increased airlift and new international routes into Antigua and Barbuda, the demand for quality room stock continues to grow,” he said. “Developments such as this position us strongly for the future.”
He said the resort aligns with the government’s broader tourism strategy focused on sustainability, innovation, luxury development, community involvement and long-term economic resilience.
Zhong said the resort reflects the government’s vision for a smarter and more sustainable future for Antigua and Barbuda.
“Antigua and Barbuda is already a champion of sustainable tourism,” Zhong said. “Prime Minister Browne has taken that further. He has set a bold vision for a Smart Island future, where renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and climate resilience shape how this nation welcomes the world. Long Bay Zen Resort is our answer to that call.”
The development will feature 113 luxury accommodations designed around the concept of “quiet luxury.”
“With rising visitor numbers and record air connectivity, demand for the very best Antigua has to offer has never been stronger,” Zhong said.
“We are responding with 113 luxury keys, built in the spirit of quiet luxury — understated, refined, and deeply connected to this landscape.”
One of the resort’s signature attractions will be an overwater chapel aimed at strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s position in the destination wedding market.
“I believe it will further cement Antigua’s reputation as the Caribbean’s premier destination wedding location,” Zhong said.
She added that the resort will incorporate renewable energy systems, low-carbon operations, intelligent guest services and automated transportation technologies as part of its sustainability-focused design.
“At the heart of this resort is our commitment to sustainability,” Zhong said. “We rely heavily on green energy, with low-carbon operations designed to leave the lightest possible footprint on this protected coastline.”
