Barbados is set to become more accessible to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) travellers this winter as increased air connectivity through the UK expands options for reaching the Caribbean island.

From October 25, 2026, British Airways will launch a new daily service between London Gatwick and Barbados, complementing its existing London Heathrow operations.

Virgin Atlantic will then resume its seasonal direct service between Manchester and Barbados from October26, 2026 through March 19, 2027.

The expanded services will provide GCC travellers with one-stop options via London, Manchester and North American gateways including New York, as well as Toronto, Montreal and Frankfurt.

Airline partnerships are also supporting connectivity, including Qatar Airways-British Airways services via London and Saudia-Virgin Atlantic connections from Riyadh and Jeddah.

Kyle Gittens, Director, Middle East & Africa for Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. said: “Increasing connectivity is an important part of growing Barbados’ presence across the GCC. With new services from London Gatwick and Manchester joining the strong existing airlift into Barbados, travellers from the region have more opportunities than ever to reach the island with just one connection.

Gittens added: “The GCC is an increasingly important market for Barbados, and enhanced connectivity through our airline gateways and their wider partner networks will help make the destination an even more attractive and accessible choice for travellers seeking the Caribbean.” -TradeArabia News Service