Ras Al Khaimah rebrand focuses on ultra-luxury tourism. The emirate moves to attract wealthy travelers with top resorts and unique stays. This shift builds on strong 2025 results to grow faster. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority reports 1.35 million overnight visitors last year. This marks a 6% rise from 2024, with tourism revenues up 12%. The first half of 2025 alone saw 654,000 arrivals, a 6% increase, and 9% revenue growth.
Key markets drove gains. India sent 14% more visitors, China 19%, the UK 10%, and Russia 20%. New direct flights boosted Romania by 41%, Poland 22%, Uzbekistan 19%, and Belarus 26%. MICE and weddings revenue jumped 25%.
Leadership Sets Direction
CEO Phillipa Harrison joined in August 2025. She leads the Ras Al Khaimah rebrand with clear goals. Her team targets 3.5 million visitors by 2030, doubling hotel rooms.
Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of Destination Tourism Development, supports the plan. The Destination 2030 masterplan zones areas for luxury brands. It stresses sustainability and steady growth.
Major Projects Advance
Wynn Al Marjan Island opens in spring 2026. It adds the area’s first licensed gaming plus high-end hotels. Nobu, Four Seasons, Fairmont, Taj, Janu, and NH Collection will join soon. Marjan Beach spans 85 million square feet. It plans 12,000 hotel keys and 22,000 homes, with 30% green space. RAK Central builds urban areas linked to tourism. Wynn creates over 9,000 jobs.
Signature events drew crowds in 2025. The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon set records with 10,000 participants. UAE Tour, RAK Art Festival, and HIGHLANDER hike added pull. Exotic Wedding Planning Conference grew business travel.
Off-plan real estate sales hit records, tied to luxury demand. Investors eye big returns from new projects. The emirate keeps its 68 km beaches and mountains intact. Ras Al Khaimah skips mass crowds. It offers curated nature escapes and premium service. Global ties and flights fuel the next wave.
