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Ras Al Khaimah records 1.28 million visitors and plans to attract 3.5 million tourists by 2030
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Sustainable initiatives and national training programs demonstrate the emirate's commitment to balancing tourism development, environmental preservation, and empowering local talent
Ras Al Khaimah witnessed a qualitative leap in its tourism sector during 2024, welcoming 1.28 million visitors, recording a 12% increase in tourism revenues, and a 15% increase in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector participants.
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority highlighted that this achievement represents an extension of its successful journey and embodies the effectiveness of its sustainable development plan, which aims to attract more than 3.5 million tourists and visitors annually by 2030.
Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, stated: "2024 was an exceptional year for Ras Al Khaimah's tourism sector, highlighting our commitment to sustainability, enhancing connectivity, and delivering unique experiences that meet all visitors' aspirations. Our strategy is not limited to attracting more visitors but also aims to establish Ras Al Khaimah's leading position as a global destination for the future. We look forward to continuing our successes in 2025 thanks to our massive investments, international events, and innovative developments we are implementing."
Phillips explained that multiple elements contributed to this outstanding performance, including the launch of new hotels and resorts, expansion of the international events program, enhancement of global air connectivity through Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, launch of innovative marketing campaigns, and implementation of over 2,200 promotional activities in 70 cities worldwide.
Ras Al Khaimah crowned its successes by receiving the "Most Sustainable Project in the Middle East" classification during the Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit 2024, along with obtaining the silver certification from "Earth Check" as the first destination in the region.
The emirate strengthened its presence in global markets by launching direct flights from major cities in Poland, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Romania, Czech Republic, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and India, contributing to strengthening the connectivity network with Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.
The emirate's hospitality portfolio expanded with the opening of luxury hotel facilities, most notably Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort and Anantara Mina Al Arab Resort, which features the emirate's first overwater villas.
Eighteen Emirati youth graduated from the first "Emirati Hospitality Program," reflecting the emirate's commitment to empowering national talent and preparing them to lead the future of the tourism sector.
Ras Al Khaimah continues its development journey as an integrated tourist destination, achieving tenth place in the list of world's best cities for expatriates, first place in the "Stability Abroad" index, and second place in the "Working Abroad" index.
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