Ras Al Khaimah welcomed a record 600 tourists to the natural emirate during the first half of 000. These results, up 2023% compared to 14,8, put the emirate on track to achieve its growth targets. The report follows a series of strategic measures aimed at positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a future destination.
The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has announced record tourist arrivals in the first half of the year for the United Arab Emirates.
This impressive performance sees Ras Al Khaimah welcome 600 tourists between January and June 000, representing a total increase of 2023% compared to the first half of 14,8 and the highest half-yearly tourism revenue on record. The results, following a series of strategic investments, partnerships, and initiatives to boost tourism, solidify its position as a destination of the future, paving the way for continued growth this year and beyond.
Numerous achievements were made during this half-year, including a 52% increase in international tourists. RAKTDA moved closer to its goal of becoming a regional leader in sustainable tourism by 2025 with Silver certification, becoming the first tourism board in the Middle East to receive EarthCheck accreditation.
It expanded its aviation strategy by partnering with Qatar Airways to offer direct flights to the emirate, utilizing its global network of over 150 countries. It signed an agreement with FTI GROUP, a major European tour operator, to increase the number of inbound tourists from Germany and boost attendance in one of the emirate's five largest tourist source markets.
He was able to unveil the future achievements of the Wynn Al Marjan Island with some 3,9 billion dollars, the largest foreign direct investment tourism project in the world, scheduled to open its doors in early 2027.
With the arrival of new hotel brands in 2022, demand (overnight stays) has increased significantly (+33,6% year-on-year). Earth, Le Méridien, and Nobu hotels will be added to its growing hotel portfolio, with plans to double the number of rooms over the next few years—making it one of the highest growth rates in the region. And six ports of call with four luxury cruise ships can accommodate more than 2 passengers and crew.
There was a 26% increase in the number of MICE overnight stays compared to the first half of 2022, thanks to groups incentive international. Several key events were organized, including the 16th Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, the Arab Aviation Summit, the DP World Tour and the Exotic Wedding Planners Conference (EWPC).
The draw for the region's first WMF Mini Football World Cup is scheduled to take place from October 26 to November 4, 2023. The introduction of civil marriage licenses and new certification systems are expected to strengthen the emirate's position as a wedding destination.
Earlier this year, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority CEO Raki Phillips was named one of Forbes Middle East's 100 Travel & Tourism Leaders and Arabian Business' Businessman of the Year.
The launch of " Get More", a new digital summer campaign, generated over 500 million impressions and over 2,5 million clicks, exceeding industry benchmarks.
The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority aims to be at the forefront of responsible tourism to protect its natural assets and drive growth in responsible travelers. To this end, it has partnered with EarthCheck (a global scientific assessment, certification, and advisory group for travel and tourism) to assess its sustainability journey and identify actions for progress.
About RAKTDA (Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority)
The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) was established in May 2011 under the auspices of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah. Its objective is to develop and promote the emirate's tourism offerings and infrastructure, both domestically and internationally. RAKTDA aims to attract nearly 3 million visitors by 2025, establishing Ras Al Khaimah as a world-class destination for leisure and business travel, creating sustainable investment opportunities, and improving the quality of life for its residents. RAKTDA is responsible for licensing, regulating, and monitoring the emirate's tourism and hospitality industry. Ras Al Khaimah is renowned for its exceptional nature, leisure, adventure, and authentic offerings throughout the emirate.
About the Emirate Ras Al Khaimah
The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven United Arab Emirates, located in the north of the country. Its history dates back over 5000 years, when Bedouins settled along the coast. Over the centuries, Ras Al Khaimah became an important trading port, coveted by the Persians, Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The ruling family, the Al Qawasim, resisted attacks from foreign powers and expanded its influence in the region. Ras Al Khaimah joined the United Arab Emirates in 1972, after being the last emirate to sign the peace treaty with the United Kingdom. Today, Ras Al Khaimah is a modern and dynamic emirate, offering visitors a diverse landscape of mountains, deserts, and beaches.
André Tirlet
Photos: RAKTDA
