Ras al khaimah: Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has announced a record-breaking year for the Emirate, with 1.35 million overnight visitors in 2025, marking a 6% increase from the previous year and a 12% growth in tourism revenues.
According to Emirates News Agency, Phillipa Harrison, the CEO of RAKTDA, highlighted the milestone year for Ras Al Khaimah, noting significant growth in various sectors including events, infrastructure, and global partnerships. Harrison emphasized the commitment to long-term tourism strategies that benefit visitors, investors, and the local community.
The year 2025 saw strong performance across key markets such as the CIS, UK, India, China, and Central and Eastern Europe, with notable increases in visitors from Romania, Poland, Uzbekistan, and Belarus due to expanded direct flight connectivity. The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and Weddings sectors experienced a 25% revenue growth, bolstered by major events and enhanced infrastructure.
Phillipa Harrison's appointment as CEO in August 2025 marked a new era for RAKTDA, leveraging her experience from Tourism Australia to drive Ras Al Khaimah's tourism growth towards a goal of 3.5 million visitors by 2030. The Emirate's hospitality sector expanded with new hotel openings from luxury brands like Janu, Four Seasons, Fairmont, Taj, and NH Collection, aligning with the goal to double hotel keys by 2030.
Significant developments included the progress on Wynn Al Marjan Island, expected to be a major resort destination by 2027, and the unveiling of Marjan Beach and RAK Central, which are set to enhance Ras Al Khaimah's appeal as a residential, commercial, and tourist hub. The Emirate hosted a dynamic calendar of events, including the RAK Half Marathon and UAE Tour, while the cultural scene was highlighted by the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival and other international conferences.
The improvements in aviation infrastructure, including new direct routes and plans for a VIP terminal, alongside a partnership with Celestyal Cruises, have opened new access channels to the Emirate. Strategic partnerships with travel networks like Virtuoso and Serandipians and leading OTAs in China and Saudi Arabia have further positioned Ras Al Khaimah as a luxury travel destination.
The launch of the BeRAK app and the RAK Tourism Excellence Awards underscored the Emirate's focus on workforce engagement and industry innovation. The year concluded with a record-setting New Year's Eve celebration, featuring a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title and a spectacular drone and fireworks display.