Tag Archives: Raki Phillips

RAKTDA announces a strategic partnership with national carrier Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) that will activate direct commercial flights from Ukraine to the Emirate from 25 June 2021. The move will see Ras Al Khaimah welcome twice weekly flights from capital city Kyiv to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, opening up the Emirate to another key international market – the largest all-European country – as travel restrictions continue to ease. With flight frequency set to increase in the near future, UIA will be the first airline from Ukraine to fly into Ras Al Khaimah and the latest in a series of strategic aviation partnerships established by RAKTDA to drive growth into a dynamic and developing destination. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, commented, “Ukraine has emerged as a growing market for Ras Al Khaimah, with our partnership with Ukraine International Airlines demonstrating our resolve to restart tourism by re-energising our aviation collaborations.  Our relationship with UIA is a particularly special one as it is not only the second commercial airline to fly into our Emirate but it also marks the first airline from Ukraine and its national carrier. It marks a key step in the recovery of international tourism and aligns with our wider strategy to investigate new routes across core, secondary and emerging markets and to diversify our portfolio with both charter and commercial flights.” “We invite our Ukrainian visitors to experience the authentic Arabian hospitality of our Emirate, in addition to the wealth of unique attractions – from beach and adventure to culture, retail to nature – that offer the ideal international getaway appealing in one way or another to each and every …

Ras Al Khaimah continues to make waves amongst the adventure and outdoor communities globally, with the Emirate set to host the first-ever ‘Highlander’ hiking experience in the GCC this November. Highlander, the only certified international hiking association in the world, is widely renowned for its one-of-a-kind curated hiking experiences. Currently there are 20 thrilling, life-enhancing adventures taking place annually in 15 countries worldwide. Ras Al Khaimah will join the ranks of iconic locations such as Austria, Bosnia, Croatia, Egypt, Greece, Russia and Portugal, all of which have played host to Highlander hikes viewed as the most significant events to take place within the global hiking community. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “Ras Al Khaimah is a firm favourite amongst the hiking community in the UAE and within that spirit, our partnership with internationally-recognized HIGHLANDER will only elevate our stunning mountain terrain to a global audience. This launch marks the latest in a series of new, sustainable and nature-focused experiences as we look for ways in which to immerse our guests in the natural beauty of our Emirate and protect its diverse surroundings for generations to enjoy for years to come. We cannot wait for everyone to enjoy this new adventure on Jebel Jais.” Fadi Hachicho, Managing Director of HIGHLANDER UAE and Founder of Adventurati Outdoor, added: “Bringing the HIGHLANDER experience to Ras Al Khaimah is something we are immensely proud of as the rugged mountain terrain and the Emirates commitment to sustainable tourism aligns so well with the HIGHLANDER ethos. We are building the HIGHLANDER community internationally to embody the philosophy of “Take only pictures and leave only footprints” and see the …

The 2021 Arab Aviation Summit (AAS) started at Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Centre in Ras Al Khaimah.  The eighth edition of the two-day summit brings together experts to discuss the impact of the pandemic on the industry, the aftermath, and the road to recovery for a stronger future, under the theme, ‘Arab Aviation in the New Normal.’ The summit will feature a number of workshops to discuss the various aspects of the region’s aviation and tourism sector. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said: “We look forward to this edition of the Arab Aviation Summit, which serves as an ideal platform to discuss the status of Arab Aviation and the role the industry will play in the broader economic recovery. Through open sessions and constructive dialogues that brings both public and private sectors together, we are confident the outcome will help unify efforts in supporting a vital and resilient industry.” Raki Phillips, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said, “We value the immense contributions made by the aviation industry to highlight destinations such as Ras Al Khaimah and look forward to working closely to ensure all guests are extended a warm welcome, reflecting the authentic Arabian ethos of our Emirate. As the first city to be certified as safe by both Bureau Veritas and the World Travel and Tourism Council, participants at the Summit can rest assured that their health and wellbeing remains our utmost priority, as they focus on the discussions to identify strategies and set a strong roadmap for navigating the new normal.”

At ITB Berlin industry experts shared their insights of travel recovery over a period of time. “As Israel vaccinates its population, the tourism and hospitality sectors are reopening, allowing us to plan for the return of tourists soon,” said Israel Minister of Tourism Orit Farkash-Hacohen. Noting that Israel has already vaccinated some 80 percent of its adult population, the destination is turning it into not only an attractive destination but a healthy destination. Minister Farkash-Hacohen summarized how the pandemic has affected Israeli tourism since March 2020. He said, “None of this of course is full compensation, but it helped during this difficult year, “she said.  “Now we are hopeful tourists can soon return, allowing the various tourism-oriented businesses to get back on their feet.” Speaking about the impact of vaccinations on travel, the Israeli Minister shared how positive they have been domestic “with five million people already vaccinated” from Israel’s nine-million strong population. She also stressed the need to find protocols allowing international carriers and visitors to fly to and from Israel: “This is my greatest challenge at the moment, and I am working with the health and transportation ministers to gradually open Israel’s skies and allow more tourists in.”  Referencing the date things will open, the Minister said, “It will take some time, possibly a month” or so, adding she was optimistic. “We need to find ways to open up travel,” Raki Phillips, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority said, explaining why vaccinations were key to the reopening of the international tourism industry. “Also, from a safety and security perspective. Travel has to be enjoyable.” At the same time, Minister Sancho of Costa Rica said vaccinations are important, …

As the milder temperatures continue to set the perfect conditions to explore the great outdoors, the team at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) is sharing useful tips and information to inspire nature enthusiasts to explore the Emirate’s spectacular trails. Running throughout March, the tourism team will release a series of expert-led videos on its social media channels advising hikers (and avid walkers) how best to prepare for an excursion as well as offering interesting insights into the various routes and tips on safety. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said, “The diverse terrain of Ras Al Khaimah offers hikers an extensive choice of outdoor experiences that appeal to first-time adventurers as well as experienced hikers. With this program,  we wanted to shine a light on the spectacular natural wonders of Ras Al Khaimah, as well as providing all hikers with guidance and support to enjoy memorable and safe nature-based experiences.”

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) reveals its latest campaign – RAK Sessions, a creative collaboration that harnesses the power of music to support developing talent during these unprecedented times, set against the backdrop of a stunningly diverse destination. Showcasing the Emirate from a new perspective, RAKTDA has collaborated with ten talented emerging artists in the UAE, lending its scenic natural beauty and renowned landmarks to their latest music videos. The campaign features diverse landscapes and attractions using the world’s most enduring artform – music, to invite listeners, fans and followers alike to discover Ras Al Khaimah. Locations include  the UAE’s highest peak Jebel Jais and its iconic Jais Adventure Peak – marking the first song worldwide shot entirely on a zipline, and most notably the longest zipline in the world – historic landmarks such as Jazirah Al Hamra, Dhaya Fort and Suwaidi Pearls Farm, Wadi Al Baih –   and iconic hotels such as the Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort, to transport them to the Emirate and inspire their next visit. Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, commented, “Art and culture are fundamental to our long-term destination strategy, and through this campaign we are not only actively contributing to the creative development of Ras Al Khaimah but also providing young musicians and artists with a unique platform to reach wider audiences while showcasing the breadth of offering in the Emirate. The world is changing rapidly, giving us the opportunity to reinvent ourselves and the way in which we promote tourism destinations.” Layla Kardan shared, “The opportunity for up and coming artists in the region to partner with an entity such as the Ras Al …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announces a strategic partnership with SCAT Airlines that will see the Emirate welcome commercial flights from eight cities in Kazakhstan starting from March 2021. The move strengthens Ras Al Khaimah’s recovery strategy, following its initial focus on domestic tourism before opening up to international markets as travel corridors are established. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, commented, “Our partnership with SCAT Airlines is a key milestone in Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism strategy, especially as we co-create a viable tourism vision for ‘new normal’ and post pandemic travel. Visitors from Kazakhstan have enjoyed the genuine hospitality of Ras Al Khaimah for many years and we are thrilled to continue welcoming our valued guests in ways that are meaningful to their travel experience – direct commercial flights from a number of cities in Kazakhstan to our Emirate.” He added, “Aligned with this approach is our commitment to ensure the safety and security of all our guests as they enjoy the warmer weather and take full advantage of Ras Al Khaimah’s many great outdoor attractions from beaches to mountains; culture to adventure and much more.” Vladimir Sytnik, Vice President, SCAT Airlines, commented: SCAT Airlines is excited to commence direct flights once a week to Ras Al Khaimah on 5 March from eight cities of Kazakhstan, including Nur-Sultan, Almaty, Aktobe, Aktau, Atyrau, Uralsk, Karaganda and Shymkent on our Boeing 737-700 NG aircraft.  Our mutual collaboration with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority provides citizens of Kazakhstan with a service that satisfies not only the needs of residents of larger cities but also makes it possible to travel to Ras Al Khaimah …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announced its collaboration with the Frontline Heroes Office to offer curated dedicated packages and benefits for frontline professionals as a sign of recognition for the key role they play in protecting the nation.As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, RAKTDA took quick action and launched several support initiatives aimed at its hospitality, leisure and development partners to lay the strong foundations for the sectors’ recovery. The Authority has now made strong strides towards achieving its recovery goals and aims to pay it forward to the nation’s heroes, who made these achievements possible by putting themselves on the frontline in service to the country and ensuring the population’s wellbeing and safety. “We would like to take this opportunity to honour their commitment to this responsibility and show our gratitude through a series of dedicated offers and benefits that they can avail when they visit Ras Al Khaimah,” said Raki Phillips, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. He goes on to add, “It is with great pleasure that we welcome the nation’s heroes for a well-deserved break to enjoy the Emirate’s diverse entertainment and hospitality offering.” Her Excellency Professor Maha Barakat, Director General of the Frontline Heroes Office commented, “The Frontline Heroes Office strives to acknowledge the dedicated efforts of the country’s heroes, working with partners on exclusive offerings to express the nation’s gratitude. With the help of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and its array of partners we are able to continue to reward and recognise the heroic efforts of the country’s frontline professionals and their immeasurable actions to protect the UAE and its community.”

Ras Al Khaimah was named the Gulf Tourism Capital for 2021 at the fifth annual meeting of Tourism Ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council. During a virtual meeting to discuss Gulf integration in the tourism sector, Ras Al Khaimah was commended for its identity as a sustainable tourist destination and was awarded the coveted title for the second year running. Ras Al Khaimah is considered one of the most diverse Emirates offering world-class experiences and attractions, which has enabled it to assert its position on the Global tourism map as the fastest growing destination in the region. Moreover, the Gulf Tourism Capital award this year is a testament to its early and sustained action to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in global recognition as a safe destination for inbound tourism. It was the first city and Emirate in the world to receive both the prestigious ‘Safeguard Assurance’ Label from Bureau Veritas, a leader in testing and inspection services and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels Stamp. The Authority continues to build on its ‘safe destination’ status, offering complimentary COVID-19 PCR testing for international visitors staying in Ras Al Khaimah until the end of this year. Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority said, “We are delighted that the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has once again been recognised as the Gulf Tourism Capital by the esteemed tourism Ministers and senior officials of the Gulf Cooperation Council. It is an especially welcome announcement in an unprecedented and immensely challenging year and is testament both to the resilience of our industry and our ongoing focus on innovation to bring visitors back.” “In line …

RAK Leisure (RAKL) announced that the world’s first Bear Grylls Explorers Camp (BGEC) will open close to the Via Ferrata on Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah this October. As travellers across the globe navigate through the ‘new normal’, the opening of BGEC aligns seamlessly with travel experiences set in expansive, open and natural environments and that are curated for smaller groups with safety protocols and social distancing measures fully in place. Following the huge success of Bear Grylls Survival Academy in the United Kingdom, his globally renowned survival courses will debut in the Middle East in addition to the world’s first Bear Grylls branded camp accommodation opening in 2021 and featuring 20 recycled and redesigned containers, lending to the overall mountain experience. “Within a larger global context, the launch of BGEC represents both innovation and resilience during what has been a very challenging year for the travel and tourism industry,” said Alison Grinnell, CEO of RAK Hospitality Holding. “Under the expert guidance of our RAK Leisure division, BGEC will further enhance the growing adventure offer on Jebel Jais and raise the profile of Ras Al Khaimah on the world stage.” Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development (RAKTDA) added, “As a tourism destination, Ras Al Khaimah has demonstrated time and time again, a robust identity aligning with current travel sentiment for remote and curated experiences, which is exactly what BGEC offers travellers in a new era of travel. In 2018, we launched the world’s longest zipline on Jebel Jais and are delighted to announce another first with the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp on the UAE’s highest mountain.” Paul Gardiner, Managing Director of Bear Grylls Survival Academy concluded, …