RAK Properties announced a strategic deal with Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) to arrange an AED 2 Billion financing facility. The syndicated long term financing facility will support RAK Properties’ ambitious growth trajectory, as well as boost the development of green buildings in the region which includes several luxury hotels and residential communities within Mina Al Arab, while also providing essential long-term liquidity to ensure the company’s sustainable growth. This agreement also demonstrates CBD’s belief in RAK Properties’ long-term vision and strong market position, setting the stage for continued success in Ras Al Khaimah’s dynamic real estate sector. Sameh Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties, said: “Our agreement with Commercial Bank of Dubai is a pivotal milestone in RAK Properties’ strategic growth journey to transform Ras Al Khaimah into a premier destination for luxury living and investment. The facility will provide us with the financial resources needed to drive our expansion plans, allowing us to deliver value to our stakeholders and drive the emirate’s economic development. Our well-established relationship with CBD continues to be a key enabler in realising our vision for Mina Al Arab as we move forward with our developments.” Rahul Jogani, CFO of RAK Properties, added: “This facility provides us with long term access to financing as we need it, allowing us to respond rapidly to project demands and growth opportunities without overextending our resources. It offers the kind of financial agility that is essential in managing large-scale developments like Mina Al Arab, ensuring we maintain a sustainable growth path.” Dr Bernd van Linder, CEO of Commercial Bank of Dubai, stated “We are proud to be the bank that backs the nation’s ambitions and supports RAK Properties in …
Read More »RAK Properties and Minor Hotels expand partnership announcing Anantara Branded Residences in Mina Al Arab Agreement signed at the Future Hospitality Summit
RAK Properties has expanded its partnership with Minor Hotels to introduce the upcoming Anantara Branded Residences on Mina al Arab in Ras Al Khaimah. The signing ceremony took place during the Future Hospitality Summit, marking another significant milestone in RAK Properties’ vision to position Mina Al Arab as a leading global destination for luxury island living within a vibrant community hub. This expanded collaboration, part of RAK Properties’ broader strategy of integrating renowned international hospitality brands, reinforces Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal to investors and residents seeking high-end living. By integrating world-class brands like Anantara, RAK Properties demonstrates its commitment to sustainable developments that enhance the emirate’s allure for luxury living and tourism. This represents a milestone in the expansion of the company’s premium real estate portfolio and supports Ras Al Khaimah’s vision for luxury waterfront living. The Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Residences promise an unparalleled lifestyle, where the tranquillity of traditional Thai design will meet the tropical allure of Ras Al Khaimah. Residents will enjoy the epitome of luxury living, complete with world-class amenities, private infinity pools, expansive terraces, and direct access to the pristine shoreline — all within the comfort and privacy of their own sea-view apartment or overwater villa. The development will include around 94 residential apartments and 20 overwater villas. JT&P has been appointed as the lead designer, ensuring the project’s architectural excellence and seamless integration into the natural surroundings. Sameh Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties, said: “Our continued partnership with Minor Hotels is a key milestone in expanding our luxury portfolio. The Anantara brand aligns perfectly with our vision of delivering world-class, sustainable developments that highlight the natural beauty of Ras Al Khaimah. …
Read More »Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island unveils unbeatable summer wedding packages
Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah announced the launch of two exclusive summer wedding packages, offering the lowest rates available for any wedding celebration from 1st June to 30th September 2024. These packages are designed to make your dream wedding a reality, with unparalleled amenities and stunning settings that will create unforgettable memories. Summer Weddings at Ula Experience the epitome of summer romance with our all-inclusive Ula Summer Wedding Package. Indulge in exquisite canapés, a sumptuous dinner buffet, and a picturesque photoshoot at Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, all topped off with a complimentary night’s stay in a luxurious chalet. Make your dream wedding a reality in the heart of summer bliss. Package Includes: AED 250 per person (includes 1 hour of canapés and dinner buffet with soft beverages) Wedding cake Minimum 100 guests guaranteed Event setup from 3 PM onwards Unique location photoshoot at Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island 1-night complimentary stay in a Chalet with a pool Food tasting for 4 people with items from the menu 2 complimentary meeting rooms for bridal makeup Earn double points on ALL meeting planner bookings Offer Valid: 1st June to 31st September 2024 Book now and celebrate your love with a perfect summer wedding at Ula! Summer Weddings at Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island Elevate your love story with our Summer Ballroom Special Wedding Packages at Movenpick Al Marjan Island: Where Every Moment Sparkles in the Glow of Summer Romance. Package includes: Family style menu from AED 220 per person Venue: Ballroom 1-night stay in a Family Room with BB meal plan Food tasting for 4 people with items from the menu 2 complimentary meeting rooms for bridal …
Read More »Safarak travel experienced 76% surge in MICE inquiries
Safarak Travel and Tourism, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has recorded remarkable growth in its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) division, contributing significantly to the emirate’s economic development. Safarak has experienced a 76% increase in MICE enquiries year-on-year, with a conversion rate of 28% in the first quarter of 2024, surpassing the industry average of 20%. This surge in activity has resulted in AED 25.5 million being injected into the emirate’s economy, aligning Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) vision to establish the emirate as a premier MICE destination. Ras Al Khaimah has established itself as an easily accessible destination in the Middle East, serving as an ideal hub between Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. In addition, new direct flights from Qatar Airways and IndiGo have been pivotal in increased international air connectivity, making Ras Al Khaimah even more accessible, further adding to the emirate’s MICE appeal. Its draw as a MICE destination is enhanced by unique venues and stunning natural landscapes, from the UAE’s highest mountain range to its vast desert and 5-star beachside hotels on the Persian Gulf. Safarak has been continuously exploring new venues to expand its portfolio, guaranteeing a robust and diverse selection for event planners. Recent additions include the highest boardroom in the UAE, Jais Sky Room, offering breathtaking views of the Hajjar mountain range, and the historic Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, providing an authentic local cultural setting for events. The Ras Al Khaimah Cultural Centre continues offers a space for large groups, whilst the Design Gallery has increased in popularity for intimate bookings. The first quarter of 2024 has seen Safarak handling a diverse range of events across various …
Read More »Al Hamra to welcome skywalker yachts to Ras al khaimah
The Royal Yacht Club of Ras Al Khaimah and Al Hamra has partnered with Dubai’s Sky Walker Yachts to offer the first charter experience of its kind in Ras Al Khaimah from mid-October. Sky Walker Yachts will enhance the maritime and tourist experience within Ras Al Khaimah with two vessels – one that accommodates large groups and corporate bookings, and the other, is more suited to smaller, intimate occasions. The experienced team at Sky Walker Yachts is ready to cater to a variety of desires, with multiple add-on options and packages. From those who are looking for some rest and relaxation alongside incredible dining experiences – to those who want a little more action with snorkelling gear and inflatables – the Sky Walker Yachts team is ready to assist. “We are all very excited to expand our services into Ras Al Khaimah. As a destination, it is becoming increasingly attractive for inbound tourists and residents alike through its development plans. As a yachting destination, it is simply perfect, with its crystal-clear waters, sheltered anchorages, and stunning landscapes,” said Simon Wickham, Managing Director of Sky Walker Yachts. “Our yachting experiences are designed to provide guests with the ultimate blend of comfort, excitement, and relaxation. Whether they are seeking a serene escape or an action-packed aquatic adventure, we have it all. Our vessels are modern with spacious designs and come in various sizes to accommodate small to large groups. Our crew are highly trained in hospitality offering guests a five-star experience complimented by delicious cuisine and water sport options if guests wish to add to the fun.” Simon concluded. “With the rapid growth and expansion of Al Hamra Village and Ras Al …
Read More »RAK Properties partners with Nikki Beach Global to open first branded resort in Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah
RAK Properties announced its partnership with Nikki Beach Global luxury lifestyle resort, branded residences and beach club operator, to develop Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Ras Al Khaimah, a new branded resort at Mina Al Arab in Ras al Khaimah. The resort, developed in partnership with RAK Properties, will bring Nikki Beach’s Celebration of Life atmosphere to Mina Al Arab, a luxury lifestyle destination that offers the tranquillity of island life with beach access and panoramic views of the Gulf. Guests will have a vast array of rooms and villas to choose from in the 155-hotel key resort, as well as access to the brand’s signature Nikki Spa, Tone Gym, and restaurant concepts. While Nikki Beach is renowned for its lively luxury beach club and resorts destinations around the world, the brand has recently announced several new resorts worldwide where visitors can experience a more relaxed barefoot luxury environment. Further details of the hotel development and opening date will be announced in due course. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Ras Al Khaimah will be designed by Gensler, a unique global architecture, design, and planning firm that creates authentic and memorable experiences by integrating community, health, and lifestyle into their creations. Gensler, as industry leaders in driving sustainable change and net-zero buildings, align with RAK Properties’ own vision to integrate the resort with the beautiful natural environment of Mina Al Arab, while ensuring the new concept fits seamlessly into the Nikki Beach worldwide portfolio of barefoot luxury properties. Gensler will follow the Barjeel guidelines set by the RAK Municipality, integrating local products and natural materials in all aspects of the building and its interiors, connecting with local artists to highlight the …
Read More »Al Marjan Island to feature Marriott International’s second hospitality offering on its shores with W Hotel
Marjan in Ras Al Khaimah announced the launch of a W Hotel on Al Marjan Island on the back of a collaboration between Marriott International, Inc., and Dalands Holding. Slated for a grand opening early 2027, W Al Marjan Island is poised to achieve a dual distinction, not only as Marriott International’s second hospitality venture on the island, but also as W Hotel’s first property in Ras Al Khaimah, bringing the brand’s bold design, outstanding service and always-on programming to the northern emirate. Destined to be located on Marjan’s flagship archipelago island, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Arabian Peninsula, and enclosed by the Yanas and Jais Mountains, W Al Marjan Island will further elevate the appeal of this thriving leisure destination to globetrotters. Featuring an inventory of 300 hotel rooms and suites with sweeping sea views, this magnificent property is also anticipated to include signature spaces such as the Living Room, WET deck, W Lounge, AWAY Spa, and FIT fitness centre along with three restaurants and retail spaces. While Ras Al Khaimah is fast emerging as the tourism hub in the region, the forthcoming inauguration of the first W Hotel represents a remarkable stride towards cementing its stance as a global investment and hospitality destination of choice. This impending addition signifies more than just a new luxury establishment; it’s a testament to the northern emirate’s unwavering dedication to curating exceptional experiences for the tourist community. Abdulla Al Abdouli, Chief Executive Officer, Marjan, said: “As Ras Al Khaimah rightfully solidifies its position on the global tourism landscape, we take pride in our significant contribution to enhancing its credibility and attractiveness among international investors. This commitment has led to a …
Read More »RAKTDA boosts its hospitality offering adding new properties over the next 3 years
Ras Al Khaimah announced the addition of new hotels to its portfolio with Nobu Al Marjan Island (300 keys) in 2026, Westin Resort (257 keys) in 2024, Le Méridien Al Marjan Island Resort (350 keys) and Earth Shore Al Marjan Island (265 keys) in 2025. With Anantara Mina Al Arab (174 keys) and Sofitel Al Hamra (300 keys) set to open this year plus several other global names in the near future, the Emirate plans to double the number of keys over the coming years. This includes the largest-of-its-kind foreign direct investment, the USD $3.9 billion Wynn Al Marjan Island, which is set to transform and accelerate the Emirate’s rise as a major global tourist destination. The integrated resort’s design vision was unveiled earlier this year and will include 1,500+ rooms, suites and villas, shopping, gaming area, a state-of-the-art events center, wellness and spa facilities, 24 dining and lounge experiences and extensive entertainment choices.
Read More »Royal Yacht Club of Ras Al Khaimah deploys four new anchorage buoys to enhance boaters’ experience in the Northern Emirates
Al Hamra recently rebranded the Royal Yacht Club of Ras Al Khaimah in line with its vision of bolstering Ras Al Khaimah’s exclusive tourism and leisure offerings for both tourists and residents.Al Hamra announced the deployment of four new buoys at strategic anchorage locations around Al Hamra and Al Marjan Island, to further elevate the marine and yachting experience for boat owners in the UAE. The new buoys installed around Al Hamra and Al Marjan Island offer an easy-to-use and accessible anchorage location in one of the most sought-after marine destinations in the UAE. With a short journey to the Royal Yacht Club of Ras Al Khaimah, boat owners can enjoy benefits from the full service marina, including F&B, leisure offerings and maritime services. As part of Ras Al Khaimah’s strategy for strengthening maritime activity, the anchorages will be free to use throughout the year for vessels up to 30 meters in length and up to 150GT. With an unspoiled coastline spanning 64 kilometres, the calm, turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf will enable boat owners and holidaymakers to connect with the Emirate’s rich maritime heritage while benefiting from ease of access to the high-end, unrivalled offerings at the Royal Yacht Club’s state-of-the-art marina. These include access to outstanding leisure, food, and beverage facilities in the area’s leading hotels and leisure destinations. Christopher Hewett, Senior Vice President of Hospitality at Al Hamra, said: “In support of Ras Al Khaimah’s strategy to increase tourism and leisure activities in the Emirate, we are pleased to launch these new anchorages in Al Hamra and Al Marjan Island. The free to use anchorages for recreational boaters are strategically located to ensure safe mooring as …
Read More »Ras Al Khaimah becomes the first emirate to launch the only hot air balloon flights in the Northern Emirates
The first to operate balloon flights in the northern Emirates, ActionFlight, the only permanently based aerobatics operator in the UAE, has launched a brand-new hot air balloon experience in Ras Al Khaimah. The flight will take visitors soaring over the rolling terracotta dunes for awe-inspiring sunrise views of the Emirate’s breath-taking natural landscapes. Operating seven days a week during the ballooning season, the picturesque experience sets afloat in the Al Wadi desert, where guests will board the 450,000 cubic feet balloon standing at a colossal 34.6m. Taking flight just before sunrise, the journey lasts approximately 60-minutes where visitors can marvel at the illuminated desert dunes, majestic Hajar mountains and glistening coastline and if they’re lucky, spot special appearances from the indigenous wildlife. Commenting on the launch of ActionFlight, Wayne Jack, Chief Operations Officer said: “We are excited to launch a brand-new offering in Ras Al Khaimah, taking residents and visitors to new heights for the very first time. Known as the nature-based Emirate and adventure hub of the region, the destination is the perfect location for hot air balloon flights. Passengers will have a truly unforgettable experience with a bird’s eye view of Ras Al Khaimah’s stunning landscapes and majestic wildlife.” The full package includes complimentary transportation from anywhere within Ras Al Khaimah and transfer options from other Emirates with an additional fee. The family-friendly flight has the capacity to carry up to 20 passengers and for those looking for a more intimate experience, private compartment and flight bookings are available on request. Following the breath-taking flight, visitors will be transported to the Majlis for a delicious Bubbly Breakfast as is customary. As the story states, dating back to when …
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