Tag Archives: RAKTDA

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has announced new updates to its holiday homes system, simplifying the process for homeowners and operators to acquire permits and convert their units into perfect holiday homes for travellers visiting Ras Al Khaimah. The updates are part of the Emirate’s efforts to continue diversifying and strengthening its existing accommodation portfolio of four- and five-star hotels and resorts and to driving a sustained tourism economy that benefits not only investors but also its communities. The holiday homes system is an electronic registration portal that enables owners and operators to register their residential units for short term rentals.  The system also provides owners and operators with services to book an inspection appointment for the registered units and provide a classification service based on standard or luxury criteria for the units via the portal, ensuring easy and seamless compliance with the regulations related to holiday rentals in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, commented: “We’re seeing a growing number of visitors booking longer stays in the Emirate to completely switch off and enjoy as much of the unique experiences the Emirate has to offer. We want to tap into this trend and have therefore updated our holiday homes rental system to make it even easier for homeowners and operators to register, organise permits for and convert their units. This is in line with our vision for a diversified tourism and hospitality sector, adding even more accommodation options to our portfolio, and enhancing liveability to benefit our communities and visitors who want to experience the high quality of life here and discover more of our stunning Emirate.” …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announces its highest ever annual visitor numbers, with the Emirate welcoming over 1.13M overnight arrivals in 2022, a total increase of 15.6% vs 2021. The results exceed pre-pandemic levels indicating recovery and resilience in a volatile year. Despite geopolitical and economic challenges, Ras Al Khaimah has become one of the fastest destinations to bounceback. In addition to its record visitor numbers, key 2022 achievements include: Launched Balanced Tourism – its roadmap to becoming the regional leader in sustainable tourism by 2025 Announced the largest foreign direct tourism investment project in partnership with Wynn Resorts, Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG), Mövenpick and Radisson brands entered the destination for the first time, marking a 17% annual growth in hotel supply to over 8,000 keys 5,867 keys scheduled to be added over the next few years, a 70% increase on current inventory – among the highest growth rates in the UAE 40% increase in international visitors driven by 90+ roadshows, trade fairs, workshops and media events across 24 markets Recognition in Time magazine as one of the World’s Greatest Places of 2022 and CNN Travel’s best destinations to visit in 2023 Opened new attractions, including Jais Sledder, which has seen more than 100,000 visitors since its February opening, and the longest developed hiking trails in the Emirate Achieved a visitor satisfaction score (NPS) of over 80% – far above the industry average of 51 Hosted over 50 events including the prestigious Global Citizen Forum, 15th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, Arab Aviation Summit, DP World Tour and secured the 2023 Minifootball (WMF) World Cup for the first time in …

In keeping its position as the adventure tourism hub in the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah will host the second edition of HIGHLANDER’s specially designed two-and three-day hikes on Jebel Jais to take place 18 – 20 November, offering hikers and nature enthusiasts a thrilling adventure atop UAE’s highest peak. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “Ras Al Khaimah is well known as the nature Emirate, with its combination of sea, desert and mountains. Drawing on this natural heritage, we’ve worked closely with the local community to preserve the surrounding ecosystem, resulting in some of the most developed hiking trails in the region. As leaders in global adventure, we welcome HIGHLANDER for the second year to revisit some of their favourite trails on Jebel Jais and to discover new paths of exploration.” Fadi Hachicho, Managing Director of HIGHLANDER UAE and Founder of Adventurati Outdoor, said: “Last year’s HIGHLANDER event saw Ras Al Khaimah welcome 158 adventurers from the UAE and other European countries to explore the Emirate’s unique mountain ecosystem. I am so excited to host a second edition where, together with the Authority, we will immerse the HIGHLANDER community in the natural beauty of our Emirate, reinforce the wellbeing attributes of outdoor activities and show the importance of preserving and nature for future generations.” Soaring rockscapes, rugged canyons, winding pathways and mesmerizing views of the Arabian Gulf – the Hajar Mountains are a breath-taking celebration of nature that makes hiking in Ras Al Khaimah truly unforgettable. From 18 – 20 November, hikers at home and abroad have a unique opportunity to explore the secrets of the mountains with HIGHLANDER Ras Al Khaimah 2022. …

RAKtopia, Ras Al Khaimah’s first music and wellness festival, is bringing people together across the globe with a shared passion for music, wellness and art from 22 – 23 October, 2022. Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, commented: “As we continue to keep wellness and mental wellbeing at the forefront of our tourism strategy, RAKtopia is about nurturing communities and creating soulful connections. Through this co-creative experience, we aim to foster an inclusive space for ongoing wellness, expression and self-exploration in the Emirate.” Much-loved for its back-to-nature retreat vibes, Longbeach Campground serves as the ideal location for RAKtopia. Located along a 300-meter stretch of beach, the campground combines traditional camping with luxurious amenities and engaging activities — creating an immersive “glamping” experience. Perfect for families or friends, guests can stay in a variety of unique tent options and enjoy an all-inclusive activity package including access to the beach, pool, outdoor spa, water sports, a floating theatre, and more. Taking place at the picturesque Longbeach Campground, RAKtopia will offer selfcare seekers, beach lovers and festival-goers a weekend getaway with relaxed vibes, interactive activities and captivating beats. Where Ras Al Khaimah and Utopia meet, RAKtopia is a wellness festival designed to revitalize, inspire and spark creativity and is the perfect place to connect with nature, body and mind. The exciting line-up of practitioners and performers include: Body movement awareness with RAKtopia Ambassador Allaoua Gaham – an experienced yogi, expert in anatomy and certifiedsenior instructor of Animal Flow, who will introduce a yoga-meets-breakdancing workout that helps gain more body awareness, and Systema, a form of martial arts that focuses on physical, mental and spiritual wellness. Allaoua aims to empower …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announces its highest visitor numbers since the onset of Covid-19, with the Emirate reporting visitor arrival numbers in line with pre-pandemic footfall across the first six months of 2022. The impressive H1 performance saw the Emirate welcome over 521,085 international and domestics visitors between January and June 2022, a total increase of +21% vs H1 2021 and a return to pre-pandemic figures from YTD June 2019. The Emirate’s strong performance in 2022 was bolstered by the opening of several new hotels and resorts, including Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah on Marjan Island, the InterContinental Mina Al Arab, the first InterContinental Hotels Group property in the Emirate, and most recently, the debut of Mövenpick at Al Marjan Island, located on a 300-metre stretch of golden shoreline and home to the largest floating water park in Ras Al Khaimah. The Emirate now boasts over 8,000 keys, with 4,617 new keys in the pipeline over the next few years. Celebrated for its outstanding nature, adventurous leisure, and authentic offerings, Ras Al Khaimah has quickly become one of the most sought-after sustainable destinations in the Middle East, most recently being included in Time magazine’s World’s Greatest Places of 2022. The annual list, which features 50 must-visit global destinations, highlighted Ras Al Khaimah for its adventure offerings and stunning, unique topography and geodiversity. In recognition of the Emirate’s incredible natural surroundings, the Authority has continued its development of sustainable new attractions to draw visitors both locally and internationally. A key new attraction to open was the Jais Sledder, the region’s longest toboggan ride, spanning over 1,840 exhilarating metres of hairpin curves and reaching speeds of up to 40 …

With new flight services operating from Frankfurt, Dusseldorf and Munich to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, the destination strengthens direct connectivity with a major source market. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announces a new strategic airline partnership connecting the Emirate with major cities in Germany, including Frankfurt, Dusseldorf and Munich. Starting from 1 November 2022, Corendon Airlines will operate seven direct weekly flights to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, effectively meeting strong demand from Germany. Marking the latest in a series of strategic airline partnerships forged by the Tourism Authority, the new flights cement an important tourism market, delivering a significant weekly increase in visitors to an Emirate popular for its outstanding natural and cultural attributes, global hotel brands, as well as its unrivalled adventure tourism offering and year-round sunshine. The announcement strengthens the Tourism Authority’s ongoing strategy to enhance accessibility and accelerate connectivity by working closely with leading tour operators. Within a five-hour flying time, Germany is already a top five tourism source market for Ras Al Khaimah; the launch of new direct flights to the Emirate is expected to have a significant impact on tourism in the destination. “We’ve seen first-hand the impact of direct connectivity as one of the main drivers of tourism, especially in a post-pandemic period.  We also know that tourists who arrive directly to the destination, stay longer and really take the time to discover our nature emirate,” commented Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. “He added: “As Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism vision gains momentum, working with valued trade partners and securing new airline alliances builds on this progress, and delivering additional tourism from three major German …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), in partnership with the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) – Center for Executive & Professional Education, has certified 19 successful graduates from the Tour Guide Training Program 2022, the first course post-pandemic. Amongst the new tour guides are five UAE Nationals from across Ras Al Khaimah who will use their skills to share the destination’s rich tribal history and take visitors on a unique historical and cultural journey into the Emirate’s fascinating heritage and traditions. Established for those seeking careers as Tour Guides, the program is designed to give candidates the skills and knowledge necessary to maximize professional opportunities in the tourism industry and meet industry standards. The classes are conducted by lecturers and trainers who have years of experience in the fields of cultural heritage and use global standards to impart their knowledge, resulting in world-class tourism professionals. Throughout May and June, the participants took part in practical overland training and mastered the art of effective commentary, active listening, managing difficult situations, and conducting effective small and large tours, alongside a variety of additional skills to help advance their career. During a graduation ceremony held at AURAK on 21st of June 2022, candidates who had successfully completed the course and passed both theoretical and practical exams received an official certificate and tour guide card issued by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. The newly certified tour guides are now eligible to join tourism focused organizations and companies that operate cultural experiences for visitors, including city tours, heritage site tours and wider sightseeing within the Emirate. Prof. Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim, President of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah said …

Manar Mall, Al Hamra’s flagship mall, and Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) have together launched RAK Airventure, the emirate’s first-ever hot air balloon ride. The hot air balloon accommodates two adults at a time and rises to a height of 30 metres, providing 360-degree views of Ras Al Khaimah’s break-taking landscape of beaches, deserts, mangroves, and mountains. Competitively priced at AED 75 for a ten-minute ride, many families, friends, and individuals can experience the unique, fun ride. Strategically located at Manar Mall, RAK Airventure will attract local, regional, and international visitors, boosting efforts to position Ras Al Khaimah as a leading tourist destination. It will support the emirate’s economic growth with the increasing number of visitors attracting new and popular high street shopping, leisure, and lifestyle brands to the mall. Visitors can also enjoy the many offerings of Manar Mall Promenade which will host major events and activations. From a wide range of restaurants and food trucks to spectacular views of the mangroves, the 100,000 square metre promenade is set to become the premier recreation and entertainment destination offering a complete family experience. Lee Anthony Northmore, Vice President of Manar Mall & Retail Leasing, said: “Our partnership with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has brought a new exciting hot air balloon ride to the emirate. As the first-ever hot air balloon ride in Ras Al Khaimah, it will undoubtedly attract many visitors to Manar Mall where they can also enjoy great food, retail, and entertainment experiences thereby boosting the emirate’s economic growth and position as a key tourist destination in the northern emirates.” RAK Airventure is open now and operates daily from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Tickets can …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announced the opening of RAK Airventure, a brand-new tethered hot air ballooning experience, available exclusively at Manar Mall, the Emirate’s most popular shopping and leisure centre. Opening to the public on Saturday 30th April just in time for the Eid Al Fitr holidays, the family-friendly experience offers breath-taking aerial views of Ras Al Khaimah’s diverse natural and urban scenery. Offering all the thrills of a traditional hot air balloon ride in a safe and fun environment suitable for all ages, flights last approximately 10 minutes to giving time to soak in the stunning views from above like never before. Seek out the majestic Hajar Mountains, rolling terracotta dunes, lush mangroves and the city’s busy markets, palaces and mosques – as you fly almost 30 meters above the ground. Commenting on the launch of RAK Airventure, Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “We are delighted to unveil Ras Al Khaimah’s latest attraction, another unique way for visitors to explore our diverse Emirate and soak up its beautiful sights. With nature, adventure and outdoor experiences at the very core of our destination strategy, RAK Airventure is a perfect addition to our portfolio, providing stunning 360-degree views of our unique landscapes.” The launch of RAK Airventure follows the Authority’s announcement in May 2021 of over 20 new sustainable tourism initiatives across the Emirate marking an investment of half a billion dirhams in partnership with RAK Hospitality Holding and RAK Chamber of Commerce and Industry. These projects center on the Emirate’s new destination strategy that focuses on nature, leisure, adventure, accessibility and authenticity. Operated by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), in partnership with RAK Ports, announces the appointment of Zaiton Consultancy to support the Emirate’s cruise tourism. Experts in developing and promoting cruise services, Dubai-headquartered Zaiton Consultancy will be responsible for developing and marketing Ras Al Khaimah’s burgeoning cruise sector.  The announcement comes as the global industry gathers at the Seatrade Cruise Global event in Miami until April 28, where Zaiton Consultancy is participating as Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority’s representative. One of the fastest growing sectors in tourism, cruising saw an annual passenger growth rate of 5.4% from 2009 to 2019, with services now close to pre-pandemic levels owing to immediate action and thoughtful planning. In recognition of the importance of cruise tourism, the Authority and RAK Ports have worked together on a number of projects to further develop the Emirate’s offering. This includes the transformation of its old ferry terminal into a modern and efficient boutique cruise passenger terminal and the development of marine transport infrastructure around it. The Authority has also invested in designing bespoke visitor itineraries for arrivals to attract a larger segment of leisure cruise passengers and welcome new audiences from across the world to the destination. Considered as one of the most diverse and fastest growing destinations in the region, a key part of the Authority’s strategy to attract three million visitors a year by 2030 is to ensure accessibility via all means of transport, including luxury cruise ships. These passengers will be welcomed to the Emirate via the dedicated terminal, which is able to accommodate multiple cruise ships of up to 214m in length docking simultaneously. To ensure a continuation of the service levels luxury …