Ras Al Khaimah sets new half-year tourism record with over 654,000 visitors
New hotel projects and flight routes boost tourism prospects across the Emirate
DUBAI: Tourism in Ras Al Khaimah continues to gain momentum, with the first half of 2025 marking a record-breaking performance.
The Emirate welcomed over 654,000 visitors during the six-month period – the highest ever for H1 – reflecting a 6% year-on-year increase. Tourism revenues rose by 9%, while the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) and weddings sector surged by 36%.
According to the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), these results reflect the success of a focused strategy to broaden appeal, enhance connectivity and strengthen its presence across key international and regional markets.
“This half-year performance is a clear testament to the strength of Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism offering and the impact of our targeted strategy,” said Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA. “From high-profile hotel developments and expanded air connectivity to strategic partnerships and growing events, every milestone supports our long-term vision to welcome over 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030.”
What’s driving growth in RAK Tourism?
Ras Al Khaimah’s growth is supported by strong numbers across multiple source markets. The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), UK, India, China, and Central and Eastern Europe continued to deliver robust volumes. Visitors from India grew by 25%, followed by China (+9.2%), UK (+5%), and Russia (+7%) — each achieving their highest ever arrivals in a six-month period.
Particularly noteworthy was the performance from countries with improved direct connectivity to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. Romania led the way with a 65% increase in visitors, followed by Poland (+56%), Uzbekistan (+47%), and Belarus (+30%). These trends were driven by new and expanded routes from key cities including Bucharest, Katowice, Warsaw, Tashkent, Moscow, and Prague.
MICE and weddings revenues also saw exceptional growth, up 36%, powered by high-value destination weddings, corporate incentives, and major conferences. Ras Al Khaimah’s positioning as a regional hub for large-scale events continues to attract international attention and spending.
How is connectivity evolving?
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport played a central role in this upward trajectory. The first half of 2025 witnessed the launch of direct routes from key European and Asian cities, reinforcing the airport’s strategic importance. Ongoing expansions aim to upgrade its capacity, welcome larger aircraft and enhance the arrival experience for international tourists.
At the same time, the Emirate’s hospitality sector witnessed a series of high-profile developments. Hotel announcements included the NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments (156 keys), Fairmont Al Marjan Island (250 keys), Taj Wellington Mews Al Marjan Island (336 hotel apartments), and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Ras Al Khaimah at Mina Al Arab (150 keys).
Rove Al Marjan Island also opened during the period, bringing the popular homegrown brand’s accessible charm to the beachfront.
These additions support Ras Al Khaimah’s goal to more than double its hotel key count by 2030, a target that places the Emirate among the fastest-growing hospitality destinations in the region.
Where are strategic partnerships leading?
Strategic collaborations in H1 2025 further strengthened Ras Al Khaimah’s destination development. A notable cross-Emirate partnership with Fujairah Adventures was formalised at the International Conference on Adventure Tourism, designed to offer integrated itineraries across the UAE for thrill-seekers.
RAKTDA also signed key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading Chinese online travel agencies (OTAs) including Trip.com and Tongcheng to enhance visitor flows from China. Four Saudi OTAs – Fursan Travel, Smart Holidays, Almatar and Wego – joined as partners to tap into growing demand from the GCC.
In the digital space, RAKTDA partnered with Huawei to drive smart tourism initiatives. Another notable agreement with Web3 technology provider Open World is exploring blockchain-powered tourism rewards to enhance engagement and retention.
What events boosted tourism?
The Emirate’s growing calendar of world-class events continued to fuel tourism growth. The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon returned for its 18th edition with a record turnout of over 10,000 participants and spectators.
The UAE Tour’s iconic Jebel Jais mountain stage made its seventh appearance, and the Ras Al Khaimah Championship – part of the DP World Tour – held its fourth edition at Al Hamra Golf Club, attracting global viewers.
Adventurous experiences also took centre stage, with the HIGHLANDER hiking event returning for its fourth season.
New to the 2025 line-up was the Jais Ride, a 25km cycling challenge launched in April, which pushed cyclists to conquer the steep slopes of the UAE’s highest peak.
These large-scale events not only boost occupancy and revenues but also reinforce Ras Al Khaimah’s growing reputation as a dynamic tourism destination blending nature, adventure, and luxury.