UAE
Ras Al Khaimah Sets New Tourism Record in H1 2025 with Soaring Visitor Arrivals and Revenue Growth: Ras Al Khaimah has marked its busiest half-year ever, with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) reporting over 654,000 visitor arrivals in the first half of 2025. This represents a 6 per cent year-on-year increase—a clear sign that the emirate’s strategic investments in tourism are yielding impressive results.
Moreover, tourism revenues surged by 9 per cent, underscoring the emirate’s rising profile as one of the UAE’s fastest-growing destinations.
Strategic Growth Drives Success
RAKTDA’s continued focus on expanding air connectivity, enhancing visitor experiences, and targeting high-potential source markets significantly contributed to this success. India led the charge, with a 25 per cent increase in visitor arrivals, followed by notable growth from China (+9.2%), the UK (+5%), and Russia (+7%)—each posting their highest-ever first-half numbers.
Emerging markets with new direct flights, including Romania (+65%), Poland (+56%), Uzbekistan (+47%), and Belarus (+30%), also drove robust performance.
Expanding Hotel Infrastructure
The emirate’s hotel sector saw major developments. New luxury brands including Four Seasons, Fairmont, Taj, and NH Collection have announced plans to enter the market. These additions support RAKTDA’s vision to more than double the number of hotel keys by 2030, catering to the growing influx of international guests.
The recent opening of Rove Al Marjan Island further solidifies the emirate’s appeal to mid-market travelers seeking affordable luxury.
Events and MICE Boost Economic Impact
Notably, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) and wedding tourism revenues jumped by 36 per cent, demonstrating Ras Al Khaimah’s rising appeal as a premier event destination. A vibrant calendar of signature events, such as the RAK Half Marathon, UAE Tour, HIGHLANDER adventure series, and the newly introduced Jais Ride cycling challenge, has helped draw in a diverse audience.
Building on Strategic Partnerships
RAKTDA has also entered into transformative partnerships with entities like Fujairah Adventures, Huawei, Open World, and several top online travel agencies (OTAs) across China and Saudi Arabia, further boosting global visibility and accessibility.
Strengthened Air Connectivity
Crucially, Ras Al Khaimah International Airport expanded its direct flight routes, connecting to high-potential source markets and simplifying access for travelers from across Europe and Asia.
With this strong momentum, Ras Al Khaimah is well-positioned to continue its record-breaking streak in the second half of 2025 and beyo
