RAK received over 1 mn visitors in ’24

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) reports 2024 as its strongest year ever, welcoming a record-high 1.28 million overnight arrivals, with 12 per cent growth in tourism revenues and a notable 15 per cent rise in MICE visitors. The success is a testament to the Emirate’s strategic and sustainable growth vision to attract over 3.5 million annual visitors by 2030.

TT Bureau

Commenting on the Ras Al Khaimah’s achievements, Raki Phillips, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “2024 was a milestone year for Ras Al Khaimah, showcasing our commitment to sustainability, enhanced connectivity, and diverse experiences tailored to every traveller. Looking ahead, our vision extends beyond attracting more visitors; we aim to position Ras Al Khaimah as a destination of the future. With significant investments, world-class events, and groundbreaking developments on the horizon, 2025 is set to be another remarkable year.” Several factors contributed to this robust performance in 2024, including the opening of new hotels and resorts, a growing calendar of international events, increased connectivity to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, best-in-class marketing campaigns and over 2,200 international activities and market engagements across 70 cities.

RAK’s key achievements in ’24

• Record-breaking visitor numbers: 1.28 million overnight arrivals, marking 12 per cent growth of tourism revenues and 15 per cent rise in MICE visitors.
• Global recognition for sustainability: RAKTDA’s sustainability programme was named the ‘Middle East’s Most Sustainable Project’ at the Forbes Middle East 2024 Sustainability Leaders’ Summit.
• Enhanced connectivity: Boosted accessibility to the Emirate with the introduction of new direct flights from key cities enhancing connectivity through Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.
• Expanded hospitality offerings: The opening of Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort and Anantara Mina Al Arab Resort introduced new luxury experiences, including the Emirate’s first overwater villas.
• Exceptional events: From the third HIGHLANDER Adventure hiking challenge and RAK Golf Championship to the Arab Aviation Summit and Global Citizen Forum held for four consecutive years, Ras Al Khaimah continues to host world-class events. Highlights also include the 16th Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, the HUAWEI AppGallery Gamers Cup, and the launch of the Seven Wonders experiential concert series.
• Record-breaking New Year’s Eve celebrations: The Emirate ushered in 2025 with a spectacular fireworks and drone display, setting two new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ titles.
• Workplace excellence: For the 4th consecutive year, RAKTDA was certified as a Great Place to Work®, recognised in multiple categories: ‘Best Workplaces in the Middle East’, ‘Best Workplaces in Hospitality™ in the GCC’, and ‘Best Workplaces for Women in the GCC’.