Ras Al Khaimah’s Tourism Booms in H1 2025 with 654K Visitors and Record Growth

Ras Al Khaimah Hits Tourism Milestone in H1 2025

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has kicked off 2025 with remarkable momentum, reporting over 654,000 visitor arrivals between January and June—a 6% year-on-year growth. Alongside this surge, tourism revenue climbed by 9%, reinforcing the Emirate’s rising appeal as a global travel destination and MICE hotspot.

Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), credited the growth to a strategic mix of expanded connectivity, diverse experiences, and targeted partnerships. “We are firmly on track to achieve our 2030 vision of welcoming over 3.5 million visitors annually,” he stated.

Strong Gains from Core Source Markets

RAK’s success story is being driven by impressive performances across key markets:

• India: +25% YoY

• China: +9.2%

• Russia: +7%

• UK: +5%
  
  

The most notable leap came from countries with new direct air links, including:

• Romania: +65%

• Poland: +56%

• Uzbekistan: +47%

• Belarus: +30%

These figures highlight the importance of air connectivity in boosting inbound tourism for the region.

Strategic Airline Routes Power Growth

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has been instrumental in this upward trajectory, introducing direct flights from Warsaw, Bucharest, Moscow, Tashkent, and Prague. These new routes align with the airport’s broader expansion strategy to enhance capacity and arrival experience, especially for larger aircraft—critical for group travel, MICE, and long-haul markets.

MICE and Destination Weddings on the Rise

A key highlight from H1 2025 is the 36% increase in MICE and wedding revenues, driven by:

• Lavish Indian and Gulf destination weddings

• International corporate retreats and incentives

• A packed calendar of high-profile events

This segment positions RAK as a premium B2B destination for wedding planners, event agencies, and corporates across the GCC and South Asia.

Major Hotel Expansions Strengthen Portfolio

To meet growing demand, Ras Al Khaimah announced several new luxury and mid-scale hotel developments:

• NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island (156 keys)

• Fairmont Al Marjan Island (250 keys)

• Taj Wellington Mews (336 hotel apartments)

• Four Seasons Resort and Residences Mina Al Arab (150 keys)

• Rove Al Marjan Island – a lifestyle beachfront hotel

These properties aim to double the hotel key count by 2030, offering more choices for leisure travellers, corporates, and wedding parties.

Strategic Partnerships Fuel Market Expansion

In line with its international ambitions, RAKTDA signed multiple agreements in H1 2025:

• MoUs with Trip.com and Tongcheng to boost China arrivals

• Collaborations with top Saudi OTAs like Fursan Travel, Smart Holidays, Almatar, and Wego

• Cross-Emirate adventure tie-up with Fujairah Adventures

• Smart tourism MoU with Huawei to enhance visitor experience

• Blockchain pilot with Open World for a digital rewards program

These initiatives reinforce Ras Al Khaimah’s focus on innovation and sustainable growth.

Sports and Adventure Events Strengthen Branding

Large-scale events are playing a crucial role in shaping the Emirate’s identity:

• RAK Half Marathon 2025 drew 10,000+ attendees

• UAE Tour – Jebel Jais Stage returned for its 7th edition

• RAK Championship – DP World Tour hosted at Al Hamra Golf Club

• HIGHLANDER hiking adventure welcomed global participants

• Jais Ride—a 25km endurance cycling event—made its debut
  
  

For DMCs, incentive planners, and sports travel operators, Ras Al Khaimah is emerging as a serious contender for high-impact experiences.

Final Takeaway for B2B Travel Professionals

Ras Al Khaimah is no longer a hidden gem—it’s a fast-maturing, high-potential destination for B2B travel professionals. With sustained government support, increased airlift, premium accommodation, and event infrastructure, the Emirate offers a compelling value proposition for:

• MICE planners

• Destination wedding curators

• DMCs and tour operators

• Consolidators serving India, GCC, and CIS markets

Stay ahead of the curve by tracking RAK’s expansion—this is where the next wave of outbound travel demand is heading.

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