Ras Al Khaimah Aims To Attract 3.5 Million Visitors By 2030, Focusing Mainly On The Indian Market.

The CEO of the RAK Tourism Development Authority speaks to the emirate's growing appeal, rapid increase in tourist arrivals, and ambitious sustainability plans.

Ras Al Khaimah is fast becoming the next favourite destination for Indians as it blends breathtaking landscapes with luxurious accommodations and rich cultural experiences. The emirate witnessed a remarkable 103 per cent increase in wedding-related revenues from Indian tourists in 2023 and further consolidated its status as a premier destination for destination weddings.

To further promote tourism in this sector, the RAK Tourism Development Authority is actively increasing its wedding offerings by providing holistic incentives for destinations, including free visas for wedding parties and tailored packages, and highlighting RAK as a top choice for memorable wedding celebrations tapping into the growing demand from Indian couples who love both luxury and cultural richness in their special day.

Raki Phillips, the CEO of the RAK Tourism Development Authority, shared insights into the emirate's growing appeal, prominent increase in tourist arrivals, and ambitious sustainability plans. With a 20 per cent year-on-year increase in Indian visitors in 2023, RAK's charm is backed by direct flights and proximity to some major Indian cities.

Record-breaking Wedding Tourism Revenue

Philips explains, "Ras Al Khaimah is steadily becoming a sought-after destination for Indian tourists, offering an extraordinary blend of adventure, luxury, and natural beauty." The geographical advantage of the emirate, being a short 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport and direct flight connections from cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Lucknow, and Calicut, made the destination accessible to travellers. One of the other vital facets that Philips highlighted was the varied profile of Indian visitors. "Indian visitors span families, adventure enthusiasts and wellness seekers all increasingly captivated by the emirate's unique charm," he noted.

RAK has witnessed a growing interest from young couples and honeymooners drawn to its serene landscapes and luxury offerings. The destination's emerging reputation as a wedding hotspot has also seen a remarkable 103% increase in 2023. "The stunning natural backdrop and world-class resorts make it an ideal setting for couples seeking unforgettable wedding experiences," Phillips added.

Diving deeper into the demographic trends, Phillips stated that Indian tourists typically stay in RAK for an average of four to six nights. This duration aligns well with their preferences for relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Families find the emirate attractive because it is family-friendly and offers outdoor activities. Adventure travellers are also growingly interested in RAK's products, including hiking at the Jebel Jais mountain and participating in various water sports. "The natural landscape provides ample opportunities for thrill-seeking activities," he remarked.

Expanding Adventure and Wellness Offerings

Philips mentioned the Jebel Jais zip line and cultural experiences at the Suwaidi Pearl farm as famous attractions for Indian tourists. However, the emirate provides many activities catering to diverse interests. Desert adventures like dune bashing, camel trekking, and horseback riding in the stunning Al Wadi nature reserve are major draws," he explained.

Apart from aerial tours, hot air ballooning and light sport aircraft tours are now gaining popularity as they offer views of breathtaking landscapes from the air. Heritage sites include Al Jazeera Al Hamra and Dhayah Fort, which give a rich understanding of RAK's over 7,000 years of seeking spiritual cultural indulgence.

According to Philips, CEO, RAK has created a niche for itself as a location for Indian weddings. "What makes it special is its diverse landscape," he said. It is about the various Emirates offerings, from pristine beachfront resorts to desert oases and majestic mountains.

"The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority plays a significant role in offering destination incentives, including visa-free weddings, hence easing the planning process in itself," he added.

Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

Looking towards the future, Philips shared RAK's vision for sustainable tourism leadership in 2025. "Sustainability is central for everything we do at RAKTDA," he focused. The emirate has made prominent strides in the area, recently achieving the EarthCheck Sustainable Destination Silver Certification. Our sustainable tourism strategy integrates economic, environmental, cultural, and social considerations into our development framework," he explained, underscoring the relevance of preserving RAK's natural beauty and cultural heritage. One of RAKTDA's key initiatives is the Green Hotel rating, which is designed to ensure sustainable practices across the hospitality sector. "The aim is to achieve a 50 per cent reduction in waste disposal by 2025 supported by continuous monitoring," Phillips stated. He also highlighted plans to preserve and develop 20 heritage sites as key tourist attractions, with Al Jazeera Al Hamra being a prime example.

Looking Forward: Vision for 2024 and Beyond

The emirate focuses on attracting 3.5 million visitors by 2030; Philips acknowledged the role of the Indian market in its strategy. "To ensure sustained growth, we are enhancing connectivity with direct flights and expanding our tourism offerings with over 7,000 new hotel rooms," he noted. These developments include prestigious brands like Nobu and Wynn Al Marjan Island catering to various segments, including luxury family vacations and the burgeoning destination wedding market. The RAKTDA CEO also revealed that the company is launching targeted marketing campaigns and deepening partnerships with Indian tour operators, wedding planners, and event organizers to tap into the evolving preferences of Indian travellers. "Our unique blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural experiences makes Ras Al Khaimah an appealing destination for Indian tourists," Philips concluded with optimism.

#rak #tourisminrak #visitrak #uaenews #uaetourism #indianvisitors