Tucked away in the northernmost corner of the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is undergoing a spectacular transformation, shedding its understated persona to emerge as a vibrant destination.
As the emirate’s hospitality scene evolves, its treasures β rugged natural beauty, rich cultural heritage (dating back more than 7,000 years), and warm Arabian hospitality β are being rediscovered and appreciated by adventurers seeking authenticity beyond the glitz of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The arrival of the ultra luxury Wynn Casino, is undoudtedly setting new hospitality standards in the region, offering world-class amenities, innovative guest experiences, and unparalleled service. Meanwhile, established players like the Radisson Resort RAK are adapting and evolving to meet the changing needs of modern travellers.
In this exclusive interview, David Allan, Cluster GM of Radisson Resort RAK, shares his insights on RAK’s transformation, the impact of new developments, as well as Radisson’s strategies for staying competitive and ahead of the curve as the emirate prepares for an influx of visitors.
How has Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism landscape evolved in recent years, and what factors have been, and are, contributing to its growing popularity?
DA: Through sustainable tourism, strategic partnerships and innovative ideas, Ras Al Khaimah has carved an extraordinary path and evolution in the tourism landscape. Factors such as the local landscapes (which include pristine beaches, lush mangrove forests, vast terracotta desert dunes), the opening of new luxury hotels and resorts, and enhanced connectivity through direct flight routes to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport have all played an important role.
What are some experiences or attractions that differentiate RAK from other destinations in the UAE?
DA: The historical, cultural, and adventurous experiences including Jebel Jais the highest mountain in the UAE, Wadi Shawka, Suwaidi Pearl Farm, the Al Jazeera Al Hamra the oldest village in the United Arab Emirates and Jais Flight, the worldβs longest zipline. Not forgetting all that Marjan Island has to offer, too.
How do you anticipate the upcoming Wynn Casino will impact the local tourism and hospitality market, and what strategies is Radisson Resort RAK implementing to stay appealing and competitive?
DA: It will be a major demand generator and will create new markets for us while cementing Ras Al Khaimah as a global destination. We will continue to prioritise diversification and appeal, plus focusing on the F&B and events sectors.
How do you see the arrival of Wynn and other brands affecting the overall quality and standards of hospitality in RAK?
DA: There will be a positive impact on hospitality and tourism across the Emirate. This will drive demand, revenue, visitors and standards. The level of hospitality in RAK is already high. However, it will trigger motivation for our brand and others to go an extra mile to meet the high competition and delivery.
How is the hotel industry collaborating with RAKTDA to develop, improve and promote the emirate’s tourism infrastructure?
DA: We work extremely closely with RAKTDA across many aspects both for our own hotel and for the destination as a whole – especially through collaborations with journalists and influencers from different countries, site inspections with DMCs and tour operators, townhall meetings, etc. They are extremely supportive and I canβt speak highly enough of them and their work.
How is the Radisson Resort RAK adapting to the ever-evolving guest expectations and preferences, particularly with regards to sustainability, technology and modern facilities?
DA: We have always been committed to provide exceptional experiences that meet the ever-evolving expectations of our guests by adopting sustainable practices and innovative solutions that not only enhance the guest experience, but also streamline our operations. For example, migration from Onsite PMS to Cloud-based PMS, secure payment methods, smart meeting rooms, energy-reduction practices, water conservation with our towel reuse and green housekeeping programs, and waste reduction strategies etc.
What is Radissonβs outlook on the future of tourism in RAK, and how do you see the emirate evolving as a tourist destination?
DA: In a recent visit by His Highness, ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the CEO of Radisson Hotel Group, Frederico Gonzales, reaffirmed Radisson Hotel Groupβs commitment to expanding its operations in the emirate and contributing to the growth of both the tourism and economic sectors. RHG believes in the bright future of the emirateβs developments and the considerable potential there.
I see RAK as the next hotspot in coordination with Dubai. Many travellers, when they visit UAE, combine their trips with Dubai and RAK β combining the mix of dazzling modern architecture, extravagant shopping experiences, and rich cultural diversity of Dubai and RAK’s pristine beaches, long-standing traditions, diverse cultural sites, and archaeological wonders.
What training and support programs does Radisson Resort RAK offer to travel agents and tour operators to help them more effectively sell and promote the hotel and Ras Al Khaimah as a destination?
DA: We actively participate in educational forums and workshops organised by RAKTDA, which are specifically designed to educate travel and tour operator teams about our resort’s unique features, latest promotions, and exclusive offerings. Through these workshops, we share our expertise and showcase the best of RAK, highlighting some of the best coastal and mountain spots RAK has to offer, and curating unforgettable itineraries that extend beyond our resort.
Are there any co-op marketing opportunities, joint promotions, or packages that travel agents and tour operators can participate in to drive bookings and revenue?
DA: We do offer custom made and targeted packages and promotions, aiming at specific markets and nationalities via our key partners including DMCs and tour operators, as well as our RHG international affiliations and OTAs. We also ensure we have something for every niche market, from couples to families and leisure or incentive groups from associations or local / international corporates. CIS, Russia, UK, Germany, China and the local market among others. We offer a variety of different activities that cater to families, couples and solo travelers, including live entertainment shows, mascots, watersports, yoga sessions, water aerobics, and more.
Does Radisson have any upcoming projects or developments in RAK and even the wider UAE which travelers can look forward to?
DA: We certainly do! We have announced the Radisson RED on Marjan Island to open in 2027, and will hopefully be able to provide more updates in the coming months. Stay tuned!
What is a little-known gem in RAK which many people donβt know about, but should, to elevate their travel experience to the emirate?
DA: Wadi Shawka, located on the outskirts of RAK in the Hazar Mountains, is loved for its natural pools, formed thanks to the high amount of rainfall the area receives. And apart from the area’s many rugged hiking trails and pools, Wadi Shawka also has a few protected heritage sites to explore and great wildlife to spot.
What’s your personal favourite standout feature of the Radisson Resort RAK, which sets the hotel apart from others in area?
DA: It has to be our team. Providing memorable moments is what we do and we work hard every day to ensure this is the case. People really do make the difference at our resort.
David Allan is a seasoned hospitality leader with a proven track record of driving financial performance and leading teams through successful hotel openings, including his current role as Cluster General Manager of Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island. Throughout his career, David has received numerous industry accolades, including General Manager Excellence recognition, GM Leader of the Year, and Leading Hotel Hospitality Heavyweight Winner.
