The Northern Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has firmly landed on the global travel radar, posting record tourism and aviation results in 2025 that signal a new era for its place on the world map.
The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) reports an impressive 1.35 million overnight visitors in 2025, up around 6% on the previous year, alongside a 12% surge in tourism revenues, clearly showing that not only is demand climbing, it’s also diversifying and deepening.
At the same time, Ras Al Khaimah International Airport hit a milestone of over 1 million passengers in 2025, underlining the impact of expanded flight networks that now link RAK with 16 international destinations, from India and Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, Russia and Egypt.
Why RAK is now on more travellers’ radars
Some key factors include:
- Stronger connectivity: With more international routes and airline services, the emirate is easier to reach than ever before.
- Better choice of experiences: From adventure and outdoor tourism to beach-front relaxation and cultural events, RAK’s appeal spans segments.
- Growing global appeal: Markets such as India, China, the UK and Russia have all posted double-digit visitor growth, boosted by direct links and targeted travel partnerships.
- Strategic leadership: Fresh leadership at RAKTDA has sharpened global partnerships, events and destination promotion, amplifying the emirate’s brand internationally.
Also read: The RAK rise: an inside scoop on the emirate’s tourism revolution
What RAK has to offer and what’s coming
RAK’s tourism evolution is about more than numbers. The destination is rapidly maturing with all sorts of progress, openings and developments, including:
- New hotel openings: Recent and upcoming launches including Rove Al Marjan Island and SO/ Ras Al Khaimah, alongside major future brands like Four Seasons, Fairmont, Taj and NH Collection, are expanding accommodation choice and quality.
- Mega developments underway: Mixed-use communities such as RAK Central and large infrastructure projects are creating fresh hubs for visitors and residents alike.
- Wynn Al Marjan Island: The UAE’s very first fully integrated resort, complete with expansive leisure, entertainment and hospitality offerings, is a transformational arrival expected to open in 2027, and well positioned to attract high-value international travellers.
- Weddings, events and experiences: A growing portfolio of signature events, from ultra-marathons and art festivals to weddings and MICE offerings, is strengthening RAK’s position beyond sun-and-sand tourism.
2025’s success is the result of smart strategic investment, enhanced connectivity, diversified experiences and visionary destination planning. With broader flight networks, a pipeline of signature hotel and resort openings, and robust source-market growth, Ras Al Khaimah is moving from being a “hidden gem” to must-sell destination for travel agents.
For the travel trade, the Ras Al Khaimah story isn’t just about numbers. Their story is about momentum and meaningful diversification across the tourism ecosystem.
Beyond strong sellability and new flight connections, the emirate is fostering a dynamic startup scene that is creating fresh, authentic tourism experiences, from desert safaris and mountain tours to water sports, aerial activities and digital-first services that amplify visitor engagement and demand. This innovative spirit, coupled with a wide accommodation mix, major events, and visionary future anchors like Wynn Al Marjan Island, provides rich new narratives to a wide segment of travellers.
Read more: Fact Sheet: Ras Al Khaimah
