Ras Al Khaimah has announced big plans for its tourism sector, with a target to welcome 3.5 million visitors annually and double its hotel capacity by 2030, according to Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).
The emirate currently offers around 8,000 hotel rooms. To meet growing demand, this number will increase to 16,000–20,000 rooms in the coming years.
Major Developments Underway
Exciting new attractions and hotels are part of the expansion. One of the key projects includes the UAE’s first integrated gaming resort on Al Marjan Island. This multi-billion-dollar project by Wynn Resorts will open in early 2027, featuring:
- 1,500 hotel rooms
- 22 dining outlets
- Entertainment and conference facilities
Wynn Resorts, which has received the UAE’s first commercial gaming license, represents Ras Al Khaimah’s push toward becoming a global tourism hub.
“The leadership in Ras Al Khaimah is focused on clear goals to improve tourism and enhance quality of life for residents,” Phillips said.
A Top Staycation Spot
Ras Al Khaimah is already known as the number one staycation destination in the UAE, with 50% of its visitors being domestic tourists.
“Our strategy is to diversify markets and attract visitors from around the world,” Phillips added.
Expanding Global Reach
The emirate is working on increasing its presence in key international markets, especially China, through platforms like Huawei and Trip.com. The goal is to ensure no single market contributes more than 10-15% of total visitors.
Efforts are also being made to expand in markets such as Western Europe, India, and the CIS countries, ensuring Ras Al Khaimah becomes a preferred destination for global travelers.
