Ras Al Khaimah welcomed record visitor numbers in 2023

In a year marked by unparalleled achievements, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has announced that the Emirate welcomed 1.22 million overnight visitors in 2023.

This figure represents an 8% increase from 2022, with a 24% surge in international arrivals, solidifying the Emirate’s status as a burgeoning global destination.

The year also saw Ras Al Khaimah set a benchmark in sustainable tourism, becoming the first destination in the Middle East to receive EarthCheck’s coveted Silver Certification, acknowledging its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

Reflecting on its achievements, RAKTDA Chief Executive, Raki Phillips stated “2023 was a defining year for our Emirate.

“We’ve laid a strong foundation for sustainable growth, proving that our resilience and collaborative spirit can create an unparalleled destination experience even amidst global challenges.”

A Global Tourism Hub
The year 2023 saw Ras Al Khaimah emerge as a magnet for international visitors, driven by increased international activities such as roadshows and trade fairs across 30 countries. This expansion was bolstered by a 24% rise in international visitors, underscoring the Emirate’s growing appeal on the global stage.

Infrastructural Investments and Strategic Partnerships
Investments in tourism infrastructure played a pivotal role in this growth. The Emirate witnessed significant developments, including the debut of Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort and the reopening of the revamped Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. The year also saw collaborations, such as the borderless travel initiative with Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group), enhancing cross-destination tourism between Ras Al Khaimah and Oman’s Musandam region.

Boosting Air and Sea Connectivity
2023 marked a leap in Ras Al Khaimah’s connectivity by introducing direct flights from major carriers like Qatar Airways and Indian carrier IndiGo. This enhanced air connectivity significantly contributed to the tourism boom. Additionally, the Emirate’s cruise industry saw a significant uptick, with a scheduled increase in luxury cruise calls, further diversifying its tourism portfolio.

Championing Sustainable Tourism
Sustainability remained a cornerstone of Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism strategy. Achieving EarthCheck Silver Certification, the Emirate demonstrated remarkable improvements in crucial sustainability indicators, including a 23% reduction in energy consumption and a significant decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. This commitment extends beyond environmental metrics, as RAKTDA also launched the Responsible RAK certification program, encouraging local tourism businesses to adopt sustainable practices.

Driving Visitor Growth Through Innovative Hospitality
The Emirate’s hospitality sector saw a dynamic expansion in 2023. The opening of luxury resorts and hotels, such as the Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort and the refurbished Waldorf Astoria, played a critical role in attracting tourists. Upcoming projects like the Westin Resort and Sofitel Al Hamra promise to further enhance the Emirate’s accommodation offerings, ensuring diverse options for all travellers.

A Hub for Events and Celebrations
Ras Al Khaimah solidified its reputation as a premier destination for events and celebrations. The Emirate successfully hosted several high-profile events, including the 2023 WMF Minifootball World Cup, the RAK Half Marathon, and the Arab Aviation Summit. Notably, its New Year’s Eve fireworks and drone display set two new Guinness World Records, attracting over 65,000 visitors and highlighting the Emirate’s capacity for staging spectacular events.

Looking to the Future
As Ras Al Khaimah steps into 2024, the Emirate is poised for continued success. With its strategic growth plans, commitment to sustainability, and a burgeoning reputation as a global tourism hub, Ras Al Khaimah is a destination to watch and experience.

With 2023 setting a new benchmark for Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism sector, Phillips added “we are ready to welcome the world to our shores.

“Our record-breaking year is just the beginning. The best is yet to come.”

Image: The Jebel Jais Zip line - the world's longest.