- Ras Al Khaimah welcomed 1.35 million overnight visitors in 2025, a 6% increase.
- Tourism revenue rose 12% driven by growth in nature and adventure tourism.
- New hotels and infrastructure boosted hospitality and business event sectors.
Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has reported one of its strongest tourism years yet, welcoming 1.35 million overnight visitors in 2025. The figure marks a 6 per cent rise from the previous year, supported by growing interest from key international markets and a notable 14 per cent jump in arrivals from India. Ras Al Khaimah also recorded a 12 per cent increase in tourism revenues, reflecting its expanding appeal among travellers seeking nature, adventure and quieter alternatives within the UAE.
According to the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), 2025 brought "landmark progress" across events, hospitality and infrastructure. New hotels, expanded air links and a busier calendar of cultural and sporting events contributed to the momentum as Ras Al Khaimah continues its long-term plans to scale tourism sustainably by 2030.
Boost In Tourist Arrivals From Multiple Countries
Ras Al Khaimah saw rising demand across international segments, including China (19 per cent), the United Kingdom (10 per cent) and Russia (20 per cent). Improved direct connectivity fuelled additional growth from Romania (41 per cent), Poland (22 per cent), Uzbekistan (19 per cent) and Belarus (26 per cent).
Business events and destination weddings also contributed significantly, with MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and wedding revenues climbing 25 per cent for the year.
New Hotels, Boost In Hospitality Sector
Two new openings shaped the Emirate's hotel landscape in 2025 - Rove Al Marjan Island and SO/ Ras Al Khaimah - expanding its offering of beachfront and lifestyle-driven properties.
Major global brands such as Janu, Four Seasons, Fairmont, Taj and NH Collection also announced upcoming developments.
Progress continued at Wynn Al Marjan Island, which topped out its 70-storey structure at 283 metres. When completed in 2027, the integrated resort is expected to add more than 1,500 rooms, 22 dining venues and create over 9,000 jobs.
Master Developments And Infrastructure Push In Ras Al Khaimah
The unveiling of Marjan Beach, an 85-million-sq-ft beachfront masterplan including hotels, residential units and large green spaces, marked one of the year's major announcements.
Meanwhile, RAK Central continued construction as a mixed‑use district aimed at attracting global businesses and investors.
Authorities also announced plans for a LEED Gold-targeted VIP Terminal at Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, expected to open in 2027.
Cultural And Sporting Events Gain Momentum
The Emirate strengthened its position as an adventure and culture-friendly destination with events such as the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, which drew over 10,000 runners, and the UAE Tour's Jebel Jais Mountain Stage.
The RAK Art Festival showcased regional and international artists, while the HIGHLANDER hiking challenge returned. The year ended with a New Year's Eve drone and fireworks show that set a new Guinness World Records title.
Air And Cruise Connectivity Expands
New direct flights from cities including Jeddah, Warsaw, Bucharest, Moscow, Minsk, Tashkent and Prague helped widen access to the Emirate in 2025, supported by partnerships with IndiGo, Air India Express and Air Arabia. Ras Al Khaimah also strengthened its cruise tourism segment through a multi-year agreement with Celestyal Cruises.
A Wholesome Travel Guide To Ras Al Khaimah
Unlike Dubai's fast-paced urban setting, RAK is quieter, more scenic and ideal for those wanting nature-focused activities with modern comforts. Its compact size makes it easy to explore multiple landscapes in one trip.
Exploring Jebel Jais And The Emirate's Stunning Mountain Adventures
Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest peak, is one of RAK's biggest highlights. The drive up the mountain is lined with viewpoints overlooking the rugged Hajar range.
Adventure lovers can try the Jais Flight, the world's longest zipline, or enjoy the Jais Sledder, a fun track-based ride down the slope.
For relaxed travellers, the Jais Viewing Deck Park offers beautiful sunrise and sunset vistas along with quiet picnic spots.
Beaches, Islands and Resort Experiences
RAK's beaches are among the calmest in the UAE. Al Hamra Beach and Marjan Island offer soft sands, gentle waves and a wide choice of resorts, from family-friendly to luxury. Travellers can try kayaking through the Al Rams mangroves, enjoy snorkelling, take dhow cruises at sunset or unwind by the shore.
Forts, Museums, And Pearl Heritage
History enthusiasts can climb Dhayah Fort, a 16th-century hilltop fort with sweeping views of the date farms and coastline. The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, housed in a centuries-old fort, showcases traditional tools, archaeological finds and the Emirate's pearl-diving legacy. A visit to Suwaidi Pearls, one of the region's last working pearl farms, adds an insightful cultural experience.
Best Time To Visit Ras Al Khaimah
The ideal season is between October and March, when the temperature is pleasant for hiking, desert safaris, cycling routes, and beach activities. Summer tends to be hot but offers quieter resorts, indoor attractions and well-priced stays.
How To Reach From India
Indian travellers can fly into Dubai or Sharjah, with RAK just a 45 to 60-minute drive away. Accommodation is generally more affordable than in Dubai, and Indian food is available across the Emirate. While public transport is limited, taxis and hotel-organised transfers are reliable and comfortable.
With its dramatic mountains, long beaches, cultural sites, and relaxed atmosphere, Ras Al Khaimah offers Indian travellers a wholesome holiday.
