Ras Al Khaimah Welcomes Record-Breaking 654,000 Visitors in H1

In 2025, Ras Al Khaimah is no longer just an emerging destination, it’s fast becoming one of the Middle East’s most compelling travel stories. What’s unfolding here goes beyond tourism; it signals the beginning of a high-growth cycle that is transforming the northern emirate into a thriving hub for investment and culture.

The latest numbers are proof. In the first half of 2025, Ras Al Khaimah welcomed a record-breaking 654,000 tourists, marking a 6% increase year-on-year. More importantly, this growth translated into a 9% surge in tourism revenue, driven by a sharp rise in international arrivals and the emirate’s expanding event and hospitality sectors.

Ras Al Khaimah’s upward trajectory is the outcome of a carefully executed strategy led by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. Through targeted investments in air connectivity, infrastructure, and a well-curated lineup of international events, the emirate has reinforced its position in key source markets such as the UK, India, and China, while successfully expanding into new ones. 

Notably, visitor numbers surged from Romania by 65%, Poland by 56%, Uzbekistan by 47%, and Belarus by 30% growth largely driven by enhanced direct flight access.

India stayed one of the most important markets, with visitor numbers rising by 25% compared to last year. Tourist arrivals from China went up by 9.2%, Russia by 7%, and the UK by 5%. 

Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality landscape continued to expand in the first half of 2025, marked by the launch of several notable developments. These include the NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments with 156 keys, Fairmont Al Marjan Island offering 250 keys, and Taj Wellington Mews Al Marjan Island comprising 336 hotel apartments. 

Additionally, the highly anticipated Four Seasons Resort and Residences at Mina Al Arab, featuring 150 keys, is set to further elevate the emirate’s luxury offering. Together, these projects underscore the growing demand from both high-end travellers and discerning investors.

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has further strengthened its growth strategy through a series of strategic partnerships. Recent MOU with leading Chinese online travel agencies, as well as collaborations with Saudi-based platforms, are enhancing the emirate’s reach across key international markets. 

In addition, a new agreement with Huawei aims to advance smart tourism capabilities, positioning Ras Al Khaimah at the forefront of digital innovation and enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Signature events also played a key role in Ras Al Khaimah’s H1 success. The 18th Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon drew a record 10,000 participants and spectators, while the DP World Tour’s Ras Al Khaimah Championship returned for its fourth edition at the Al Hamra Golf Club, attracting global attention.

A Window of Opportunity

With a clear roadmap to welcome over 3.5 million annual visitors by 2030, Ras Al Khaimah is well on track to deliver sustainable long-term growth. As infrastructure deepens, partnerships expand, and visitor demand continues to rise, the emirate is not just shaping a new narrative for regional tourism it’s unlocking lasting economic value across real estate.

One Investments is founded on a firm belief in Dubai’s long-term growth and potential. Our portfolio is shaped by a commitment to transparency, international standards, and a strategic understanding of the region’s dynamic real estate market. 

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