New Luxury Travel Destination in UAE Attracts 1.22 Million Visitors, Not in Dubai

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known for its luxurious and extravagant tourism offerings, with Dubai often taking the spotlight as the go-to destination for travelers. However, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), another emirate in the UAE, is now making waves in the tourism industry with its ambitious plans to become a premium travel destination.

At the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, tourism authorities revealed their vision for RAK, which includes the development of new upscale hotels, expanded airport amenities, and a multibillion-dollar integrated casino resort. The emirate aims to quadruple the number of hotel rooms and triple visitor numbers by 2030, solidifying its position in the local hospitality industry.

One of the most significant projects in RAK is the 62-hectare Wynn Resorts RAK, which will feature 1,500 hotel rooms and the nation’s first gambling establishment. The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) is currently considering a gaming license for the massive hotel, signaling a new era of entertainment and leisure in the emirate.

Raki Phillips, CEO of the RAK Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), highlighted the benefits of RAK’s strategic location within the UAE, emphasizing the country’s robust tourism environment, security, stability, and natural resources. He pointed out that tourism plays a crucial role in the UAE’s economy, with 12% of the country’s GDP coming from the tourism sector and 750,000 people employed in the industry.

In 2023, RAK saw a 28% increase in international tourism, welcoming 1.22 million visitors. This number is expected to rise to 1.35 million in 2024, with the emirate aiming to attract 3.5 million overnight tourists annually by 2030. These impressive figures demonstrate RAK’s growing popularity as a travel destination and its potential to rival Dubai’s grandeur in the near future.

With its ambitious development plans, upscale accommodations, and unique attractions like the Wynn Resorts RAK, Ras Al Khaimah is poised to become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking luxury, entertainment, and cultural experiences in the UAE. As the emirate continues to invest millions in tourism and travel activities, it is clear that RAK is on track to become a premier destination that offers something for every type of traveler.