Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has announced plans to develop a VVIP terminal and private jet hangar in partnership with Falcon Executive Aviation, part of Alex Group Investment.
The move is part of the emirate’s strategy to position itself as a global entertainment and tourism hub, offering a dedicated gateway for high-end travelers to the Northern Emirates.
New VVIP facility
The agreement with Falcon Executive Aviation covers the development and operation of a Fixed Base Operation (FBO) facility. The project includes a 1,500 sq m luxury terminal, an 8,000 sq m multi-purpose hangar, and 9,000 sq m of apron and aircraft parking. The location, just 15 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah’s leading beach resorts and the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort, is designed to attract private aviation clients and high-value visitors.
Eng. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah’s Department of Civil Aviation, said: “Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone in Ras Al Khaimah’s continued emergence as a global destination.
“The development of this world-class facility strengthens our aviation infrastructure and enhances the Emirate’s ability to welcome high-value visitors, investors and partners from around the world. It underscores our ambition to expand our international reach while ensuring that every traveler’s first impression of Ras Al Khaimah reflects the quality, sophistication and hospitality for which we are known.”
He added, “This launch also plays a vital role in driving the sustainable growth of our tourism sector. By integrating advanced technologies, adopting environmentally responsible design principles and supporting new forms of future mobility, we are building an ecosystem that aligns with our long-term development objectives. As we continue to diversify our economy and elevate our global standing, this project represents a forward-looking investment in the prosperity and resilience of Ras Al Khaimah.”
Alex Group investment
Sultan Rashit Abdulla Rashit Al Shene, Founder & Chairman of Alex Group Investment, highlighted the company’s commitment to private aviation in the UAE: “Alex Group Investment expansion into Ras Al Khaimah marks a significant step in our long-term vision to elevate private aviation services across the UAE. This facility has been designed to match the growth and ambition of the Northern Emirates, combining luxury, operational capability and advanced sustainability standards. It reflects the hard work of our teams and our commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure to support the next chapter of aviation in the region.”
Luxury and operational features
The VVIP terminal will include a Royal lounge, four additional VVIP lounges, premium hospitality areas, and tailored services for high-profile travelers. The airside infrastructure will support a range of private aviation needs, including ample aircraft parking, a helipad, and designated areas for emerging vertical mobility solutions. The hangar will accommodate ultra-long-range private jets while offering full maintenance and operational support.
The facility will integrate the Falcon Signature Experience, providing a high level of privacy, efficiency, and personalised service. Built to international aviation standards, the project is designed to meet the expectations of global private aviation clients.
Sustainability is central to the project. The terminal and hangars are designed to achieve LEED Gold certification, with plans to offset 35% of energy consumption through solar power, adopt fully electric ground support equipment, and allow the use of sustainable aviation fuel. These measures are part of Ras Al Khaimah’s broader goal of achieving net-zero operational emissions.
Economic impact and timeline
The development represents a significant investment in the emirate’s aviation infrastructure and is expected to generate substantial economic benefits. Ras Al Khaimah is within four hours’ flying time of one-third of the world’s population, reinforcing its strategic location for private aviation. Construction is scheduled over the next 15 months, with the facility expected to open in the first quarter of 2027.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
