Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism sector continues to expand at a fast pace, supported by new leisure projects, growing private sector participation, and a wider range of visitor experiences across the emirate.
Tourism growth
Tourism has emerged as the fastest-growing sector in Ras Al Khaimah, driven by investments that make use of the emirate’s natural assets, including the Hajar Mountains, 64 kilometres of coastline, and desert landscapes. These features have encouraged the development of desert safaris, mountain tours, and water-based activities, supported by hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
In 2024, the emirate welcomed 1.28 million visitors, recording a 12 percent increase in tourism revenues. Visitor numbers in the meetings, incentives, exhibitions, and conferences segment rose by 15 percent during the same year. In the first half of 2025, visitor arrivals exceeded 654,000, as Ras Al Khaimah works toward a target of more than 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030.
Government initiatives
The Ras Al Khaimah government continues to focus on strengthening the emirate’s position as a sustainable tourism destination. The emirate was named Gulf Tourism Capital in 2020 and 2021 by GCC tourism ministers.
Tourism startups are also being highlighted through national initiatives, including the sixth edition of the World’s Coolest Winter campaign, launched under the theme “Our Winter Is Entrepreneurial”, which focuses on promoting tourism destinations across the UAE.
Adventure tourism
Ras Al Khaimah has positioned itself as a hub for adventure tourism, offering land, sea, and air experiences. Activities range from mountain hiking and desert challenges to water sports and aerial experiences.
Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline, stretches 2.83 kilometres at an altitude of 1,680 metres above sea level, reaching speeds of up to 150 km/h. Hot air balloon experiences, introduced in 2022, offer panoramic views of the emirate’s coastlines, deserts, mangroves, and mountains. These tours are operated by ActionFlight.
Water tourism also remains in demand, with activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing offered along the emirate’s beaches by companies including Adventure Sports.
Sports events
Major international sporting events have contributed to Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism profile. The emirate hosts events such as the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, the UAE Tour mountain stages at Jebel Jais, the Highlander Challenge, and the Jais Ride cycling race.
Last year, the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon attracted more than 10,000 runners and spectators. The emirate also hosted the fourth edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Championship on the DP World Tour at Al Hamra Golf Club, alongside other endurance and adventure events.
Hotels and resorts
Hotels and resorts remain a key pillar of the tourism sector. The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has announced major hotel developments as part of a plan to double hotel room capacity by 2030. Upcoming projects involve global brands including Four Seasons, Fairmont, Taj, and NH Collection.
Planned openings include NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island with 156 rooms, Fairmont Al Marjan Island with 250 rooms, Taj Wellington Mews Al Marjan with 336 serviced apartments, and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Ras Al Khaimah at Mina Al Arab with 150 rooms. The recent opening of Rove Al Marjan Island has added a contemporary beachfront option to the market.
Nature camps
Nature-based camps have expanded the range of visitor experiences. Bear Grylls Explorers Camp on Jebel Jais offers survival-focused activities, while Sonara Camp Al Wadi provides wildlife-based desert experiences. Camp 1770, the highest camp in the UAE at 1,770 metres above sea level, offers hiking, camping, and locally prepared cuisine with views of Jebel Jais and surrounding palm farms.
