Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is rapidly emerging as a favored destination for Indian tourists, blending breathtaking landscapes, luxurious accommodations, and rich cultural experiences. The emirate has witnessed a remarkable 103 per cent increase in wedding-related revenues from Indian tourists in 2023, solidifying its status as a premier destination for destination weddings.
To further promote tourism in this sector, the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) is actively enhancing its wedding offerings by providing comprehensive destination incentives, including free visas for wedding parties and tailored packages for couples. . These initiatives aim to streamline the planning process and highlight RAK as a top choice for unforgettable wedding celebrations, tapping into the growing demand from Indian couples who desire both luxury and cultural richness in their special day.
In an exclusive interview with ETTravelWorld, Raki Phillips, CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), shared insights into the emirate’s growing appeal, significant increases in tourist arrivals, and ambitious sustainability plans. With a 20 per cent year-on-year increase in Indian visitors in 2023, RAK’s allure is backed by direct flights and proximity to major Indian cities.
Record-Breaking Wedding Tourism Revenue
Phillips began by discussing the factors driving the surge in Indian tourism to Ras Al Khaimah. “Ras Al Khaimah is steadily becoming a sought-after destination for Indian tourists, offering an extraordinary blend of adventure, luxury, and natural beauty,” he explained. The emirate’s geographical advantage, being just a short 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, coupled with direct flight connections from cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Lucknow, and Calicut, makes it an accessible choice for travelers.The diverse profile of Indian visitors is another significant aspect that Phillips highlighted. “Indian visitors span families, adventure enthusiasts, and wellness seekers, all increasingly captivated by the emirate’s unique charm,” he noted. RAK has witnessed a growing interest from young couples and honeymooners, drawn to its serene landscapes and luxury offerings. The destination’s emerging reputation as a wedding hotspot has also contributed to its popularity, with wedding-related revenues from India seeing a remarkable 103 per cent increase in 2023. “The stunning natural backdrop and world-class resorts make it an ideal setting for couples seeking unforgettable wedding experiences,” Phillips added.Diving deeper into the demographic trends, Phillips stated that Indian tourists typically stay in Ras Al Khaimah for an average of four to six nights. This duration aligns well with their preferences for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Families are particularly drawn to the emirate’s family-friendly resorts and attractions, including water parks, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Adventure travelers, on the other hand, are increasingly attracted to Ras Al Khaimah’s offerings, such as hiking in the Jebel Jais mountains and various water sports. “The natural landscapes provide ample opportunities for thrill-seeking activities,” he remarked.
Expanding Adventure and Wellness Offerings
Among the popular attractions for Indian tourists, Phillips mentioned the Jebel Jais zip line and cultural experiences at the Suwaidi Pearl Farm. However, the emirate offers a plethora of activities that cater to diverse interests. “Desert adventures like dune bashing, camel trekking, and horseback riding in the stunning Al Wadi Nature Reserve are major draws,” he explained. Additionally, aerial tours, such as hot air ballooning and light sport aircraft tours, are gaining popularity, allowing visitors to experience the breathtaking landscapes from above. For those seeking cultural immersion, heritage sites like Al Jazeera Al Hamra and Dhayah Fort offer rich insights into Ras Al Khaimah’s history, which dates back over 7,000 years.
RAKTDA’s efforts to promote Ras Al Khaimah globally resulted in an 8% increase in total annual visitors, reaching the milestone of 1.22 million, with a significant 24% boost in international visitors. The Emirate also witnessed a notable rise in hotel occupancy, reaching an impressive 74%, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 12 percentage points.
As a destination for Indian weddings, Phillips believes Ras Al Khaimah has carved out a unique niche. “What truly sets it apart is its diverse landscape,” he stated, highlighting the emirate’s offerings that range from pristine beachfront resorts to desert oases and majestic mountains. Historical sites provide heritage-rich backdrops, appealing to couples seeking one-of-a-kind wedding experiences. The luxurious resorts contribute significantly to this trend, providing high-end facilities and seamless event management. “The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority plays a significant role by offering destination incentives, including free visas for weddings, making the planning process smooth and comprehensive,” he added.
Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
Looking towards the future, Phillips shared RAK’s vision for sustainable tourism leadership by 2025. “Sustainability is central to everything we do at RAKTDA,” he emphasised. The emirate has made significant strides in this area, recently achieving the EarthCheck Sustainable Destination Silver Certification, a testament to their commitment to responsible tourism practices. “Our sustainable tourism strategy integrates economic, environmental, cultural, and social considerations into our development framework,” he explained, underscoring the importance of preserving Ras Al Khaimah’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
One of RAKTDA’s key initiatives is the Green Hotel Rating, designed to ensure sustainable practices across the hospitality sector. “The aim is to achieve a 50 per cent reduction in waste disposal by 2025, supported by continuous monitoring,” Phillips stated. He also highlighted plans to preserve and develop 20 heritage sites as key tourist attractions, with Al Jazeera Al Hamra being a prime example. This historic pearl diving village, on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, is undergoing meticulous restoration to become a significant part of Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism offerings.
Looking Ahead: Vision for 2024 and Beyond
As the emirate aims to attract 3.5 million visitors by 2030, Phillips acknowledged the pivotal role of the Indian market in their strategy. “To ensure sustained growth, we are enhancing connectivity with direct flights and expanding our tourism offerings with over 7,000 new hotel rooms,” he noted. These developments include prestigious brands like Nobu and Wynn Al Marjan Island, catering to various segments, including luxury, family vacations, and the burgeoning destination wedding market.
The RAKTDA CEO also revealed that they are launching targeted marketing campaigns and deepening partnerships with Indian tour operators, wedding planners, and event organizers to tap into the evolving preferences of Indian travellers.
“Our unique blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural experiences makes Ras Al Khaimah an appealing destination for Indian tourists,” Phillips concluded with optimism.
