Latest news with #IyadRasbey
The National
03-05-2025
- The National
Why British tourists are falling in love with Ras Al Khaimah
While Dubai and Abu Dhabi have long dominated UAE tourism, a boom is taking place farther up the coast. Ras Al Khaimah is fast becoming a go-to destination for British holidaymakers, carving out a niche among tourists in search of value for money, authenticity and adventure. This shift was underscored at Arabian Travel Market 2025, where Iyad Rasbey, vice president of destination tourism development of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), told The National the emirate had recorded a 15 per cent increase in UK visitors year-on-year in 2024. Data from global travel intelligence platform Mabrian, shared exclusively with The National, also shows a strong preference among UK-based travellers for Ras Al Khaimah among inbound tourists, although two out of three visitors to the emirate are domestic. 'Ras Al Khaimah is positioned as a short-stay getaway, with an average stay of 1.8 nights – particularly among UAE residents,' said Carlos Cendra, Mabrian partner and chief marketing officer. 'However, key international markets such as the UK (3.1 nights) and Saudi Arabia (2.3 nights) show slightly longer stays.' Diane Campos, who is retired and British, visited Ras Al Khaimah for the first time in February as she wanted to see a part of the UAE different to Dubai, that 'isn't so developed'. 'We found it very peaceful, with beautiful views, interesting architecture and unique things to do, like pearl-diving tours,' she told The National. British content creator Nailah Aljasmi, who is married to an Emirati and lives in Ras Al Khaimah, said there are several reasons why UK tourists are favouring the emirate over its neighbours. 'Ras Al Khaimah offers UK travellers a compelling mix of adventure, culture, luxury and affordability, all set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty,' she said. 'Its strategic developments and unique attractions make it a noteworthy alternative to more commercialised destinations in the UAE.' Jebel Jais – the highest mountain in the UAE – the old fishing village of Al Jazeera Al Hamra, RAK Museum, Suwaidi Pearl Farm, beach days and sunset barbecues in the desert are some of the activities Ms Aljasmi always incorporates into itineraries with visiting family and friends. 'It's the perfect mix of adventure, chill vibes and a bit of culture – RAK has this laid-back charm that visitors always fall in love with.' Authentic and 'experiential travel' were buzzwords this year at Arabian Travel Market, but they signal a shift in how people want to explore new destinations, giving them a sense of place, history and culture in a way that's neither forced nor performative. That desire for a more grounded and culturally immersive experience is a key driver of the Northern Emirates' popularity. Mr Rasbey says RAK stands in stark contrast to Dubai's glittering skyscrapers and mega-malls, offering a landscape of dramatic mountain ranges, expansive desert dunes and archaeological heritage that dates back 7,000 years. 'Our culture and heritage, along with unique experiences like the region's only pearl farm or swimming with camels, can't be found anywhere else in the UAE,' he told The National on the sidelines of ATM. The UK remains one of RAK's top-five source markets and its influence is only growing, Mr Rasbey added. He attributes much of this to the emirate's 'upscale all-inclusive' offering. Properties such as DoubleTree and Rixos Al Mairid cater especially well to British tastes – offering vast beaches, pools and all-inclusive packages that include room service, kids' clubs and outdoor activities. 'The properties in RAK enjoy massive space, so you don't queue for an ice cream, you don't queue at the bar,' said Mr Rasbey. 'You might pay the same amount of money as another emirate but you get an elevated experience.' Over the next six months, average hotel prices across Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are expected to converge, as hotel room rates are either increasing or decreasing to align, Mr Cendra told The National. 'Ras Al Khaimah has the highest average price in the five-star category, followed by Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Abu Dhabi is experiencing the highest increase in hotel prices across all categories for the coming six months, while five-star hotels are adjusting their rates slightly downwards in most areas of Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, aiming to align prices across the UAE.' Cameron McNeillie, general manager at InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, says the emirate is fast becoming one of the UAE's top contributors to hospitality growth. The hotel – whose guests are predominantly UAE residents, British, German or from CIS countries – reports occupancy performance in 2025 in line with last year, with a 6 per cent average daily rate increase year-on-year. 'With Ras Al Khaimah's profile rising on the global tourism map, new source markets opening up and ongoing enhancements to our offerings, we expect to build further momentum into 2026,' he told The National. Adventure tourism is a growing travel trend globally, leaving Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, which have plenty to offer on this front, in a strong position to capture market attention. This is why a major cross-emirate partnership between RAKTDA and Fujairah Adventures was announced this week at the International Conference on Adventure Tourism, creating the UAE's first multi-emirate hiking trail. Adventure tourism is expected to grow by 10 per cent-15 per cent annually over the next five years, according to various reports, and Mabrian data indicates that for RAK, 'active tourism' is now the second most important demand driver, behind culture and narrowly ahead of nature and the outdoors. The top growing markets are India, Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Russia, although Mr Rasbey said interest from the Netherlands, Bucharest, Prague and Belarus is also increasing due to direct connectivity. While the figures are still small in comparison to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the emirate has recorded a 45 per cent increase year-on-year in Chinese tourists. A significant surge in car rentals across Ras Al Khaimah and other Northern Emirates has also been noted, said Benny Thomas, chief financial officer at Dollar and Thrifty Car Rental UAE, with a 25 per cent-30 per cent increase in custom year-on-year. 'Much of this demand is being driven by western expatriates and European visitors who are increasingly looking to venture beyond the traditional Dubai and Abu Dhabi hotspots,' Mr Thomas told The National. Shifts in British media coverage are also shaping the UK market's interest in RAK. While Dubai still receives ample attention, British national newspapers have recently run more features on destinations such as Ras Al Khaimah, praising their affordability, nature and relaxed pace. The National was told representatives of two major British national publications were in RAK this month reviewing hotel properties, coinciding with the end of ATM. With an aim to attract 3.5 million visitors annually by the end of the decade and the UAE's first gaming resort to open in 2027, RAK is poised for strong growth. While it may be UK travellers flooding in right now, those demographics will shift as the emirate continues its transformation.
Zawya
01-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority strengthens presence in Saudi Arabia with strategic partnership at Arabian Travel Market
Dubai, UAE – In a move to bolster presence in Saudi Arabia, one of the most vital markets in the GCC, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has signed strategic co-marketing agreements with three leading online travel agencies (OTAs), Fursan Travel, Smart Holidays and Almatar during the Arabian Travel Market 2025. These partnerships will amplify Ras Al Khaimah's visibility through a mix of content marketing, influencer collaborations, and targeted digital marketing campaigns across the marketing funnel with offers aligned to Saudi holiday periods. Each partner brings unique strengths to the collaboration, offering curated travel experiences specifically tailored to the preferences and travel habits of Saudi nationals, while providing extensive regional reach and a strong user base that enhances Ras Al Khaimah's visibility across key Saudi cities. As the largest outbound travel market in the GCC, Saudi Arabia holds immense strategic value for Ras Al Khaimah. With its significant population, high spending power, and strong booking share to Ras Al Khaimah of 30% among GCC countries, the Kingdom represents a major growth opportunity for the Emirate. Saudi travellers have demonstrated a growing appetite for short-haul leisure destinations, making Ras Al Khaimah an increasingly attractive choice. Strengthening ties with key Saudi travel players ensures the Emirate stays top of mind in high-potential market. Commenting on the partnerships, Iyad Rasbey, Vice President – Destination Tourism Development at RAKTDA, said 'These partnerships are a critical part of our growth strategy, enabling us to deliver high-impact, data-driven campaigns that directly connect with Saudi travellers. Combined with improved air connectivity and our ongoing trade and media engagement, we're creating a powerful ecosystem to position Ras Al Khaimah as the destination of choice for Saudi visitors. This move marks another step forward in RAKTDA's ongoing strategy to attract more visitors from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The recently launched direct flight from Jeddah to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, operated by Air Arabia, has made the emirate more accessible than ever for Saudi travellers. About Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) was established in May 2011 under the government of Ras Al Khaimah. RAKTDA aims to develop the Emirate's tourism infrastructure and establish Ras Al Khaimah as a world-class destination for leisure and business travel, creating sustainable investment opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. In order to achieve its goals, the Authority has a government mandate to license, regulate and monitor the Emirate's tourism and hospitality industry.
Trade Arabia
05-03-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Ras Al Khaimah, Trip.Com tie up to target Chinese travellers
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Group, a leading global travel services provider, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at ITB Berlin 2025 to launch a range of new initiatives designed to boost Ras Al Khaimah's appeal as a must-visit destination for Chinese travellers. The signing of the MOU builds on a period of significant momentum for Ras Al Khaimah in China. The agreement, signed by Amanda Wang, Vice President of Group, and Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of Destination Tourism Development at RAKTDA, builds on the success of an existing partnership and sets the stage for the launch of transformative initiatives that will enhance Ras Al Khaimah's visibility, appeal and accessibility in China, one of the world's fastest-growing outbound travel markets. Harnessing Group's advanced digital ecosystem, data intelligence and consumer reach, the partnership will drive strategic marketing initiatives that engage Chinese travellers at every stage of their journey – from inspiration and planning to booking and on-the-ground experiences. Through immersive storytelling, targeted promotions, and exclusive travel offerings, Ras Al Khaimah will be positioned as the go-to destination for Chinese visitors seeking an authentic Arabian escape. Combining breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality, the Nature Emirate offers a one-of-a-kind blend of adventure, relaxation, and history, providing a compelling alternative to traditional Middle Eastern destinations. Since the partnership's launch in June 2024, Group has generated more than 17.5-million-page impressions for Ras Al Khaimah. The collaboration has been particularly impactful for Ras Al Khaimah's hospitality sector, with hotel bookings increasing by 22% in the second half of 2024, driven by targeted promotions and destination marketing campaigns. Highlighting the outstanding success of the partnership to date, Group honoured RAKTDA with its "Outstanding Strategic Partner of the Year" and "Best Overseas Partner of 2024" awards at its Global Partner Summit staged in December 2024. Iyad Rasbey, Vice President, Destination Tourism Development at RAKTDA, stated, "China is one of the fastest-growing source markets. The extension of our partnership with Group is an important step in our ongoing strategy to explore new growth opportunities. By combining our expertise in destination marketing with Group's market insights and digital influence, we will present Ras Al Khaimah to a broader audience, highlighting its heritage and Arabian hospitality." Amanda Wang, Vice President of Group, highlighted the shared vision with Ras Al Khaimah's unique appeal to Chinese travellers. "Ras Al Khaimah offers natural beauty, adventure, and cultural significance,' she said. 'We plan to enhance our digital capabilities with RAKTDA to create engaging stories for Chinese travellers. By boosting our marketing efforts and increasing Ras Al Khaimah's presence on our platforms, we aim to attract more visitors to explore this remarkable emirate.' As part of the next phase of collaboration, the partners will introduce a flagship Ras Al Khaimah Star Hub store on Ctrip – Group's primary travel booking platform for Chinese travellers – providing a dedicated virtual space for travel inspiration, promotions, and curated itineraries. RAKTDA is also enhancing the travel experience for Chinese tourists visiting the emirate, by offering language support and digital payment solutions. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) reported its strongest year ever in 2024, welcoming a record-high 1.28 million overnight arrivals, marking 12% growth in tourism revenues and a notable 15% rise in MICE visitors.
Zawya
05-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ras Al Khaimah, Trip.Com tie up to target Chinese travellers
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Group, a leading global travel services provider, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at ITB Berlin 2025 to launch a range of new initiatives designed to boost Ras Al Khaimah's appeal as a must-visit destination for Chinese travellers. The signing of the MOU builds on a period of significant momentum for Ras Al Khaimah in China. The agreement, signed by Amanda Wang, Vice President of Group, and Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of Destination Tourism Development at RAKTDA, builds on the success of an existing partnership and sets the stage for the launch of transformative initiatives that will enhance Ras Al Khaimah's visibility, appeal and accessibility in China, one of the world's fastest-growing outbound travel markets. Harnessing Group's advanced digital ecosystem, data intelligence and consumer reach, the partnership will drive strategic marketing initiatives that engage Chinese travellers at every stage of their journey – from inspiration and planning to booking and on-the-ground experiences. Through immersive storytelling, targeted promotions, and exclusive travel offerings, Ras Al Khaimah will be positioned as the go-to destination for Chinese visitors seeking an authentic Arabian escape. Combining breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality, the Nature Emirate offers a one-of-a-kind blend of adventure, relaxation, and history, providing a compelling alternative to traditional Middle Eastern destinations. Since the partnership's launch in June 2024, Group has generated more than 17.5-million-page impressions for Ras Al Khaimah. The collaboration has been particularly impactful for Ras Al Khaimah's hospitality sector, with hotel bookings increasing by 22% in the second half of 2024, driven by targeted promotions and destination marketing campaigns. Highlighting the outstanding success of the partnership to date, Group honoured RAKTDA with its "Outstanding Strategic Partner of the Year" and "Best Overseas Partner of 2024" awards at its Global Partner Summit staged in December 2024. Iyad Rasbey, Vice President, Destination Tourism Development at RAKTDA, stated, "China is one of the fastest-growing source markets. The extension of our partnership with Group is an important step in our ongoing strategy to explore new growth opportunities. By combining our expertise in destination marketing with Group's market insights and digital influence, we will present Ras Al Khaimah to a broader audience, highlighting its heritage and Arabian hospitality." Amanda Wang, Vice President of Group, highlighted the shared vision with Ras Al Khaimah's unique appeal to Chinese travellers. "Ras Al Khaimah offers natural beauty, adventure, and cultural significance,' she said. 'We plan to enhance our digital capabilities with RAKTDA to create engaging stories for Chinese travellers. By boosting our marketing efforts and increasing Ras Al Khaimah's presence on our platforms, we aim to attract more visitors to explore this remarkable emirate.' As part of the next phase of collaboration, the partners will introduce a flagship Ras Al Khaimah Star Hub store on Ctrip – Group's primary travel booking platform for Chinese travellers – providing a dedicated virtual space for travel inspiration, promotions, and curated itineraries. RAKTDA is also enhancing the travel experience for Chinese tourists visiting the emirate, by offering language support and digital payment solutions. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) reported its strongest year ever in 2024, welcoming a record-high 1.28 million overnight arrivals, marking 12% growth in tourism revenues and a notable 15% rise in MICE visitors. This success is a testament to the Emirate's strategic and sustainable growth vision to attract over 3.5 million annual visitors by 2030. -TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
05-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
RAKTDA and Trip.com Group bolster strategic alliance to promote Ras Al Khaimah as a premier destination for Chinese travellers
Berlin, Germany: Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Group, a leading global travel services provider, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at ITB Berlin 2025 to launch a range of new initiatives designed to boost Ras Al Khaimah's appeal as a must-visit destination for Chinese travellers. The signing of the MOU builds on a period of significant momentum for Ras Al Khaimah in China. The agreement, signed by Amanda Wang, Vice President of Group, and Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of Destination Tourism Development at RAKTDA, builds on the success of an existing partnership and sets the stage for the launch of transformative initiatives that will enhance Ras Al Khaimah's visibility, appeal and accessibility in China, one of the world's fastest-growing outbound travel markets. Harnessing Group's advanced digital ecosystem, data intelligence and consumer reach, the partnership will drive strategic marketing initiatives that engage Chinese travellers at every stage of their journey – from inspiration and planning to booking and on-the-ground experiences. Through immersive storytelling, targeted promotions, and exclusive travel offerings, Ras Al Khaimah will be positioned as the go-to destination for Chinese visitors seeking an authentic Arabian escape. Combining breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality, the Nature Emirate offers a one-of-a-kind blend of adventure, relaxation, and history, providing a compelling alternative to traditional Middle Eastern destinations. Since the partnership's launch in June 2024, Group has generated more than 17.5-million-page impressions for Ras Al Khaimah. The collaboration has been particularly impactful for Ras Al Khaimah's hospitality sector, with hotel bookings increasing by 22% in the second half of 2024, driven by targeted promotions and destination marketing campaigns. Highlighting the outstanding success of the partnership to date, Group honoured RAKTDA with its "Outstanding Strategic Partner of the Year" and "Best Overseas Partner of 2024" awards at its Global Partner Summit staged in December 2024. Iyad Rasbey, Vice President, Destination Tourism Development at RAKTDA, stated, "China is one of the fastest-growing source markets. The extension of our partnership with Group is an important step in our ongoing strategy to explore new growth opportunities. By combining our expertise in destination marketing with Group's market insights and digital influence, we will present Ras Al Khaimah to a broader audience, highlighting its heritage and Arabian hospitality." Amanda Wang, Vice President of Group, highlighted the shared vision with Ras Al Khaimah's unique appeal to Chinese travellers. "Ras Al Khaimah offers natural beauty, adventure, and cultural significance,' she said. 'We plan to enhance our digital capabilities with RAKTDA to create engaging stories for Chinese travellers. By boosting our marketing efforts and increasing Ras Al Khaimah's presence on our platforms, we aim to attract more visitors to explore this remarkable emirate.' As part of the next phase of collaboration, the partners will introduce a flagship Ras Al Khaimah Star Hub store on Ctrip – Group's primary travel booking platform for Chinese travellers – providing a dedicated virtual space for travel inspiration, promotions, and curated itineraries. RAKTDA is also enhancing the travel experience for Chinese tourists visiting the emirate, by offering language support and digital payment solutions. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) reported its strongest year ever in 2024, welcoming a record-high 1.28 million overnight arrivals, marking 12% growth in tourism revenues and a notable 15% rise in MICE visitors. This success is a testament to the Emirate's strategic and sustainable growth vision to attract over 3.5 million annual visitors by 2030. About Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) was established in May 2011 under the government of Ras Al Khaimah. RAKTDA aims to develop the Emirate's tourism infrastructure and establish Ras Al Khaimah as a world-class destination for leisure and business travel, creating sustainable investment opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. In order to achieve its goals, the Authority has a government mandate to license, regulate and monitor the Emirate's tourism and hospitality industry. | Facebook | X (Twitter) | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube Hashtag: #VisitRasAlKhaimah For any media enquiries, please contact: news@ About Group Group is a leading global travel service provider comprising of Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar. Across its platforms, Group helps travellers around the world make informed and cost-effective bookings for travel products and services and enables partners to connect their offerings with users through the aggregation of comprehensive travel-related content and resources, and an advanced transaction platform consisting of apps, websites and 24/7 customer service centres. Founded in 1999 and listed on NASDAQ in 2003 and HKEX in 2021, Group has become one of the best-known travel groups in the world, with the mission "to pursue the perfect trip for a better world". Find out more about Group here: Follow us on: X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
