In a groundbreaking initiative, seven major hospitality giants - Marriott International, Hilton, Accor, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Ennismore, Rotana, and Radisson Hotel Group have united to support Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism growth strategy. Their commitment aims to position the Emirate as a leading global travel destination, aligning with Vision 2030’s economic, social, and environmental sustainability goals.

High-profile meetings were held between His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, and His Excellency Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), alongside key hospitality leaders, including:

• Sandeep Walia, Chief Operations Officer, Middle East & Luxury, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International

• Federico J. González, Executive Vice Chairman, Radisson Hotel Group

• Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East and Africa, Hilton

• Duncan O’Rourke, CEO, Middle East, Africa & Asia-Pacific Midscale & Economy, Accor

• Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts

• Gaurav Bhushan, Co-CEO, Ennismore

• Philip Barnes, CEO, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation PJSC

During these discussions, each brand reaffirmed its expansion plans and pledged support towards boosting Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality sector. Their commitment reinforces efforts to triple the Emirate’s tourism economy by 2030 and generate over 20,000 new jobs.

Key Areas of Focus:

1. Tourism Growth: Driving economic expansion and positioning Ras Al Khaimah among the world’s fastest-growing travel destinations.

2. Sustainability Goals: Contributing to the Responsible RAK program, aiming for 10% electricity savings and increased reliance on solar power.

3. Global Brand Recognition: Enhancing Ras Al Khaimah’s visibility through top-tier media and international tourism rankings.

4. Community Development: Strengthening the Emirate’s livability and workforce opportunities.

H.E. Raki Phillips emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Tourism is the backbone of Ras Al Khaimah’s economy. Our vision is to increase tourism’s contribution to one-third of the Emirate’s GDP while creating a thriving, sustainable future for both visitors and residents.”

Currently, Ras Al Khaimah boasts 56 hotels and over 8,000 rooms catering to various segments, from luxury to family-friendly stays. The destination’s record-breaking performance in 2024, 1.28 million overnight visitors has set the stage for ambitious expansion. By 2030, the Emirate aims to welcome 3.5 million annual visitors, supported by an additional 7,500+ hotel keys from renowned global brands.

This collaborative pledge solidifies Ras Al Khaimah’s standing as a dynamic and sustainable tourism hub, setting new benchmarks for hospitality excellence in the region.