The Government of Ras Al Khaimah has announced the appointment of Phillipa Harrison as the new Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

Harrison, who previously served as Managing Director of Tourism Australia, brings with her decades of experience in shaping international tourism strategies across Australia and other global markets. In her new role, she will drive the Emirate’s ambitious vision to become the “Destination of the Future.”

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAKTDA’s Executive Committee, expressed confidence in the appointment. He said, “Tourism is at the heart of Ras Al Khaimah’s strategy, it is our fastest-growing sector and we’ve achieved remarkable milestones in a short period of time. Ms. Harrison brings with her a depth of knowledge and leadership experience, most recently with Tourism Australia, that gives us confidence in her ability to align with Ras Al Khaimah’s ambitious goals and strategic targets in the tourism sector.”

Sharing her thoughts, Harrison said, “I’m honored to join at such an exciting time. Ras Al Khaimah has already established itself as an international success story, and I look forward to unlocking even more growth in the years ahead.”

Her leadership comes at a time when Ras Al Khaimah is recording strong growth in tourism, with over 650,000 visitors in the first half of 2025. The Emirate is now working toward achieving its target of welcoming more than 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030, further strengthening its position as a leading sustainable tourism destination.