Ras Al Khaimah sees near-4% rise in tourists to 1.12 million

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) on Thursday announced that tourist arrivals to the emirate were up almost 4 percent to 1.12 million in 2019.

The authority also said hotels in Ras Al Khaimah reported revenue per available room (RevPAR) of $114.90, among the highest in the region.

This was reflected by the strong yearly occupancy rates, averaging at 74 percent, added RAKTDA.

Last year’s inbound growth was driven by a number of events such as the launch of the Jais Sky Tour, and the hosting of the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival, Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, Tough Mudder and the UAE Tour.

In addition, corporate activity and MICE participation further contributed to the growth in visitor numbers, a statement said.

Russia, India, Poland and Kazakhstan all saw double digit increases as tourist source markets compared to 2018 figures.

Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA, said: “2019 was a positive year for Ras Al Khaimah, as we saw increased footfall from key markets resulting in the overall arrival growth of almost 4 percent.

“Ras Al Khaimah is in the midst of its three-year destination strategy which aims to broaden its reach through increased segmentation. A key focus has been on higher yield visitors such as MICE delegates, as well as prioritising sustainable nature-based adventure and culture driven activities and experiences.”

RAKTDA is targeting 1.5 million visitors by 2021, with the emirate preparing to add 6,200 rooms to the 6,499 currently available over the next three years.