In a groundbreaking move for the region, seven prominent global hotel groups have pledged their support to Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism development plans, reinforcing the Emirate’s vision as a future-focused destination.
Key hospitality figures, including leaders from Marriott International, Hilton, Accor, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Ennismore, Rotana, and Radisson Hotel Group, met with 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 the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. These discussions culminated in a signed commitment to advancing the growth of the Emirate’s tourism sector.
The hospitality executives in attendance included:
- Sandeep Walia, Chief Operations Officer, Marriott International
- Federico J. González, Executive Vice Chairman, Radisson Hotel Group
- Guy Hutchinson, President, Hilton
- Duncan O’Rourke, CEO, Accor
- Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Gaurav Bhushan, Co-CEO, Ennismore
- Philip Barnes, CEO, Rotana Hotel Management
Each pledged their support towards Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism growth, aligning with the Emirate’s Vision 2030. This Vision focuses on sustainable economic, societal, and environmental development, aiming to elevate the tourism sector to contribute one-third of the Emirate’s GDP and create over 20,000 jobs by 2030.
Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, expressed that the commitment from these industry giants further reinforces the vision of driving sustainable development while enhancing the quality of life in Ras Al Khaimah. “Tourism remains the backbone of Ras Al Khaimah’s economy, and we are on track to meet our target of welcoming 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030.”
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The pledge highlights four key focus areas for hospitality leaders:
- Tourism Growth: Triple the size of the tourism economy by 2030, positioning Ras Al Khaimah among the fastest-growing global destinations.
- Sustainability: Support Ras Al Khaimah’s sustainability goals, contributing to energy savings and renewable energy targets.
- Global Brand Recognition: Promote Ras Al Khaimah as a leading tourism destination worldwide.
- Thriving Community: Contribute to the livability of Ras Al Khaimah, making it a desirable place to visit, live, and work.
Currently, Ras Al Khaimah boasts 56 hotels and resorts with over 8,000 rooms, spanning from luxury to family-friendly options. With a projected growth of 7,500+ additional hotel rooms, the Emirate is on track to meet its ambitious tourism targets, following a successful 2024 that saw record-breaking arrivals of 1.28 million overnight visitors.
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