Ras Al Khaimah is one of the UAE’s fastest-growing emirates – a destination defined by natural beauty, commercial opportunity and an outstanding quality of life. Home to more than 400,000 residents from 150+ countries, it is a dynamic, multicultural emirate that attracts businesses, investors and families seeking long-term stability and opportunity.
 
With dependable governance, a strong economic base and a commitment to sustainable development under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the emirate has built a reputation as a secure, forward-looking destination for investment.
For Marjan, Ras Al Khaimah’s master developer, this foundation provides the platform to deliver transformative mixed-use destinations that support the emirate’s economic growth and strengthen its reputation as a leading tourism destination.
 
Today, Ras Al Khaimah is a destination where growth is planned, sustainable and purposeful. It is an emirate moving forward with confidence.

Ras Al Khaimah at a glance

400,000

Population in 2024

650,000

Forecast population by 2030

US$12bn

GDP 2024

6.7%

GDP growth in 2024 (Fitch)

A+
A+ (Fitch), A/A-1 (S&P):

Credit Ratings

1.28m

International visitors in 2024

12%

YoY tourism revenue growth in 2024

3.5m

Forecast for overnight visitors by 2030

80km

of coastline, including 68km of beaches

1,934m

Height of Jebel Jais, the UAE tallest peak

1,000+

archaeological sites

4

UNESCO Tentative List sites

#1

global city for expats “to get started abroad” (2024)

Sources: Fitch, S&P, RAK Government Media Office, RAKTDA

A Connected Gateway Between East and West

Ras Al Khaimah’s location is central to its appeal. Positioned at the northern tip of the UAE, the emirate sits at the crossroads of major global trade routes and is within four hours’ flying time of one-third of the world’s population.

 
 

Air Connectivity

The emirate is served by Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, which continues to expand its international reach. Its proximity to Dubai International Airport – the world’s busiest international air hub – further enhances global connectivity.

Maritime and Trade Access

Saqr Port, one of the world’s largest dry bulk ports, plays a pivotal role in supporting large-scale trade flows across the region. Together, the emirate’s port, airport and motorway network create a highly efficient logistics ecosystem.

A Seamless Place to Do Business

Combined with the UAE’s efficient regulatory and judicial systems, Ras Al Khaimah offers international businesses straightforward market access and a secure, predictable operating environment.

BUSINESS & CONNECTIVITY

100%

foreign ownership and repatriation of profits

0%

personal income tax

50,000+

businesses operating in RAK

30,000+

companies within RAKEZ

Direct air routes

across Europe, India, Central Asia and the GCC

Saqr Port:

75M+ tonnes cargo handled annually

Sources: RAK Government Media Office, RAKTDA

Strategic Advantages

A Unique Tourism Destination, Delivered by Marjan

Tourism is central to Ras Al Khaimah’s economic development. In 2024, the emirate welcomed a record 1.28 million visitors, supported by 12% year-on-year growth in tourism revenues and a 15% rise in MICE visitors. 

Marjan plays a central role in this transformation. As the master developer behind the emirate’s most ambitious destinations – including Al Marjan Island and Wynn Al Marjan Island, the UAE’s first integrated resort – Marjan is helping elevate Ras Al Khaimah’s global profile and expand its hospitality offering.

The emirate’s tourism appeal is also shaped by its natural beauty and heritage. Visitors can explore dramatic mountains, pristine beaches, mangroves, terracotta deserts, archaeological sites and locations listed on the UNESCO Tentative List. Adventure and wellness tourism continue to grow, anchored by experiences on Jebel Jais.

Ras Al Khaimah is also the first destination in the Middle East to achieve EarthCheck Silver Status, underscoring its commitment to Responsible Tourism and environmental protection.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

1.28m

visitors in 2024

+12%

annual tourism revenue growth (2024)

+15%

annual MICE growth (2024)

56
hotels

7,770+ keys

Responsible Tourism: First EarthCheck Silver-certified destination in the Middle East

 

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Expat Lifestyle & Liveability

Ras Al Khaimah is consistently recognised as one of the world’s most attractive small cities for expatriates. In 2024, InterNations ranked it the #1 global city “to get started abroad”.

 

The emirate’s appeal is shaped by:

  • High quality of life
  • Safety and stability
  • Attractive cost of living
  • Strong education and healthcare infrastructure
  • A welcoming multicultural community
  • Diverse living environments across Marjan’s masterplanned communities

 

Marjan’s developments – including Al Marjan Island, RAK Central and Marjan Beach – offer a choice of waterfront, urban and family-friendly neighbourhoods, each supported by excellent amenities and extensive green spaces.

Lifestyle & Liveability

#1

globally for expats “to get started abroad” (InterNations 2024)

12400,000

residents from 150+ nationalities

103

schools and multiple universities

Masterplanned communities

in waterfront, mountain and urban environments

1,000+

heritage and archaeological sites

Sources: RAK Government Media Office, InterNations