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Bombardier will be attending the Air Expo Abu Dhabi, a global aviation exhibition & conference taking place in the capital of the UAE. It provides the latest insights, trends, and innovations in aviation and aerospace. The event brings together industry professionals, government representatives, and other stakeholders at the highest level. Come discover our brand identity, learn more about our exceptional aircraft and see our products up close.
https://ow.ly/gYFR50Tcg6p
Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has launched the first sea-cage aquaculture project, that uses artificial intelligence (AI) tools, in Abu Dhabi.
The project aims to reduce pressure on wild fisheries by helping to produce up to 100 tonnes of fish annually.
Six floating sea cages consist of various fish species, which have already seen 168,000 Safi Arabi, 122,000 Gabit, 100,000 Shaam, and 90,000 Sheri fish released.
The AI technology will monitor the quality of both the fish and the water.
The project will also help with environmental issues by addressing climate change impacts and ensuring sustainable sea-based aqua culture in the UAE capital.
https://ow.ly/Y6wB50Tcg59
Fleetwood, Rose and Scott commit to Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship
Olympic Silver Medallist Tommy Fleetwood will bid for further success on the 2024 Race to Dubai when he tees it up at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship at Yas Links, from November 7-10.
The Dubai resident will be joined in Abu Dhabi by Major champion and former World Number Ones Adam Scott and Justin Rose, who have also qualified for the penultimate event of the 2024 season.
The fourth Rolex Series event of the season, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship assumes a new position on the Tour’s Global Schedule as part of the season-ending ‘DP World Tour Play-Offs’.
Fleetwood is no stranger to success in the United Arab Emirates having claimed three of his seven DP World Tour victories to date in the country. A two-time winner of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in 2017 and 2018, he also won the season-long Race to Dubai in 2017 and earlier this year took the title at the inaugural Dubai Invitational.
Last month Fleetwood claimed the Silver Medal for Great Britain at the Paris Olympics, sharing the podium with World Number One Scottie Scheffler and Major winner Hideki Matsuyama at Le Golf National, the same venue where he made his Ryder Cup debut in 2018.
https://ow.ly/PvFz50Tcg1o
Get ready to bring in the New Year in style because Lionel Richie is coming to town.
Performing for one-night-only, the star will have you swaying all night long as he performs at Atlantis the Palm on Tuesday December 31, 2024.
Saying Hello to the Dubai crowds once again, Richie will be serenading guests of the hotel’s New Year’s Eve Gala dinner, and tickets are now on sale.
Prices start at Dhs4,500 per person, so your evening won’t be on a budget, but you will be treated to free-flowing bubbly, a luxury buffet (lobster and caviar included) and a 30-piece band.
https://ow.ly/L0o250TceXo
Re Share The Cove Rotana Resort Ras Al Khaimah
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The ultimate daycation starts here.
Step into a day of excitement and enjoy our two infinity pools, 600-meter-long beach, and a mouthwatering lunch from Cinnamon Restaurant.
AED 150 net per person- Weekday
AED 200 net per person- Weekend
For more details, please call +971 50 463 7216 or email [email protected]
Re Share Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
is at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
· Ras al Khaima, United Arab Emirates ·
Seaside sophistication at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah✨
Don’t miss our Summer Sale—book directly through the link below.
https://ow.ly/uVMQ50TbPZH
The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) 2024 starts today at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi with thousands of visitors expected.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club, ADIHEX combines Emirati cultural traditions and heritage with forward-looking features that open new business opportunities, engage Emiratis of all ages, and showcase adventure and outdoor lifestyles.
Organised by the Emirates Falconers’ Club in strategic partnership with ADNEC Group, this world-leading exhibition with over two decades’ heritage runs from 31 August to 8 September 2024 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Whether they are hunting and equestrian enthusiasts or looking to immerse themselves in the region’s cultural heritage, visitors to ADIHEX can explore cultural exhibitions, breathtaking traditional performances, and live historical displays that will educate and inspire.
As the largest event of its kind in the MENA region, ADIHEX will host 11 distinct cultural sectors including equestrian and falconry, hunting and shooting, camping, hunting tourism and safari, fishing and marine sports, and arts and crafts along with many others from the entire spectrum of sporting and outdoor activities.
As the heart and soul of ADIHEX, the Main Arena will offer an unmissable family-friendly attraction offering a wide range of multi-cultural, educational, and interactive shows that are suitable for all age groups. Each day's action-packed agenda will include an extensive variety of dramatic and exciting shows, workshops, beauty competitions, auctions and much more. An Arena highlight will be the Falcon Auction, which shows the UAE’s pioneering role in the captive-breeding of falcons as part of the country's commitment to conservation and preservation of its wildlife. Held both in-person and online, his unique auction offers an exclusive experience for both local and international participants.
Visitors can also join the ADIHEX Knowledge Hub for a wide range of live demonstrations and workshops with leading experts covering a range of fascinating subjects relating to falconry, equestrianism, desert physiognomy, maritime exploration, desert survival skills, the natural environment, Emirati culture and heritage, and safety and security.
In addition to the spectacular shows, exhibits and demonstrations on offer, visitors can also take advantage of many other options to network with industry experts, explore and buy merchandise and equipment, and connect with industry-leading manufacturers and suppliers.
Don’t miss out on the unforgettable event! Tickets are now available online for those wishing to attend the largest edition so far since this prestigious exhibition was launched more than twenty years’ ago. To obtain tickets, visitors should visit the ADIHEX website and select from the range of packages listed.
https://ow.ly/uM6W50TbPiF
The ultimate celebration of sport, music, and entertainment, the Emirates Dubai 7s, returns in 2024 with its largest line-up yet. This three-day extravaganza promises an unparalleled experience with world-class international athletes, A-list headliners, and top-notch hospitality, as highlighted in a recent announcement.
This year's festival, themed as the ‘weekend of the year,’ will take place just before the UAE National Day public holiday, from Friday, November 29 to Sunday, December 1, at the Sevens Stadium in Dubai.
Tickets and Packages Now Available
Tickets for the Emirates Dubai 7s are now available on the official website. Attendees can choose from a variety of packages, including day passes, full weekend passes, and exclusive all-inclusive hospitality packages that grant access to the brand-new Sunroom for a VIP festival experience. Standard tickets are priced at AED 425, with full weekend passes available for AED 550. Additionally, reserved seating and hospitality packages can be purchased directly through the website.
A Global Sports and Entertainment Phenomenon
Set to draw over 80,000 attendees from the UAE and around the world, the Emirates Dubai 7s is the first leg of the HSBC SVNS 2024-2025 series, cementing its status as a landmark event in the UAE's annual calendar. Continuing its tradition of excellence, the festival will feature participation from 128 countries across five sports, including rugby 7s, netball, cricket, fitness, and padel tennis. Last year's edition saw over 6,000 participants and 560 teams from 32 countries.
Exciting Sports Competitions and More
Festival-goers can anticipate thrilling sports action, including the ever-growing cricket tournament presented by Dulsco, which attracts amateur teams from across the UAE and the Middle East. The netball tournament, sponsored by Nakheel Community Management, will also take center stage in the newly renovated 4-court netball zone, offering ample entertainment for players and fans alike. The third edition of the fitness competition, WODON3, will showcase mixed teams competing in strength and fitness challenges, while the popular padel tennis tournament, Rebound, invites enthusiasts to compete on custom-built courts.
A Star-Studded Line-Up and Family Fun
Beyond the sports, this year's Emirates Dubai 7s promises an incredible line-up of global and local A-list performers across three iconic stages: Rugby Rocks, Beats on 2, and Frequency on 8. Although the full 2024 line-up is yet to be announced, past festivals have featured stars like Kylie Minogue, Craig David, Artful Dodger, and Becky Hill. Families are also in for a treat, with free entry for children under four and the largest kids' zone to date, filled with festival-themed activities. Numerous food and beverage outlets, including Pret a Manger and Costa, will also be available, with more options to be announced soon.
Premium Hospitality Experience at the Sunroom
For a luxurious experience, guests can enjoy the action from the all-new Sunroom, featuring up to two days of all-inclusive VIP treatment, unlimited F&B options, and a premium view of Pitch 1 from the North Grandstand. It's the perfect spot for entertaining clients, teams, or groups.
Anticipation Builds for the Biggest Emirates Dubai 7s Yet
Emirates Dubai 7s Festival Director Mathew Tait expressed his excitement: “We are thrilled to announce that tickets are on sale today for the biggest-ever ED7s, with the festival kicking off over the UAE National Day weekend. With even more on offer this year—from cricket to padel to headline artist performances—we look forward to welcoming back sports fans, fitness enthusiasts, music and festival lovers, and of course, the whole family for a full festival of exciting activities. This year is about experiencing it all and making the most of the long weekend.”
World Rugby Sevens General Manager Sam Pinder added: “The Emirates Dubai 7s has a long legacy of producing an incredible spectacle both on and off the pitch, engaging both local and international fans throughout the weekend."
https://ow.ly/1HPs50TbPcI
DAMAC Properties expands into Ras Al Khaimah with ‘Shoreline’ luxury project
The 17-storey beachside residence features 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units and duplexes
Real estate developer DAMAC Properties has announced the launch of its inaugural project in Ras Al Khaimah – Shoreline by DAMAC – located on the shores of Al Marjan Island.
Situated in the prime location of Island 4 on Al Marjan Island, the 17-storey luxury 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments and duplexes will offer a five-star resort experience, featuring direct access to the beach.
The beachfront residence is being designed in collaboration with contemporary art icon Vincent Faudemer’s luxury collection, BABOLEX, bringing a harmonious blend of funky and chic detailing to create a modern aesthetic with comfortable living for residents. Shoreline by DAMAC marks the developer’s second collaboration with BABOLEX, following the Coral Reef by DAMAC development in Dubai. https://ow.ly/EbKe50Tbr6r
Debuting in 2020, Go Flower is one of the Dubai’s most called-upon luxury florists. From decorating your home with the season’s finest blooms to bringing an event space to life with little flowery bursts, it stands as an unrivalled spot for an arrangement of all sorts. So, why not refresh your home this weekend with a bouquet of blooms?
https://ow.ly/GFUl50TbqRN
Beating its superior Italian aura through DIFC, the undeniable Dubai hotspot Roberto has just launched a tantalising Sorrento Brunch this weekend. On every Saturday from 12.30 to 4pm, sink into a creamy plate of buffalo mozzarella, juicy calamarata pasta and boozy calippos for a mid-weekend hype session. Extending its pleasure past food and drinks, the brunch after party also launches with a refreshing limoncello spritz to keep the fun going.
https://ow.ly/CvGi50TbqRq
Located on Dubai’s Bluewaters island, SHI boasts a sophisticated, gourmet menu that blends Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Think braised duck leg, salmon tataki, black cod, sushi, and a cocktail menu that both your taste buds and your IG feed will thank you for. The restaurant’s low, moody lighting, and prime location for an evening stroll across the bridge into the Marina, mean that this place also makes for a great date night spot. Book now via email here: [email protected].
https://ow.ly/kN6K50TbqR2
Back for its latest season, the Arab Fashion Council and Dubai Design District kick off their joint Dubai Fashion Week venture this weekend. From internationally acclaimed fashion houses like Roberto Cavalli to regional superstars like Dima Ayad and Mrs Keepa, this medley of fantastical creative expression takes the city’s avant-grade nature to uncharted territory. This Sunday marks the beginning of the seasons with La Moda Italiana inaugurating the Spring/Summer 2025 showcase.
https://ow.ly/MtoK50TbqQU
Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi hosted an exclusive preview event on August 29 ahead of the launch of the world’s first Ferrari-themed Esports Arena which is set to officially open to the public in September 2024. The award-winning theme park celebration featured VIPs, media, influencers, and other distinguished guests.
The event had guests on the edge of their seats with thrilling live entertainment, including performances by a Pit Crew Dance Troupe, a comedic mechanic, a mesmerizing magician, and fantastic music by a DJ. The arena’s decor featured two striking Ferrari car displays, a wind tunnel, and large LED screens, immersing guests in the Esports atmosphere. As guests entered the Ferrari World Esports Arena, they were captivated by the complex details, the exhilarating driver seats, and the evident excitement that filled the space, in addition to the iconic Ferrari red branding that covered the arena.
Faisal Al Nuaimi, General Manager of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, expressed his excitement and said “We are thrilled to welcome guests in September 2024 to experience the world’s first Ferrari-themed Esports Arena right here on Yas Island. This groundbreaking attraction showcases cutting-edge technology and innovative simulators, providing our guests with an unparalleled racing experience. We take great pride in bringing this advanced technology to our park and allowing visitors to unleash their inner racer.”
F1 fans and adrenaline junkies can immerse themselves in the ultimate racing experience at the Ferrari-themed Park. The arena boasts 20 Gran Turismo simulators, including 14 for adults and 6 designed for younger guests, ensuring fun for the whole family. Adding a further element of thrills, there are three F1 simulators that allow participants to feel the rush of driving a real Ferrari race car on an F1 Grand Prix circuit. Additionally, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi remains committed to inclusivity with two GT simulators specifically designed to accommodate people of determination.
Theme Park entry tickets will include access to the GT simulators until year end, while the F1 simulators are available at an additional fee starting from AED 60 per race.
Racing enthusiasts can visit the world’s first Ferrari-themed Esports Arena in September to experience the new attraction firsthand, experiencing the thrill of F1 drivers, right in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
Located on Yas Island, Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is right next to the ultimate adventure hub CLYMB™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. It is also just minutes away from the region’s largest indoor theme park Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the world’s first and only Emirati-themed waterpark and the world’s largest indoor marine-life theme park SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
For more information please visit: https://ow.ly/1V2B50TbqKQ.
Ras Al Khaimah Goes After Indian Tourists, Dubai’s Biggest Source Market
The northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has its eyes on India for inbound tourism. That on its own isn’t new – just about everyone wants to tap into India’s growing middle class. But in doing so, RAK could chip away at Dubai’s largest source market.
Ras Al Khaimah brought in 618,600 tourists in the first half of this year, up 3.4% year-on-year. India was the number 6 source market: 4% of those travelers came from India, or 12,582.
Speaking Thursday on local UAE radio Dubai Eye, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority chief Raki Phillips said India has immense potential, as does wider Asia.
https://ow.ly/xHur50TawiF
Experience the magic of Afrobeats Music live in Abu Dhabi this November with a captivating performance at Afrobiano Fest. Witness a powerful symphony as talented musicians bring beloved songs to life on stage. This cultural exchange through music offers a unique opportunity to enjoy traditional tunes. So, if you’re a fan of cultural music, this event is a must-see and we’re here with the deets.
The UAE’s largest Amapiano and Afrobeats Music Festival, Afrobiano, will light up Yas Beach on November 2 with a stellar lineup. The highlight? A performance by superstar S.N.E., a beats master who has drawn inspiration from South African music for over a decade! His popular tracks will surely get everyone grooving, even if they’re new to this genre of music.
Afrobeats, a vibrant mix of jazzy rhythms and dynamic percussion from Nigeria, and Amapiano, a deep-house hybrid with funky basslines from South Africa, will be at the heart of the festival. These descriptions only scratch the surface of the genres’ energy and appeal. In fact, the previous season of this fest hosted unforgettable performances by DJ Karri, Ntosh Gazi, Phantom and Rexus. And it’s not surprising that the audience kept dancing to their groovy beats.
Afrobiano isn’t just a music festival; it’s a celebration of culture, rhythm, and community. As the beats of Amapiano and Afrobeats fill the air, you’ll find yourself swept up in a shared experience that transcends borders. The sandy shores of Yas Beach will transform into a vibrant dancefloor where every step, sway, and smile connects you with the energy of the crowd. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to this genre, Afrobiano offers something unforgettable for everyone.
So, don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of music and culture!
When: November 2, 2024
Where: Yas Beach, Abu Dhabi
https://ow.ly/z5U150Tas3P
The Emirates Group is proud to celebrate the contributions of Emirati women, and the vital work they do to advance excellence across aviation and travel in the UAE. Watch the video that highlights the diverse careers of talented Emirati women across the Emirates Group.
Emirati women are forging their career paths across a variety of business functions at the Emirates Group and building the foundations for a talent pipeline to support the next generation of aviation professionals. Approximately 38% of the Group’s Emirati workforce consists of women, and in the last financial year, the organisation welcomed a record number of Emirati women to its workforce. This further reinforces the Emirates Group’s commitment to integrating Emirati women in the UAE’s growing aviation sector, where they are empowered with the right skills, competencies and expertise, allowing them to thrive and reach their full potential.
The Emirates Group also marked another milestone this year, achieving 20% growth over the previous year for the number of Emirati women appointed in leadership roles. Today, more than 200 Emirati women hold leadership positions in the organisation, contributing to growth across a gamut of business functions. In March 2024, the Emirates Group announced the promotion of five Emirati female leaders to senior executive roles in key Human Resources and Commercial Support departments.
From senior executives to outstation managers and even heads of departments, the Group continues to equip Emirati women with industry-leading resources to hone their leadership skills and grow their career prospects. Over the last 20 years, the Emirates Group has provided mentorship and training programmes for Emirati female professionals to boost their professional growth and career mobility with access to leadership programmes including the Rolls-Royce and Airbus Leadership Programmes, GE Aviation Programme, among others. Emirati females in leadership positions at the Emirates Group also have the opportunity to enrol in the INSEAD Women Leaders Programme, empowering them to lead with impact and create lasting professional change through their leadership journey. More than 70 Emirati women have completed one or more of these programmes in the last 12 months. Last year, Emirates also sponsored three Emirati female employees to pursue their postgraduate education abroad in three of the top 100 ranked universities worldwide.
In the last year, the Emirates Group also inked a number of strategic partnerships with UAE-based and international organisations including Nafis, Microsoft, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and PwC Academy to deliver bespoke training and development programmes for the Group’s Emirati workforce. Through these programmes, Emirati women are provided additional tools and resources that support their career advancement and advance their workforce contributions.
The Emirates Group is also a launch partner of Aurora50’s women’s networking initiative, NOORA and is a signatory of the UAE Gender Balance Council’s pledge, reinforcing its commitment towards female representation and advancement in the organisation.
Emirati women also have opportunities to contribute beyond their job roles, with 55% of the Emirates Group’s Emirati Youth Council consisting of women who hail from different departments across Emirates and dnata businesses. Their work with the Youth Council provides broader exposure to ground-breaking discussions and activities that align with the Emirates Group’s core values, further inspiring their peers.
As an employer of choice, the Emirates Group continues to invest in the UAE national workforce by creating jobs for those seeking careers in travel and aviation. The Group’s Rehlaty strategy aims to attract, train, develop and retain Emirati talent, in line with the UAE’s Emiratisation agenda. As part of this strategy, the Emirates Group has also launched a series of internship, high school and graduate programmes that have successfully onboarded hundreds of Emiratis including ambitious and skilled women over the last two years. UAE nationals interested in careers at the Emirates Group can visit: https://ow.ly/z6uH50TarLG
In Conversation with Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA)
As CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), Raki Phillips is responsible for driving the tourism sector, along with the economic and social prosperity of the Emirate. He is also an award-winning tourism veteran and a serial entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience working with Ritz-Carlton, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International (FRHI), and Universal Studios Orlando. In this ‘In Conversation With’ Raki shares with us his approach to success in the travel sector, key trends, insights into the unique and beautiful Emirate and much more.
Please describe a typical working day for you.
A typical day for me is anything but typical, and that’s one of the things I love most about my role. For a destination that is progressing so rapidly, such as Ras Al Khaimah, there’s always something exciting happening. Most days are a blend of overseeing the development of new tourism projects, forging strategic partnerships that enhance our connectivity, and collaborating with our stakeholders on initiatives to elevate our tourism offerings and bring more visitors to Ras Al Khaimah.
A significant aspect of my role involves guiding Ras Al Khaimah’s transformation into a destination of the future. This involves not just driving tourism numbers but ensuring our growth is sustainable and meaningful for both visitors and residents. For example, securing significant investments like the USD $3.9 billion deal with Wynn Resorts to develop a 1,500-plus-key integrated resort which is currently under construction on Al Marjan Island, is a project that I’m particularly proud of, as it not only represents a significant step forward in elevating our tourism offering, but is also a key driver of job creation and quality of life in the emirate.
My mornings often begin with a review of key tourism metrics and a meeting with my leadership team to ensure we’re maintaining our trajectory. We’re working towards a goal of increasing tourism’s contribution to the economy from 5% to one-third by 2030, and every day brings us closer to that milestone. Of course, fostering a positive work culture within RAKTDA is just as important. Leading a diverse team from 24 countries, I make it a point to cultivate an environment where creativity and collaboration thrive, and I am very proud to see that this has not gone unnoticed. This year RAKTDA was recognized as a Great Place to Work® for the third consecutive year. In 2023, we were ranked 4th in the Best Workplaces in the Public Sector for the GCC, adding to a series of other prestigious awards.
You have been recognised by Forbes Middle East as one of the ‘Top 100 Travel & Tourism Leaders’ in 2023 (congratulations!). Was the industry always one that you wanted to work in? And how do you maintain a positive and innovative approach to your work life?
Thank you! My journey into the hospitality and tourism industry has been quite the adventure. The moment that set me on this path came when I was walking through New York City and saw a giant Emirates airline billboard on the Flatiron Building, promoting Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. That was when I knew I wanted to be in the UAE. At the time, I wasn’t sure about my career path. My father had suggested I pursue a trade, but a close friend encouraged me to consider the hotel business, believing my personality was well-suited for it. That led me to an internship at Universal Studios in Orlando, which became the foundation of my career in tourism. From there, I moved into roles with hotel brands like Ritz-Carlton and Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, each step deepening my zeal for the industry. When the opportunity came to join RAKTDA as CEO in 2019, it felt like everything had come full circle. Maintaining a positive and innovative approach comes naturally when you’re passionate about what you do and in an environment that provides endless opportunities, such as Ras Al Khaimah.
In 2022, you and your team led the destination to achieve the highest-ever visitor numbers at 1.13 million. What were the fundamental principles underpinning this success and how do you plan to build upon this?
2022 was quite a year! Not only did we achieve record-breaking visitor numbers, reaching 1.13 million, but we also exceeded pre-pandemic levels, demonstrating the resilience of our destination. Our success was largely due to our agility and responsiveness during a volatile year, and our community-minded approach that shaped a welcoming and attractive experience for visitors.
With a focus on diversification and enhancing Ras Al Khaimah’s connectivity, we continued this success into 2023, welcoming 1.22 million overnight arrivals—an 8% increase over 2022. This was also rooted in several strategic partnerships and targeted campaigns that showcased Ras Al Khaimah’s unique attractions.
Another driver of our growth has been investing in our tourism infrastructure and the expansion of our hospitality portfolio. In 2023, we welcomed new hotels like InterContinental Mina Al Arab, followed by the opening of the Anantara Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort earlier this year. These great additions have further enhanced the appeal of our destination. Looking ahead, we are doubling our hotel inventory with a pipeline of 21 properties set to add around 7,000 keys in the next few years. This includes projects by some of the best brands in the industry such as Nobu Hotels, JW Marriott, The Westin, Hilton, W Hotels, Nikki Beach and Wynn Resorts.
Preserving Ras Al Khaimah’s heritage and authenticity has been a priority, for you and your team. This must be quite challenging whilst also promoting tourism within the Emirate. Please tell us how you strike the perfect balance.
Balancing heritage preservation with tourism growth in Ras Al Khaimah requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. Our focus is on two key areas: cultural conservation and sustainable development. These elements work together to maintain Ras Al Khaimah’s unique cultural identity as we continue to grow.
In terms of cultural conservation, we have developed long-term plans to preserve the integrity and develop 20 of our heritage sites as key tourist attractions. For instance, Al Jazeera Al Hamra, a historic pearl diving village and one of the four sites on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List in Ras Al Khaimah, is being meticulously restored and managed to become a key component of our tourism offering. Moreover, empowering the local community of Emiratis to participate in the tourism sector is an equally important step that we are taking to ensure equitable distribution of tourism’s economic benefits and provide more authentic experiences for visitors. By integrating these elements into our tourism strategy, we’ve found a balance that drives growth while preserving the cultural heritage that makes Ras Al Khaimah unique.
And please tell us more about Ras Al Khaimah’s approach to eco-tourism?
Sustainability and environmental stewardship are at the very core of how we approach tourism development in Ras Al Khaimah. Created in partnership with EarthCheck, a global leader in sustainability certification, our sustainable tourism strategy integrates economic, environmental, cultural, and social considerations into our development framework for shaping a vibrant tourism eco-system for the future. Under this program, Ras Al Khaimah stands out as one of the few destinations globally with a thoughtful and holistic sustainable tourism policy. The EarthCheck Sustainable Destination Silver Certification, which we were the first in the region to receive earlier this year, is testament to this commitment with audits revealing remarkable progress in areas like energy efficiency, waste management, and greenhouse gas reduction. Furthermore, through our ‘Responsible RAK’ program, also created with EarthCheck, we’re ensuring that all tourism businesses and hotels are aligned with our sustainability goals and ESG objectives.
We have also applied a measured, purpose-driven approach to new hotel developments and are continuously expanding our nature-based experiences to meet the growing demand for eco-conscious travel. We’re particularly excited about Saij, A Mantis Collection Mountain Lodge, which is set to open in early 2025. This sustainable retreat will provide 70 luxury lodges, offering a peaceful escape that’s deeply connected to the natural environment.
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is a bit of a hidden gem of a holiday destination – boasting a beautiful natural landscape that promises visitors adventure and culture. What can visitors expect from a holiday here and what type of traveller is RAK best suited to?
Ras Al Khaimah truly offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty and a diverse range of activities that cater to all types of travellers. One of our standout attractions is Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, where visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor activities ranging from thrilling to soft adventure. These include everything from hiking and camping to the more adrenaline-pumping Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline. We also have other great activities including Jais Sky Tour, a series of six exhilarating ziplines stretching 5km; Jais Sledder, the region’s longest toboggan ride; and the first Bear Grylls Explorer Camp in the region offering survival courses and outdoor activities led by expert guides.
Nature enthusiasts can also explore the 1,235-acre Al Wadi Nature Reserve, a protected area teeming with desert wildlife, through activities like nature drives, horseback riding and falconry lessons. For those looking to immerse themselves in traditional Bedouin hospitality, desert camps provide an authentic experience with camel rides, starlit dinners, and live entertainment.
For a taste of local culture, Dhayah Fort and Al Jazeera Al Hamra provide glimpses into the rich history of the Emirate, while the Suwaidi Pearls farm offers a fascinating look into the region’s pearl diving heritage.
If relaxation is what you’re after, our Emirate boasts 64km of coastlines dotted with world-class hotels and beach resorts, perfect for a relaxing holiday under the sun. The majority of our hotels and resorts offer a range of amenities that are perfect for families, from kid’s clubs and waterparks to babysitting services and watersports.
How does Ras Al Khaimah differ from the other Emirates’ holiday destinations?
Ras Al Khaimah stands out for its incredibly diverse natural landscapes which include pristine beaches, vast desert dunes, lush mangroves and the majestic Hajar Mountains—all within a short distance of each other. We are known as the “Nature Emirate” due to this variety which allows visitors to experience everything from mountain adventures to seaside relaxation in one destination. Our hotels offer expansive open spaces and some of the longest private beaches in the country, which is why we are the number one staycation or shortcation destination domestically. Residents across the Emirates often choose Ras Al Khaimah for its tranquil and laid-back atmosphere.
7,000 years of history dating back to the Bronze Age adds another layer to Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal. Visitors can explore a great number of ancient forts and historical sites, which offer insights into the emirate’s past. This deep connection to history gives visitors a unique and authentic cultural experience. To put it simply, it’s the ideal destination for those looking to experience the UAE’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
What is your top tip for a first-time visitor to Ras Al Khaimah?
For first-time visitors, my top tip is to embrace the diversity of experiences that Ras Al Khaimah has to offer. Start your day by exploring the Emirate’s natural beauty with a hike on Jebel Jais or a nature drive at Al Wadi Desert Nature Reserve. The calm and serenity of these areas give you a true sense of the untouched landscapes that define Ras Al Khaimah. You can also explore Ras Al Khaimah from above in a hot air balloon with ActionFlight or a light sport aircraft tour at the Jazira Aviation Club. After connecting with nature, shift gears into some of the amazing adventure activities on Jebel Jais or delve into the local culture by visiting the Suwaidi Pearls farm and one of our heritage sites like Al Jazeera Al Hamra or Dhayah Fort. These are perfect spots to discover rich history of Ras Al Khaimah. Finally, wrap up your day by catching the sunset from one of the many beachfront spots along our coastline. By mixing nature, culture, and relaxation, you’ll get a real taste of what makes Ras Al Khaimah such a special place to visit.
What are the key industry trends you anticipate for the luxury travel market over the next five years?
The luxury travel market is set for some exciting shifts over the next five years, driven by a few key trends that are already making an impact. One of the biggest is the demand for hyper-personalized and immersive experiences. Today’s luxury travellers aren’t just looking for high-end accommodations—they want unique journeys tailored to their interests. This could include custom-designed wellness programs or exclusive cultural experiences.
Sustainability is also a major focus. Eco-conscious guests are increasingly drawn to destinations that prioritize responsible practices, not just environmentally but also in preserving cultural heritage and local traditions. Alongside this, slow travel—spending more time in one place to truly connect with it—is gaining popularity.
Finally, spontaneous and solo travel is on the rise, particularly among younger generations who value flexibility and last-minute adventures that focus on experiences over traditional luxury. In Ras Al Khaimah, we’re embracing these trends, ensuring our offerings are personalized, sustainable, and deeply immersive to meet the evolving desires of today’s travellers.
Luxury is highly subjective – what does it mean to you personally?
For me, true luxury is about meaningful experiences that offer a deep sense of connection—whether to nature, culture, or oneself. In our fast-paced world, the greatest indulgence is often the time to slow down and fully immerse in an experience without distractions.
Over the next five years, I anticipate that the luxury travel market will continue to evolve towards more personalized and sustainable experiences. Travelers are increasingly seeking authenticity and are more conscious of their environmental impact. This shift will drive demand for eco-luxury accommodations and bespoke travel experiences that allow guests to connect deeply with the local culture and environment. This kind of richness can be found in the simplicity of a quiet moment on a secluded beach, where the only sound is the waves meeting the shore. It’s also present in the care and attention to detail that go into crafting an unforgettable journey, where every element is thoughtfully curated to create a sense of comfort and ease.
Authenticity is another key aspect. It’s not just about opulence, but about experiences that feel genuine and connect you to the essence of a place. Whether it’s an encounter with local culture or a stay at a resort that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, the goal is to create memories that linger long after the moment has passed.
Finally, what is your life motto?
My life motto is “aim big, work hard, stay humble”. I believe that hard work pays off. Setting ambitious goals that push boundaries and inspire growth is great, but it’s the hard work, the dedication, and the relentless pursuit of those goals that truly make a difference. Along the way, it’s important to stay humble, recognizing that success is often a collective effort and that there’s always more to learn and achieve. Humility keeps you grounded, reminding you to appreciate the journey, the people you meet, and the lessons you learn along the way.
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