RAS AL KHAIMAH, UAE — Ras Al Khaimah is strengthening its position as one of the UAE’s leading leisure destinations after recording its strongest-ever first-half tourism performance in 2026, with more travellers choosing the emirate for short breaks, nature experiences and resort stays.
The emirate welcomed more than 670,000 visitors during the first six months of the year, supported by a significant increase in domestic tourism. Visitor numbers from within the UAE rose 47% compared with the same period last year, reflecting growing demand for nearby holiday experiences.
The surge comes as Ras Al Khaimah expands its tourism offering with new hotels, adventure attractions, improved transport links and major developments designed to attract both regional and international travellers.
The emirate’s growing appeal has been driven by its combination of mountain landscapes, beaches, cultural attractions and outdoor experiences, offering an alternative to traditional city breaks.
From hiking trails on Jebel Jais to luxury beachfront resorts on Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah has increasingly positioned itself as a destination for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation and family-friendly activities.
The emirate’s tourism authority said domestic travel played a key role in supporting the sector during a period when international travel patterns across the region faced disruption.
The RAK Moments domestic tourism campaign contributed to increased visitor activity, generating 224,000 hotel room nights and Dh104.4 million in room revenue during the second quarter of 2026.
The campaign attracted more than 127,000 additional visitors compared with the same period a year earlier, with promotions distributed through major travel platforms including Booking.com, Expedia and Wego.
New resorts expand RAK’s tourism appeal
Ras Al Khaimah is preparing to welcome new accommodation options as it continues developing its hospitality sector.
Rotana Ras Al Khaimah The Mangroves is expected to open during the third quarter of 2026, adding 258 rooms along Al Qawasim Corniche. The property will include event facilities and meeting spaces aimed at supporting leisure and business visitors.
A second opening planned for later in the year will bring visitors closer to the emirate’s mountain landscape.
SAIJ Mountain Lodge by Mantis is set to introduce a nature-focused hospitality experience on Jebel Jais, featuring activities such as guided hikes, wellness programmes, stargazing and outdoor experiences.
Existing resorts are also undergoing upgrades, including renovation work at Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island and selected areas of Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah.
Wynn Al Marjan Island prepares for 2027 opening
A major milestone for Ras Al Khaimah’s luxury tourism ambitions is the upcoming opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island, scheduled for 2027.
The resort is expected to introduce a new level of entertainment and hospitality offerings to the emirate, including 22 restaurants, lounges and dining concepts.
The development has also announced a partnership with immersive theatre company Punchdrunk to create a first-of-its-kind production in the Middle East and North Africa region.
The resort is part of a wider transformation of Al Marjan Island, which continues to attract investment in hotels, residential communities and leisure facilities.
Adventure tourism remains a key attraction
Beyond its beaches and resorts, Ras Al Khaimah has built a reputation around outdoor experiences.
Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain, continues to attract visitors with hiking routes, scenic viewpoints and adventure activities, including the world’s longest zipline, Jais Flight.
Future plans include additional premium experiences, including an astronaut training programme expected to launch in the second half of 2026 through a partnership involving Action Flight Aviation and BLINC Space.
The programme will include activities linked to commercial spaceflight preparation, including high-performance flight experiences and simulated astronaut training.
Transport upgrades aim to improve access
Ras Al Khaimah is also expanding transport infrastructure to support rising visitor numbers.
A new VVIP terminal at Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is under development and is expected to support private aviation growth as new hospitality projects come online.
The emirate is also working on improved public transport connections, including new transit stations linking key areas and tourism destinations.
Autonomous shuttle services are expected to begin commercial operations later in 2026 following earlier testing, while air taxi services are targeted for launch from 2027 as part of future mobility plans connecting Ras Al Khaimah with Dubai.
A destination preparing for the next decade
Alongside tourism projects, Ras Al Khaimah is developing new residential, commercial and entertainment districts to support long-term growth.
The coastal Marjan Beach development is planned as a major mixed-use destination featuring residential communities, hotels and leisure facilities.
The emirate has set a target of welcoming 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030, with tourism expected to remain a key contributor to economic diversification.
With new resorts opening, adventure experiences expanding and major attractions on the horizon, Ras Al Khaimah is positioning itself as a year-round destination for travellers looking beyond traditional UAE city breaks.
