Ras Al Khaimah is rapidly emerging as a major UAE tourism destination, anchored by Jebel Jais (the UAE’s highest mountain). Here is the complete 2025 guide.
RAK Tourism Growth Story
Ras Al Khaimah welcomed 1.3 million tourists in 2023, growing at 15%+ annually. RAK Tourism Development Authority (TDA) is targeting 3 million visitors by 2030. RAK tourism appeal: Jebel Jais mountain experiences (UAE-first experiences), beach resorts (Ras Al Khaimah has some of the UAE’s best beaches), adventure tourism (hiking, kayaking, zip-lining), and heritage tourism (UAE’s oldest settlement areas are in RAK). Jebel Jais highlights: Jebel Jais Flight (world’s longest zip line, 2.83km), Jebel Jais Mountain Road, Via Ferrata climbing routes, Jebel Jais Sky Gazebo, and stargazing (RAK’s low light pollution vs. Dubai).
RAK Hospitality Investment Opportunities
The RAK government has been actively attracting hotel and resort investment. Key ongoing projects: Rixos Bab Al Bahr, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, InterContinental RAK, and the planned Wynn Al Marjan Island (UAE’s first licensed casino resort — Wynn Resorts, opening estimated 2027). Wynn Al Marjan: will be the first casino in the UAE, on Al Marjan Island in RAK. This is a major tourism transformation that could significantly increase RAK’s international visitor numbers. Investment in hospitality, F&B, and entertainment adjacent to Al Marjan Island is strategically positioned ahead of the Wynn opening.
Setting Up a Tourism Business in RAK
For businesses targeting RAK tourism: RAK Tourism DED mainland licence (for hospitality and tourism activities in RAK), RAKEZ free zone (for professional services, tech, and advisory businesses supporting the tourism sector), Al Hamra Free Zone (adjacent to Al Hamra marina and resort area — relevant for marine and leisure businesses). RAK TDA registration: tourism operators in RAK must register with RAK TDA (similar to DTCM in Dubai). Advantage of RAK for tourism entrepreneurs: lower commercial rents and property prices vs. Dubai (30-50% cheaper), growing tourist volume, and less competition than Dubai’s saturated hospitality market.