Ras Al Khaimah is rapidly solidifying its position as a premier tourist destination, and the start of 2026 is proving to be no exception. Hotels across the emirate are reporting exceptionally high occupancy rates, exceeding 90% in some establishments, a clear indication of strong demand and visitor confidence in the quality of services and diverse hospitality experiences offered. This success is a direct result of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority’s strategic efforts to promote the emirate as a world-class destination appealing to families, couples, and adventure seekers alike. The positive momentum is expected to continue, fueled by ongoing investment and a commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism: A Record-Breaking Start to 2026
Hotel managers are optimistic, citing the favorable winter climate, the variety of tourism products, the high quality of infrastructure, and the seamless integration of services as key drivers for these record-breaking occupancy rates. Special packages are already being planned to attract visitors during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr, further capitalizing on the growing interest in the destination. This proactive approach demonstrates the industry’s responsiveness to market trends and its dedication to maximizing tourism potential throughout the year.
Iyad Rasbeeh, Deputy CEO of Destination Tourism Development at the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, emphasized the direct positive impact of these high occupancy rates on the local economy. He stated that the figures reinforce the emirate’s competitive edge within the regional tourism sector, attributing this success to the diversity of offerings, superior infrastructure, and integrated visitor services. This holistic approach is crucial for sustaining long-term growth and attracting a wider range of tourists.
Visitor Numbers and Revenue Growth in 2025
According to data released by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, the emirate welcomed approximately 1.35 million visitors in 2025, representing a 6% increase compared to the previous year. Furthermore, the tourism sector generated a remarkable 12% growth in revenue. These statistics highlight the effectiveness of the emirate’s tourism strategy and its ability to attract and retain visitors, contributing significantly to its economic prosperity. The focus on diversifying the tourism product and enhancing the overall visitor experience is clearly paying dividends.
Filippa Harrison, CEO of the Authority, described 2025 as an exceptional year for Ras Al Khaimah. She highlighted the continuous enhancement of tourist experiences through a diverse range of events and the inauguration of new hotel projects. Crucially, she also pointed to the establishment of strategic partnerships with online travel networks in China, a key market for future growth. Expanding reach into emerging markets is a vital component of the emirate’s long-term tourism vision.
Hotel Sector Optimism and Strategic Planning
John Riad, General Manager of Hampton by Marriott Marjan Island, confirmed that the hotel “started 2026 strongly,” with initial indicators for the first quarter and the entire year being highly encouraging. He noted a surge in early bookings, increased inquiries, and a significant proportion of returning guests. “Our plans for this year are clear, and our operational strategies are designed to ensure a successful year, maintaining healthy and stable demand, particularly for leisure and family travel,” Riad explained. He stressed the importance of efficient demand management and delivering high-quality hospitality, rather than solely focusing on occupancy numbers.
Riad anticipates stable to positive performance during Ramadan, supported by a balanced mix of international guests and increased interest from local and Arab markets. The hotel will be offering a comprehensive range of Ramadan promotions, including a distinctive iftar experience featuring Indian cuisine alongside the traditional buffet. In line with Hampton’s global policy, suhoor will be provided free of charge to fasting guests, while iftar will be available at an additional cost.
Regarding the winter season, Riad added, “We expect strong performance during this period, consistent with the high occupancy levels the hotel is achieving. February to May sees a significant influx of guests eager to enjoy the mild weather and outdoor and beach activities. Based on previous years’ data and current booking patterns, we anticipate healthy and stable booking levels throughout the season.” He also observed a trend towards short-term and last-minute bookings, requiring flexibility in pricing, inventory management, and experience planning to ensure guest satisfaction.
Expanding Offerings and Catering to Diverse Needs
Cameron McNeill, General Manager of the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa – Mina Al Arab, echoed this sentiment, stating that the resort also began 2026 with strong momentum, with high occupancy rates reflecting the positive and growing performance of the emirate’s tourism sector as a whole. He attributed this to the increasing demand for destinations that combine natural beauty with comprehensive experiences.
McNeill explained that the resort anticipates a moderate start to Ramadan, with a noticeable increase in demand as Eid Al Fitr approaches, encompassing both room bookings and utilization of event spaces and restaurants. The resort plans to launch a series of special offers and packages specifically for Ramadan, with a particular focus on culinary experiences, including communal iftar meals and social gatherings in its restaurants and halls, alongside attractive offers on hotel stays.
He emphasized the continued strong momentum in occupancy and booking rates during the winter season, driven by the pleasant winter weather and the captivating natural landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah. McNeill noted a clear difference in booking patterns between international and domestic guests, with international visitors tending to plan longer stays in advance, often opting for all-inclusive packages that combine accommodation, dining, entertainment, and wellness activities, particularly during peak seasons and school holidays. Domestic guests, on the other hand, prefer shorter, more flexible bookings, such as weekend getaways, with a focus on unique dining experiences, seasonal events, and exclusive offers.
Ashraf Saleh, General Manager of the Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts Group, confirmed that the group had an exceptional start to 2026, achieving occupancy rates exceeding 90%, reflecting the growing appeal of Ras Al Khaimah as a preferred tourist destination. He also highlighted the strong performance of the group’s “Long Beach” camping site, which achieved its best January performance since its launch, solidifying its position as a leading provider of luxury camping experiences in the region.
Key Source Markets for Ras Al Khaimah Tourism
Data from the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority reveals significant growth in visitor numbers from key international markets. Russia remains the largest source of tourists, followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, Kazakhstan, and India. Direct air connectivity through Ras Al Khaimah Airport has also contributed to a substantial increase in visitors from Romania (65%), Poland (56%), Uzbekistan (47%), Belarus (30%), and India (25%). This diversification of source markets is crucial for building resilience and ensuring sustainable growth in the tourism sector.
In conclusion, Ras Al Khaimah is experiencing a remarkable surge in tourism, driven by strategic investments, diverse offerings, and a commitment to quality. The consistently high occupancy rates, coupled with increasing visitor numbers and revenue growth, demonstrate the emirate’s success in establishing itself as a leading destination. With ongoing development and a proactive approach to market trends, Ras Al Khaimah is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory and achieve its ambitious tourism goals. Explore the possibilities and plan your visit to experience the magic of Ras Al Khaimah firsthand.