Ras Al Khaimah Experiences Remarkable Growth in Exports and Tourism

Post by : Mara Rahim

The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is making significant strides towards establishing a balanced and sustainable economy through the enhancement of production, exports, logistics, tourism, and manufacturing. This strategy supports the UAE's national objectives to diminish reliance on oil and aligns with the UAE 2031 vision. Recent statistics indicate that this approach is yielding positive outcomes across multiple critical sectors.

Data from the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry reveals a noteworthy increase in exports during the initial nine months of 2025. Goods exported by chamber members reached approximately AED 7.6 billion, reflecting robust demand from global markets. The third quarter witnessed the highest activity, issuing over 9,400 certificates of origin, a sign of steady production and growing international interest in products from Ras Al Khaimah.

Saudi Arabia remained the leading export destination, followed closely by Oman and Kuwait. Iraq claimed the fourth spot in export value, with Qatar, Bahrain, and Egypt also being significant markets. This diverse market coverage underscores the emirate's expanding trade partnerships and reduces dependence on any single country or region.

Officials have noted that investments in infrastructure, skilled personnel, and adaptable regulations have attracted foreign investment, bolstering a solid industrial foundation. Free zones, particularly RAKEZ, have played a crucial role, facilitating manufacturing, advanced technologies, and clean energy initiatives. Exports from free zones to the local UAE market have also shown remarkable growth.

Concurrently, tourism is proving to be a significant catalyst for economic advancement. Ras Al Khaimah received over 1.28 million hotel guests in 2024, demonstrating steady year-on-year growth. The emirate is gearing up for extensive hotel expansion, with plans for thousands of new rooms, primarily in the luxury sector.

Ras Al Khaimah aims to draw in 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030. Major real estate and hospitality projects, particularly on Al Marjan Island and Jebel Jais, are expected to support this ambition and bolster the emirate's status as a regional business and tourism nexus.