Message from the top: Raki Phillips, CEO, RAK Tourism Development Authority

Covid-19 is an issue affecting all destinations; however, it is inspiring to see nations coming together to support community wellbeing. Though times are challenging, we remain positive about the travel industry’s ability to manage and successfully emerge from this ever-evolving situation. We are closely monitoring the situation and work in compliance with governmental regulations to ensure that our visitors and employees remain safe. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority is also in constant dialogue with leisure and hospitality partners, ensuring highest levels of hygiene are maintained and that they comply with all advisories.

It is also vital to show stakeholders and businesses support during these challenging times, retaining important relationships and supporting partner teams and their employees wherever possible. Doing so now lays the groundwork for the recovery processes.

RAKTDA has unveiled a series of tourism support initiatives to complement government and local developer measures. These include waivers on tourism licences, tourism dirhams, licencing fees and fines, all within specific time frames. In addition to this is the dedicated financial incentives package and complementary participation in upcoming roadshows and events to boost awareness. It is especially important to prioritise the wellbeing and safety of employees. We do so via several initiatives including facilitating face-to-face contact through virtual meetings and webinars; signing everyone up to LinkedIn Learning; and offering various video courses taught by industry experts to expand their skillset.

The HR team converses regularly with employees to educate them on the current situation and what protective measures should be taken. Ongoing training also prepares team members to provide information and updates to partners and other stakeholders. With regards to operations, we keep an eye on the WHO, CDC and UAE federal authorities’ platforms for the latest developments, to tailor actions accordingly, and recommend that firms in the UAE do the same.

By coming together and following the federal directives, we can continue to prioritise the safety of our community through these uncertain times.