RAK govt appoints Phillipa Harrison as new CEO of RAKTDA

Image: RAKTDA

The government of Ras Al Khaimah has appointed Phillipa Harrison, former MD of Tourism Australia, as chief executive officer of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

Harrison will lead efforts to position the northern emirate as the “Destination of the Future”, bringing decades of experience across global markets including Australia.

“Tourism is at the heart of Ras Al Khaimah’s strategy, it is our fastest-growing sector and we’ve achieved remarkable milestones in a short period of time,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Qasimi, chairman of RAKTDA’s Executive Committee.

“ Miss Harrison brings with her a depth of knowledge and leadership experience, most recently with Tourism Australia, that gives us confidence in her ability to align with Ras Al Khaimah’s ambitious goals and strategic targets in the tourism sector.”

Commenting on her appointment, Harrison said: “I’m honored to join at such an exciting time. Ras Al Khaimah has already established itself as an international success story, and I look forward to unlocking even more growth in the years ahead.”

RAKTDA focused on attracting 3.5 million tourists by 2030

The emirate, which welcomed a record 650,000 visitors in the first half of 2025, aims to attract more than 3.5 million tourists annually by 2030.

Read: RAK is surging ahead in real estate and tourism, say industry leaders

Harrison’s leadership will support Ras Al Khaimah’s plans to strengthen its position as a sustainable tourism destination.

Read: Raki Phillips steps down as RAK Tourism chief for Accor post