Ras Al Khaimah hotel supply set to double amid tourism boom: Report

Ras Al Khaimah’s hotel sector is poised for explosive growth, with its supply expected to double within two years, according to a new report by Stirling Hospitality Advisors.

The emirate’s tourism boom, highlighted by a 5.1 per cent year-on-year increase in overnight visitors to 1.28 million in 2024, is driving unprecedented expansion in its hospitality and real estate sectors.

The fourth edition of the RAK Investment Pulse report reveals that Ras Al Khaimah’s hotel pipeline will add over 7,500 new keys by 2027, bringing the total inventory to over 14,600 rooms, compared to the current 7,144. An additional 1,000 rooms are expected by 2030.

Seventy-one per cent of the new supply will be in the five-star category, solidifying the emirate’s position as a luxury destination.

Ras Al Khaimah is attracting international hotel brands

Ras Al Khaimah is attracting over 15 international hotel operators across all segments, including new entrants such as Wynn, Millennium, Radisson Red, Ushuaia, and Rove Al Marjan. This influx of new brands reflects the diversification of Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality landscape.

The report also highlights a significant expansion in the branded residences sector, with 16 projects set to deliver approximately 5,600 units by 2029.

“With tourism at an all-time high, Ras Al Khaimah’s hotel sector is poised for significant expansion,” the report states.

The research provides insights into market performance, supply trends, and investment opportunities, including a shift in market leadership among hotel operators.

Accor surpassed Hilton in 2024 due to strategic rebranding initiatives, fuelled by the conversion of Al Marjan Resort into Pullman and the rebranding of Hilton Beach Resort into Rixos Al Mairid.

Ras Al Khaimah’s strategic vision aims to attract 3.5 million annual visitors by 2030, exceeding initial targets, as the emirate continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure and attract international brands.

Read: Why RAK’s Al Marjan is set for a big ‘Wyn