Ras Al Khaimah records 14% rise in tourist for Q3 of 2015

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAK TDA) recently announced a 14% increase in visitor numbers for Q3 of 2015 compared to 2014.

According to recent statistics, the authority welcomed nearly 200,000 visitors in its third quarter.

Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority said: “These figures are extremely encouraging as we work towards our target of one million visitors by end of 2018. We continue to nurture growth from our top five source markets, including UAE, Germany, UK, Russia and India. As the destination gains global appeal, we plan to steadily diversify our source markets through strategic global partnership with leading industry stakeholders, repositioning the emirate.”

Compared to 2014, hotels in the emirate reported significant growth in total revenues of AED 36.7 million (US$ 10 million), up by 22% on Q3 2014. There was a 14 % increase in occupancy rates, up from 51% to 58% in 2015. The emirate also recorded an increase in room revenues of 31% to AED123.7m (US$33.7m) with a 36% increase in revenue per available room to AED 289.91 (USD 78.93) and average daily rate growth of 19% on Q3 2014. Finally, significant growth was also recorded in food and beverage revenues of AED 67.9 million (US$18.5m), up by 10% on Q3 of 2014.

“As the emirate continues with its expansion plans to meet ambitious growth targets, we continue to diversify our offering through developing retail, dining, cruise, entertainment, and MICE facilities,” said Mattar.

Year-to-date the UAE remains a key source market for Ras Al Khaimah at 49%, showing continued sustainable growth. Germany remains the number one international inbound market with the UK moving up to second place overtaking Russia for international visitors. Russia remains strong at 4.6% whilst India shows signs of steady growth at 4.3%