The authority launched its first three-year destination strategy in 2016 outlining the vision and mission for tourism in the emirate, with the goal of attracting one million visitors to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) by 2018. The emirate has exceeded these targets with a reported 1,072,066 visitors from domestic and key international markets choosing to stay in Ras Al Khaimah during 2018.

The authority reported a 10 percent growth in visitors compared to 2017, led by the UAE domestic market which continues to generate 38 percent of overall visitors. Germany continues to be the leading international source market with 83,605 visitors, followed by Russia, with 83,531 visitors - up by a significant 17 percent on 2017. The third largest source market was the UK, with 63,054 visitors, up 11,5 percent; India was fourth with 62,325 visitors, up 22 percent; rounding out the top five was Kazakhstan with 27,168 visitors, a growth of 28 percent.

One of Ras Al Khaimah’s key milestones in 2018 was the launch of Jebel Jais Flight - the world’s longest zipline, which has welcomed over 25,000 flyers since opening 12 months ago. This put Ras Al Khaimah on the map, breaking the world record and strengthening the emirate’s credentials as the fastest growing adventure tourism destination in the region.

The emirate further increased its appeal for day trippers, staycationers and holidaymakers with the opening of a Viewing Deck Park at the top of Jebel Jais featuring seven viewing decks overlooking the Arabian Gulf.