As practicing Muslims ended the Ramadan holiday
at Eid al-Fitr, communities around the world enjoyed feast days and
celebrations and started the process of getting things back to normal after
the fast season.
At the same time, the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah (RAK) saw amazing
growth in visitor traffic and hospitality demand during Eid al-Fitr.
Officials from the Ras al-Khaimah Tourism Development
Authority (RAKTDA) said July 24 that the emirate saw over 10 percent growth in
tourism and lodging during Eid, compared to numbers from the same time last
year. An estimated 16,000 guests visited Ras al-Khaimah during the holiday, with over
30,000 guest nights.
Hotel occupancy in the emirate was over 85 percent.
“Ras al-Khaimah has positioned itself as a destination
of choice for those across the globe and these results are a strong
indication of the appeal of the emirate for travelers,” RAKTDA CEO Haitham Mattar
said in a press statement.
The report also provided a breakdown of the RAK
tourism markets, showing that over half of all guests during Eid al-Fitr were from inside
the UAE. Other major areas of tourist origin included India, Egypt, Germany and
the U.K.
In a recent interview with
the Gulf News Journal, Mattar talked about why there is so much growth in the area.
“During the past 12 months, the team at RAKTDA has been
attracting new strategic partnerships with major international airlines and
tour operators.” Mattar said. “Alongside this, we have effectively implemented
strong joint marketing campaigns in a number of our key and emerging markets, which
have already begun to materialize in increased visitor numbers.”
Calling RAK a safe and
beautiful year-round destination for sun and beach, Mattar said the RAKTDA is
still doing its best to develop new value for guests.
“We are ramping up our efforts to
position the destination … with active adventurers, cultural explorers and
wellness seekers among our target segments globally.” Mattar said.
To take advantage of all of the new tourism interests,
Mattar said RAKTDA is looking in all sorts of global markets. Citing golf
courses, water sports and other available activities, Mattar said the emirate
continues to attract both local traffic and visitors from all around the globe.
“There are numerous water sports and activities available
across the emirate that enable visitors to get closer to our marine life
including the sea turtles and sting rays.” Mattar said.
There’s also a mountain area featuring Jebel Jais, the UAE’s
tallest mountain, for more outdoor challenges and recreation, as well as other
types of vistas.
“(There’s opportunity) for travelers and residents looking for outdoor
adventures and diverse scenery at significantly cooler temperatures than at sea
level, and incredible views of the stunning Ras al-Khaimah landscape,” Mattar said. “In
addition, visitors can enjoy the facilities of resorts that cater to all
budgets and ages – with relaxation and pampering and beachfront facilities
considered five excellent value for money.”
