If you believe a recent quality-of-life study, the emirate
of Ras al Khaimah (RAK) is really a pretty nice place to live.
The study is a collaboration between the Ras al Khaimah Tourism
Development Authority (RAK-TDA) and Nielsen, the consumer research
firm.
The new study is the first of its kind – RAK-TDA commissioned
research initiatives to look at the overall quality of life for RAK residents,
with an eye toward the global World Happiness Report, in which the UAE ranks 28th
out of 156 countries.
In the study, 1,500 people were interviewed across 35 nationalities in
different parts of Ras al Khaimah.
The study found certain aspects of life in the emirate
connected to positive responses of the study. For example, 91 percent of respondents
said they believed their city is safe to live in and 79 percent expressed
satisfaction with their work/life balance.
Other positive aspects of the study
included 82 percent indicating state-of-the-art medical facilities are available to
them, and 74 percent touting government services, as well as 80 percent talking positively
about the location of Ras al Khaimah and its connection to the rest of the
country.
“The emirate offers a peaceful alternative to the hustle and
bustle of other cities, providing good value for money and an enviable
lifestyle.” Ras Al Khaimah TDA CEO Haitham Mattar said in a press
release. “Access to beautiful beaches, nature, mountains and desert in an
authentic Arabian setting is a draw for expatriates, residents and tourists
alike.”
Mattar elaborated on his response to the study
results in an e-mail interview.
“The figures speak
for themselves, and we are delighted to see that Ras Al Khaimah is well on
track to contribute to the UAE’s position within the World Happiness Report.”
Mattar told Gulf News Journal. “Our tourism efforts not only focus on
attracting visitors, but we always ensure that our strategies will benefit
local residents, whether it is improvement of public infrastructure or
boosting the emirate’s economy through successful tourism tactics, ultimately
offering more job opportunities for residents. We are working with government
entities and private stakeholders to ensure a high standard is maintained and
highlighted improvements are addressed.”
Mattar also talked about new initiatives and offerings for
local travelers – one is a collaboration with Seawings Lifestyles, a premium
seaplane operator.
“Visitors to Ras Al Khaimah are now able to enjoy
an even more luxurious break in the emirate, choosing from a number of packages
to enjoy the ultimate staycation.” Mattar said. “The partnership means that we
can offer visitors an extraordinary experience of Ras Al Khaimah from start to
finish, suiting those looking for indulgent stays, whether they are seeking
culture, wellness or adventure.”
In describing what’s in store for visitors, Mattar cited
other summer attractions that enhance the quality of life in Ras al Khaimah,
including the Al Marjan Tent and unique dining options, the appeal of local
beaches and services to keep guests connected to what’s happening in football
with available broadcasts of games around the world.
Also, Mattar said, a “majestic” mountain area of Jebel Jais
offers a unique destination for visitors.
“It is a key component of our summer promotions,
appearing in our marketing, advertising and PR campaigns,” Mattar said. “Offering
a cooler atmosphere due to the height of the mountain, Jebel Jais is popular
for hikers, drivers looking for scenic routes, cyclists and those simply
looking to become one with nature and culture.”
