RAKTDA demonstrates commitment to Europe

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has further strengthened its position in Europe with a multi-city roadshow in the UK and Germany that brought together more than 370 tour operators and travel agents.

In a bid to attract 1.5 million visitors by 2021, increased emphasis has been put on growing further awareness of the breadth of offer in key European markets.

The European roadshow covered key cities including Hamburg, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, London, Birmingham, Liverpool and Edinburgh to meet industry representatives and introduce Ras Al Khaimah’s diverse and spectacular beach, desert, mountain and adventure offering.

Held at iconic venues such as the Emirates Stadium in London and Edinburgh Castle, the roadshow allowed participants an opportunity to discover Ras Al Khaimah’s unique proposition and its tourism products via presentations, networking events and interactive quizzes.

‘Unique combination’

Haitham Mattar, RAKTDA’s chief executive officer, said: “With a unique combination of authentic Arabian hospitality, pristine beaches and outdoor adventure pursuits, Ras Al Khaimah has a great appeal to holidaymakers from all over Europe.

“We have seen a significant growth in the number of visitors from Europe over the last couple of years, and therefore, our ongoing roadshow programme is a great vehicle to tell the story of the accessible Arabian hospitality and year-round sunshine we offer visitors from this region and beyond.”

“As we look towards our goal of 1.5 million visitors by 2021 and three million by 2025, it is essential to personally connect with travel professionals from our source markets to give them a real flavour of everything Ras Al Khaimah has to offer our visitors.”

Germany continues to be the leading international source market with 83,531 visitors in 2018 and the UK was the third largest source market with 63,054 visitors.

Ras Al Khaimah’s attractiveness amongst international tourists continues to be strong – accounting for 62 per cent of overall visitors in 2018 – attributable to its 7,000 years of fascinating history, authentic Arabian culture and heritage, high-profile adventure attractions, magnificent natural landscapes, and exclusive luxury and wellness experiences.