Abu dhabi: The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is actively pursuing a comprehensive development strategy focused on economic diversification. This approach aims to bolster national performance by expanding non-oil sectors such as production, exports, logistics, tourism, and manufacturing in alignment with the 'We the UAE 2031' vision.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry reported significant growth in export activities during the first three quarters of 2025. This growth demonstrates the emirate's economic vitality and its ability to meet external demand through expanded trade partnerships across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Africa. The total value of goods exported by chamber members, supported by certificates of origin, reached approximately AED7.6 billion. The third quarter saw the issuance of 9,467 certificates, indicating stable production lines and sustained external demand.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia emerged as the leading importer of goods from Ras Al Khaimah, with goods valued at more than AED1.6 billion. Oman and Kuwait followed, with export values of AED211 million and nearly AED299 million, respectively. Iraq was fourth in terms of export value, with goods worth AED1.2 billion. Other key export destinations included Qatar, Bahrain, and Egypt, showcasing the emirate's strategic market diversification.
Mohamed Mosbeh Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the emirate's development vision, which prioritizes societal empowerment, institutional competitiveness, and sustainability. Investment in human capital, infrastructure, and institutions has attracted foreign investment and established a resilient economic system capable of adapting to global changes.
Free zones such as Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) significantly contribute to the emirate's industrial and commercial activities. Certificates of origin issued from free zones to the UAE local market amounted to 2,839, with goods valued at AED567 million. Ramy Jallad, CEO of RAKEZ, highlighted the emirate's integrated business environment, which attracts high-quality projects in manufacturing, advanced technologies, and clean energy.
The tourism sector in Ras Al Khaimah is undergoing significant transformation, becoming a key economic driver. Recent data from Stirling Hospitality Advisors indicates that the emirate hosted 1.28 million hotel guests in 2024, marking a 5.1 percent increase from the previous year. This growth reflects the emirate's rising appeal and diverse tourism offerings.
Ras Al Khaimah is poised for significant hotel expansion, with current accommodations at 8,300 rooms and plans to add 9,300 new rooms. This expansion supports the emirate's goal of attracting 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030. Real estate developers, led by Marjan Hospitality, are instrumental in this transformation, driving major projects on Al Marjan Island, RAK Central, and Jebel Jais.