India 3rd largest source of H1 tourists in RAK

Ras Al Khaimah recorded a 23% increase in visitors from India during the first six months of 2016 compared to the previous year, according to the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

Growth during 2016 saw India as the third largest international source market for Ras Al Khaimah, up from fourth position last year.

"Our new brand positioning emphasises Ras Al Khaimah's natural assets, luxurious indulgence, range of activities for different types of travellers and authentic Arabian heritage and culture - our diverse destination pillars resonate well with Indian travellers," said RAKTDA CEO Haitham Mattar.

"The constant increase in visitor arrivals from India is the direct result of strategic in-market trade missions and industry partnerships to boost market awareness of Ras Al Khaimah's MICE and leisure offerings, highlight the destination's diverse tourism proposition and forge smart partnerships with potential buyers," added Mattar.

"We've engaged close to 500 of India's leading trade stakeholders to promote the destination as an ideal choice for the country's business and leisure travel trade and these activities will continue in the second half of 2016."

RAKTDA projects further growth from the Indian source market as part of its target to attract one million visitors to the emirate by the end of 2018.

"We're seeing a surge in domestic and international interest in Ras Al Khaimah as a multi-purpose destination for leisure, business, events and weddings," added Mattar.