Ras Al Khaimah and Oman signed a strategic partnership at WTM 2023 London for tourism development!
The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 7 to jointly initiate and promote tourism marketing initiatives between the Governorate of Musandam (Sultanate Oman) and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (United Arab Emirates).
The agreement was signed in London, UK between Raki Phillips, Director General of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Director General of OMRAN Group, at a signing ceremony held at the World Travel Market , one of the most influential annual global tourism exhibitions.
The MoU provides a formal platform for both parties to cooperate in initiatives aimed at attracting more international tourists, positioning Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam as important global tourism destinations in the Middle East.
The agreement will allow the leaders of both organizations to work together to create opportunities for travelers to visit both destinations, Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam, in one trip. The partnership between the destinations is a natural one, being only 90 minutes apart and sharing a common mountain range, the Hajar Mountains. Moreover, the combined cultural and historical connections will strengthen and enrich this unique collaboration.
This partnership includes the facilitation of transport between Musandam and Ras Al Khaimah, the visa process for international tourists wishing to visit both destinations and the development of joint tour packages.
Raki Phillips, Director General of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: "This agreement is based on a formidable synergy between Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam. We look forward to working together with OMRAN to mutually promote the destinations, which will not only highlight each area's distinct tourism offerings, but also increase awareness among international visitors of the Middle East's wide range of tourist attractions."
Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, General Manager of OMRAN Group, said: "We are very pleased to partner with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. This MoU emphasizes the essential role that tourism authorities play in promoting natural resources and cultural heritage. Through our joint efforts, we aim to create distinctive and innovative experiences for travelers around the world, thereby enhancing the appeal of our region."
Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam Governorate have a number of outstanding natural assets
Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam Governorate have a number of outstanding natural assets, offering tourists captivating attractions. These include the majestic Hajar Mountains and stunning fjords that Musandam Governorate is famous for.
As both destinations are located along the pristine shores of the Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean, international tourists can also enjoy an extensive range of water-related activities when visiting both destinations as part of this new partnership.
Be it diving and snorkeling, scenic Dhow cruises, dolphin watching, kayaking and water parks, Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam are set to offer unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler amid their stunning natural landscapes.
The two destinations also offer a diverse range of adventure experiences. This strategic partnership will focus on positioning Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam as leaders in the global adventure tourism market through joint marketing programs.
Ras Al Khaimah, known as the adventure hub of the Middle East
Ras Al Khaimah, known as the adventure hub of the Middle East, offers enthusiasts a number of adrenaline-filled experiences on Jebel Jais, the highest mountain peak in the UAE, such as Jais Flight, the world's longest zip line, or Jais Sledder , the longest bobsleigh track in the region, while Musandam recently set international records with the launch of the world's longest zipline over water. Together, the two destinations are poised to make a significant contribution to the global adventure tourism market.
In addition, both destinations boast an impressive heritage and rich history. Tourists can start their cultural foray by visiting one of Ras Al Khaimah's many sites, including four UNESCO tentative archaeological sites and the UAE's only Suwaidi Pearl Farm, then head to Oman and visit Khasab Castle and Telegraph Island, one of the famous historical sites in Musandam.
Overall, the new strategic partnership will provide travelers with an extraordinary experience that showcases the rich diversity of tourism offerings in the Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, making it easier than ever to explore the two destinations.