Following the signing of the memorandum of understanding on borderless travel, traveling between the United Arab Emirates and Oman is now far less difficult and takes significantly less time.
An agreement was signed between the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) with the purpose of enhancing tourism between the Governorate of Musandam in Oman and Ras Al Khaimah County.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) citizens and visitors who are looking for water adventure sports frequently visit Musandam, which is located on the border with Ras al Khaimah.
Increase tourism across destinations
With the signing of this memorandum of understanding, both organizations intend to increase cross-destination tourism by working together on marketing initiatives, enhancing transportation links, providing favorable visa arrangements for international tourists, and developing one-of-a-kind tourism packages. This project is supported by the geographical proximity of Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam, our common Al Hajar Mountain range, and our deeply founded cultural and historical ties, which makes this collaboration particularly relevant, according to Raki Phillips, the Chief Executive Officer of the RAK Tourism Development Authority.
He expressed his hope that new opportunities would be created for travelers from all around the world to enjoy both places in a more seamless manner.
World Travel Market London
Additionally, the agreement was inked at the World Travel Market London in the month of November 2023.
Obtain a visa online
Despite the fact that residents of the United Arab Emirates are required to submit an application for a visa online before arriving in Oman, and that they also have the option of acquiring a visa upon arrival, a large portion of our work is focused on making border crossings more convenient. During an interview with Khaleej Times, Phillips stated that the purpose of this project is to streamline travel procedures, making it easier and less time-consuming for people living in both countries to travel between our territories.
In addition, he stated that one of the primary objectives of the agreement is to make it simpler for tourists from other countries to visit both locations "for the duration of a single journey."
He made the following statement: "This is being supported by the development of favorable visa arrangements." Additionally, a unified tourist visa for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was recently authorized, which will further facilitate travel among various Gulf member states once it is implemented. This will be of major advantage to travelers and will boost tourism throughout the area, especially in Ras Al Khaimah.
Kids go free drive
Phillips also disclosed that there will be a 'kids go free' offer included in the summer campaign for 2024 that will be launched at the ITB Berlin travel trade event in March. This is in accordance with the emirate's objective of enhancing its reputation as a destination that is welcoming to families.
In addition to that, he mentioned that the majority of hotels in Ras Al Khaimah have a policy that allows youngsters to stay free of charge.
The city of Ras Al Khaimah is an excellent vacation spot for families. Our comprehensive collection of resorts provides accommodations that are suitable for families. These accommodations include rooms that are specifically intended for families, a range of amenities for children, clubs that are fun for children, a large number of swimming pools, splash zones, and expansive beachfronts. In addition to our resorts that are excellent for families, Ras Al Khaimah provides a diverse selection of activities that are appropriate for families. He went on to say that the activities ranged from watersports to the most exciting adventures in the highlands and desert.
Increasing the rate of growth in 2024
In 2023, the Northern Emirate had a record 1.22 million overnight arrivals, which was an increase of 8% compared to the numbers recorded in 2022. This increase was further supported by a strong 24 percent year-on-year increase in the number of overseas tourists.
When Phillips was asked about the future of tourism in the UAE, he stated, "Looking ahead to 2024, our goal is not just to maintain this growth but to accelerate our efforts towards attracting over three million visitors by 2030, contributing to our long-term vision for tourism in the emirate of Dubai."
The so-called "nature emirate" is expanding its hotel supply in order to meet the increased demand, and it is putting accessibility and sustainability at the center of its expansion strategy.
