An Introduction to Ras Al Khaimah
Approximately an hour’s drive from Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah has long been known for its beaches, mountains and desert. It is now one of the region’s most attractive real estate markets.
Multiple factors are fuelling this ascent, from the region’s first casino (Wynn Al Marjan Island) and other international hospitality brands to diverse beachfront residences, along with consistently high ROIs. This guide provides strategic insight on how to secure a world-class residential asset in a market that is more accessible than Dubai but rapidly evolving into a global luxury hub.
A Robust Business Environment
Ras Al Khaimah is an attractive alternative to Dubai and Abu Dhabi for established and emerging businesses. Its economy spans oil, tourism, real estate, manufacturing and mining.
Key advantages include:
• 100% foreign ownership
• No income tax
• Low corporate tax
• 100% capital and profit repatriation
• Golden Visa eligibility through investment
• Lower operating costs than many global financial centres
• Strong expansion potential
• Dedicated economic zones
• Strategic location between Europe, Asia and Africa
Holistic Economic Growth
Independent analyses project long-term sustainable growth:
• Estimated economic growth of 4% from 2024 to 2027
• A+ and A/A-1 sovereign ratings by Fitch and S&P
• Approximately 60% population growth by 2030
Ras Al Khaimah Vision 2030
Under Vision 2030, the emirate aims to position itself as a multi-sector powerhouse with the following targets:
• Real GDP growth of 4% annually
• 3.5 million annual visitors
• Tourism contributing one-third of GDP
• Foreign direct investment exceeding AED 45 billion
• Renewable energy generation exceeding 750 MW
• Improved life expectancy and liveability
• Recognition as a leading residential and investment destination
The Ras Al Khaimah Lifestyle
Ras Al Khaimah offers a calmer, more balanced lifestyle defined by nature, culture and leisure.
Nature:
• Beaches and mangroves
• Hajar Mountains
• Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak
• Pristine desert landscapes
Adventure:
• World’s longest zipline
• Bear Grylls Explorers Camp
• Hiking, rock climbing and off-road trails
• Desert safaris and water sports
Culture and History:
• Archaeological roots dating back to 5000 BCE
• Continuously inhabited for over 7,000 years
• Historic forts and heritage sites
Sports:
• Ras Al Khaimah Championship (DP World Tour)
• UAE Tour cycling race
• Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon
• Ras Al Khaimah Mountain Bike Race
Hospitality and Tourism
The region’s first casino, Wynn Al Marjan Island, is the cornerstone of Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism expansion and is expected to open in 2027.
• 28% CAGR since 2022
• Up to 5.5 million visitors by 2030
• A hotel supply gap of 7,500 keys by 2030
An Influx of Global Brands
Existing brands:
• Waldorf Astoria
• Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach
• InterContinental Mina Al Arab
• Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah
Upcoming luxury developments:
• Nobu Hotel, Restaurant and Residences (2026)
• Nikki Beach Resort and Spa (2027)
• W Al Marjan Island (2027)
• The Unexpected Al Marjan Hotel and Residences (2027)
• Hard Rock Hotel and Residences (2028)
Visitors and Measurable Impact
In Q1 2025, hospitality revenues increased by 6.9% year-on-year. A record 654,000 visitors arrived in Ras Al Khaimah during the first half of 2025.
55% of visitors were international tourists from:
• Russia
• United Kingdom
• Kazakhstan
• Poland
• India
This resulted in a 9% year-on-year increase in tourism revenue.
The Real Estate Market
Ras Al Khaimah is emerging as a premier luxury real estate destination driven by high returns, strong growth and attractive pricing.
• 25,000% growth in transactions over seven years
• 39% year-on-year price growth in Q1 2025
• 118% increase in transaction value in 2024
• Maximum ROI of 11.7%
• 14,000 new units planned between 2026 and 2029
Supply and Demand Outlook
• Projected residential supply by 2030: 59,500 units
• Estimated demand: 105,000 units
• Expected market gap: 45,500 residential units
Property Prices and Rental Yields
• Average apartment price: AED 1,684 per sq. ft.
• Average villa price: AED 1,145 per sq. ft.
• Capital appreciation during 2024: 20–30%
• Rental returns on Al Marjan Island exceeding 9%
The Golden Visa
• 10-year renewable residence visa
• Available for properties worth AED 2 million or more
• Applicable to ready and off-plan properties
• Family sponsorship allowed
Tax Environment
• No income tax
• No property tax
• No capital gains tax
• Corporate tax of 9% on profits above AED 375,000
Looking Ahead
Ras Al Khaimah is positioned to become the Middle East’s next luxury real estate hub. With Vision 2030, Wynn Al Marjan Island and strong government support, the emirate offers a rare opportunity for early investors.
The time to capitalise on Ras Al Khaimah’s exceptional growth potential is now.
*All data in this guide was accurate at the time of writing.
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