Why Dubai Residents are Moving to Ras Al Khaimah

A significant number of Dubai residents are relocating to Ras Al Khaimah. They are being drawn by a range of factors that take advantage of the emirate’s status as a calmer city than Dubai, but one that is set to become the next global luxury hub.

Affordability

Ras Al Khaimah is still a luxury market on the rise and lavish homes are available for more attractive prices than in Dubai. The standard of luxury remains the same, however, with endless sea views, diverse residences and stellar amenities on show.

Lifestyle accoutrements like schooling and leisure destinations remain equally prestigious while retaining lower buy-ins. Residents can still enjoy access to Dubai via an hour’s drive, while watching Ras Al Khaimah’s own culture, dining and nightlife scenes grow.

Rapid Luxury Real Estate Growth

The attractive property prices are not expected to last, however. The upcoming Wynn Al Marjan — the region’s first-ever casino — and the subsequent influx of world-renowned brands from Fairmont to Ritz-Carlton have resulted in a burgeoning property market, with new and diverse residences of the kind that first put Dubai on the luxury world’s radar.

Ras Al Khaimah’s property prices surged by 39% YoY in Q1 2025. Looking ahead, nearly 14,000 new residential units, including over 5600 branded ones, are set to enter the market by 2029.

This presents an enticing, long-term opportunity for residents and investors. Ras Al Khaimah offers significant potential for capital appreciation and high ROIs at a lower capital outlay and with equally convenient payment plans when compared to Dubai.

Natural Wonders and Relaxed Living

What will remain constant is the emirate’s stunning natural beauty, with a diverse ecosystem that includes vast desert expanses, pristine beaches and soaring mountains.

This is a slower lifestyle as opposed to Dubai’s hustle and bustle. From sparse traffic and world-class dining to beachfront walks and the world’s longest zip line at the U.A.E.’s highest mountain (Jebel Jais), residents can envelop themselves in quieter surroundings than Dubai.

Ease of Business

Ras Al Khaimah also presents a compelling business environment. Through free zones like RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone), many residents have found it easier and more cost-effective to set up and operate businesses here than in Dubai. With lower overheads and streamlined processes, Ras  Al Khaimah is becoming a thriving hub for startups and SMEs.