India, third largest source of tourists: RAK

Ras Al Khaimah recorded a 23 per cent increase in visitors from India during the first six months of 2016 compared to the corresponding January-June period last year, according to the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

The positive growth trend during 2016 ranks India as the third largest international source market for the UAE's most northern emirate - up from fourth 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 Haitham Mattar, CEO, RAKTDA.

In-line with the emirate's international promotional strategy, RAKTDA recently attended July's MICE India and Luxury Travel Congress (MILT) in Mumbai, the latest stop in a series of roadshows and familiarisation trips with Indian travel trade partners in the first six months of 2016.

The promotional programme in India has targeted the country's swelling MICE and luxury market, which has witnessed tremendous growth in outbound corporate travel in recent years as more and more corporates recognise the importance of MICE activities as a key driver to engage internal and external customers.

"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."

With RAKTDA projecting 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, Mattar highlighted the emirate's close proximity to Dubai - a long-standing destination of choice for Indian tourists - has proven a key factor in making Ras Al Khaimah an attractive destination.

"Ras Al Khaimah is only a 45-minute drive from Dubai; our stunning natural landscapes, unspoilt beaches and culture, world-class hotels and resorts and abundant adventure activities are easily accessible," said Mattar. "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."

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