Ras Al Khaimah Ruler Welcomes Participants in Global Tourism Leadership Program

Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, met with participants from the Global Tourism Leadership program at his palace in Saqr bin Mohammed City. The program is organized by the Government Knowledge Exchange Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, working with Dubai College of Tourism to develop future tourism leaders.

The ruler emphasized that tourism forms a cornerstone of the UAE's comprehensive development strategy. He highlighted Ras Al Khaimah's commitment to strengthening this vital sector through clear vision and strategic investments that support its position as a leading global destination.

"Ras Al Khaimah gives special attention to developing the tourism sector by implementing quality projects that contribute to diversifying tourism experiences," Sheikh Saud said. These efforts aim to enhance the emirate's status as a distinguished global destination in tourism and hospitality.

The emirate has been pursuing an aggressive tourism development strategy in recent years. Ras Al Khaimah has invested heavily in adventure tourism, luxury resorts, and unique experiences like the world's longest zipline. This approach differentiates it from other UAE destinations that focus primarily on shopping and urban attractions.

For the tourism industry, Ras Al Khaimah's strategy represents a significant shift toward experiential travel. The emirate's natural landscape - mountains, beaches, and desert - provides opportunities for outdoor activities that appeal to international visitors seeking authentic experiences beyond traditional city tourism.

Sheikh Saud praised Dubai College of Tourism's pioneering role in developing specialized educational programs. These programs prepare leadership capable of keeping pace with tourism sector requirements and development, enhancing the UAE's global standing in the industry.

The knowledge exchange initiative reflects the UAE's broader strategy to build local expertise in key economic sectors. By developing homegrown talent in tourism management, the country reduces dependence on foreign expertise while creating career paths for Emiratis in the growing hospitality sector.

Program participants expressed their appreciation for the ruler's hospitality and continued support for the emirate's tourism sector. They praised the quality projects taking place in Ras Al Khaimah, which reflect a clear future vision that contributes to enhancing the emirate's position on regional and global tourism maps.

The meeting was attended by Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange, and Philippa Harrison, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.