Why is everyone so excited about Ras Al-Khaimah’s property market?
Dubai is rightfully lauded as the polestar of real estate success in the Emirates, with 2025 promising yet more growth. Fortunately for the UAE, the same factors that have contributed to Dubai’s record-breaking streak – strong investment incentives, economic stability, a strategically important location and world-class infrastructure – are also fuelling the meteoric rise of Ras Al-Khaimah’s property market.
Our nation’s northernmost Emirate has witnessed impressive growth of late, registering more than $4.8 billion in real estate transactions in 2024. In fact, last year saw Ras Al-Khaimah’s villa sales prices grow by as much as 35.6%, villa rental prices increase by up to 28%, and apartment rental prices rise by up to 42.7%, according to data published by Bayut.
As many of you will know, DAMAC Properties is investing heavily in Ras Al-Khaimah through Shoreline by DAMAC, a collection of branded beachfront residences ideally situated on Al Marjan Island. As expected, this project has already generated immense interest – a trend that I believe is being amplified by the Emirate’s rapidly increasing popularity.
So, why does everyone seem to be getting excited by Ras Al-Khaimah’s property market? Here are my thoughts…
An ambitious tourism vision
Like its neighbours, Ras Al-Khaimah is home to forward-thinking leaders who are committed to driving our nation towards economic prosperity through strategic policies and initiatives. With the aim of promoting growth across three key pillars – economy, society and environment – RAK Vision 2030 astutely recognises tourism as the cornerstone of sustainable economic development.
Last year, the Emirate welcomed a record-breaking 1.28 million overnight arrivals, representing an extremely healthy 12% increase in tourism revenue. If this pace is maintained, the Ras Al-Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) should be right on track to meet its Tourism Vision 2030 goals: to attract more than three million tourists annually, raise tourism’s contribution to one-third of GDP and create more than 20,000 jobs by 2030.
As it stands, the hospitality sector contributes 4% of the Emirate’s GDP, while real estate accounts for 7% – proportions that are only likely to expand due to a growing project pipeline. The number of hotel rooms in Ras Al-Khaimah, for example, is set to double to 14,000 by 2027, and in a unique move for our region’s hospitality industry, seven leading global hotel companies recently pledged to support the government’s vision for tourism development.
In addition to creating opportunities for hotels and short-term lets, an increase in tourism, coupled with the business and employment opportunities it brings, will drive demand for long-term rentals and off-plan sales, including branded residences.
Natural and cultural treasures
The natural beauty and 7,000-year history of Ras Al-Khaimah are undoubtedly key selling points for its burgeoning tourism industry, and they also represent a drawcard for homebuyers looking to enjoy a relaxed and enriching lifestyle. Meanwhile, those searching for adventure will find it right on their doorstep. The Emirate is home to the trekking trails of the Hajar Mountains, lush mangrove ecosystems that offer world-class paddleboarding and kayaking, and Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline at 2.38km.
Nature lovers will enjoy residing among greater flamingos and the countless other endemic species that populate the coastline, mountains and forests, while cultural history enthusiasts will appreciate the Emirate’s pearl fishing heritage and archaeological gems like Dhayah Fort and Al Jazeera Al Hamra.
Besides these attractions, Ras Al-Khaimah is within easy reach of Dubai. The pristine waterfront, breathtaking views and sophisticated leisure developments of Al Marjan Island are only 45 minutes from DXB, making it ideal as a base for commuters or anyone looking to purchase a holiday home.
Impressive investment opportunities
From a property investor’s point of view, Ras Al-Khaimah’s appeal lies in its tax incentives, relatively untapped potential and the prospect of high returns. For example, average rental yields in the Emirate currently stand at 6-8%, compared to a UAE average of 4.87%. Property prices have also been increasing over the past year, delivering impressive internal rates of return.
Even so, the Emirate still offers tremendous value for money for property buyers. And when one considers the diversity of Ras Al-Khaimah’s real estate landscape, combined with ongoing infrastructure projects and its thriving leisure and entertainment scene, it’s easy to see why interest is growing so quickly. Shoreline by DAMAC, which features units crafted in collaboration with Babolex, and other luxury offerings are providing yet more opportunities for buyers keen to secure a foothold in the Emirate.
Thanks to its winning combination of strategic government initiatives, unique natural and cultural heritage, and attractive investment opportunities, Ras Al-Khaimah’s real estate sector is moving from strength to strength. I and many other UAE property professionals have been aware of the Emirate’s untapped potential for many years, so I’m not surprised the rest of the world is starting to take notice.
