Unique Partnership Opens Up Middle East Tourism

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collectively initiate and pursue cross-destination tourism promotion.

The agreement, which will see cross marketing initiatives between the Musandam Governorate, Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, has been signed in London between Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of RAKTDA and Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Chief Executive Officer of OMRAN Group.

The MoU provides an official platform for both parties to cooperate on initiatives aimed at attracting more international visitors, while positioning Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam as leading Middle East global tourism destinations.

The agreement will see leaders of both organisations working together to create opportunities for travellers to visit both destinations during one single trip.

The partnership between the destinations is a natural fit: they are a 90-minute drive parat and share the Hajar mountain range as well as a wealth of other natural landscapes.

Furthermore, their intertwined cultural heritage and historical connections serve to enrich and strengthen the unique collaboration which includes:

Facilitating ease of access in transportation between Musandam and Ras Al Khaimah
Developing favourable visa arrangements for international travellers to visit both destinations
Initiating tourism packages, adventure offerings and partnership opportunities.

CEO of RAKTDA, Raki Phillips, said: “This first of its kind agreement is built upon a formidable synergy between Ras Al Khaimah and the neighbouring Musandam Governorate.

“We look forward to working together with OMRAN on cross-destination promotions which will not only showcase each of our destinations’ distinct tourism offerings, but also raise awareness among international visitors about the wide range of tourism attractions in the Middle East.”

Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, OMRAN Group’s CEO, added: " This Memorandum of Understanding underscores the pivotal role tourism authorities play in championing natural assets and cultural heritage.

"Through our joint efforts, we aim to craft distinctive and innovative experiences for global travellers, further enhancing the allure of our region."

Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam Governorate boast remarkable natural assets, offering tourists a range of captivating attractions.

These include the majestic Hajar Mountains and the stunning fjords for which the Governorate of Musandam is renowned. As both are uniquely situated along the pristine shores of the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman respectively, international travellers can additionally expect to enjoy an extensive range of water activities when visiting both destinations as part of the new partnership.

From immersive diving and snorkelling experiences, picturesque Dhow cruises, dolphin watching, kayaking and waterparks, Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam are set to deliver experiences for every kind of traveller amidst stunning natural landscapes.