Ras Al Khaimah has experienced substantial development in the real estate sector in the past decade across the clusters of Al Hamra, Mina Al Arab and Marjan Island. The emirate is poised to experience significant growth in its residential sector, with a total of 14,148 new residential units announced to be developed between 2026 and 2029. Branded residences account for 5,604 of these units, reaching a 40 percent share of the total.
“Branded residences are transforming Ras Al Khaimah’s real estate landscape. The demand for elevated living experiences is reshaping the market, with our findings highlighting the growing importance of branded residences as a key driver of luxury investment in the emirate,” stated Tatiana Veller, managing director of Stirling Hospitality Advisors.
Hotel brands lead branded residence market
In its latest Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Investment Pulse, Stirling Hospitality Advisors reveals that the majority of branded residences entering the Ras Al Khaimah market are affiliated with hotel brands, which is the most prevalent model. Hospitality brands that have announced residences include Waldorf Astoria, Ritz Carlton, Nikki Beach, Nobu, and more.
Non-hotel brands such as Tonino Lamborghini, Elie Saab, Yoo and Aston Martin have also shared plans for branded residential projects in Ras Al Khaimah. For developers and buyers, these residences provide quality assurance as they relate to the brand’s reputation. Therefore, they boost buyer confidence, enhance property value, and offer a unique “lock-and-leave” lifestyle that appeals to high-net-worth individuals.
Property prices to surge
According to the report, real estate units experienced an average price increase of 30 percent in 2022, driven by the Wynn Resort announcement and an anticipated population surge projected to grow by 55 percent through 2030.
With Ras Al Khaimah’s strategic location, premium destination appeal, ongoing infrastructure development, and government initiatives, the region is gearing up for further price growth. Projections indicate that prices in Ras Al Khaimah’s secondary market could reach approximately AED4,000 per square foot by 2027 and AED4,500 by 2030.
The real estate landscape in Ras Al Khaimah has seen steadily increasing property values and exceptional returns on investment. As of September, the emirate saw apartment capital values rise by as much as 35 percent, yielding internal rates of return (IRR) ranging from 20 to 30 percent. One of the most popular locations for properties has been on Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island, which is producing rental yields exceeding 9 percent.
The shift highlights Ras Al Khaimah’s growing appeal for investors seeking superior returns in less competitive markets, positioning it as a prime destination for those looking to maximize their real estate investments.
“Ras Al Khaimah offers a fresh perspective for real estate investors, combining high returns with untapped potential. The emirate’s strategic developments and supportive government policies create a unique environment where growth and innovation thrive,” stated Oliver Mitri, co-founder of Imobiliare Dubai.
Hospitality sector surge
However, the real estate opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah are not only in residential properties. The hospitality sector will likely see substantial growth, driven by the emirate’s commitment to becoming a leading tourism and leisure destination. A key highlight of Ras Al Khaimah’s growing appeal is also the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island, a multi-billion-dollar resort development set to open in 2026. Positioned on Al Marjan Island, the resort will drive significant tourist traffic and boost occupancy rates, creating a ripple effect of increased demand for real estate in the vicinity.
Ras Al Khaimah has committed to nurturing a sustainable tourism industry, with a vision to attract over three million annual visitors by 2030. To achieve this ambitious target, the emirate set various strategies in motion that position it as a preferred destination. With the growing interest from the international traveler community, 2023 saw a notable 15 percent increase in revenue per available room (RevPAR) compared to last year, reaching AED383, stemming from a 20 percent rise in occupancy.
As Ras Al Khaimah continues to build on its strengths and attract more global interest, the real estate sector is set to remain a cornerstone of its economic landscape. With new projects on the horizon and a strategic focus on growth and diversification, Ras Al Khaimah offers unparalleled opportunities for investors and residents alike, promising a vibrant future filled with potential and prosperity.
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