Building on the 35 percent growth in Indian visitors, the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah is committed to sustainable tourism and further development of MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions) and wedding venues across the emirate, according to Ras al-Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, or RAKTDA.

The emirates has seen a 35 percent growth in the first quarter of 2017, thus making India the fourth largest market for Ras al-Khaimah. The emirate is attracting families for MICE and wedding travels into the city, Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras al-Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said in a press conference held on Wednesday to outline the 2017 strategy for the Indian market.

The average length of stay of Indian guests in the first quarter of 2017 grew by 10.6 percent.

Year-on-year, India has continued to remain one of the most significant sources of visitors, accounting for eight percent of total visitors to the emirate last year, Mattar said.

The Outbound Tour Operators Association of India, OTOAI, will hold its three-day 2017 Convention in Ras al-Khaimah on 12th September, according to an agreement signed with the RAKTDA.

Tourist footfall from India in the first quarter of this year grew by 35 percent, while the number of guest nights taken by Indian tourists grew to 49.4 percent in the same period compared to the first quarter of 2016, according to the RAKTDA.

Ras al-Khaimah hosts an array of natural landscapes that appeal to all kinds of visitors, whether it is beach-lovers, active adventurers or wellness seekers. Most hotels offer Indian cuisine and water sports that offer a romantic view of marine life, including flamingos, turtles and more.

The place will also soon feature the world’s longest zip line, an observation deck and luxury mountain camp, and will also launch cycling and hiking routes across the emirate, with a focus on Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain peak.