RAK: The rising star of global real estate

The real estate gold rush in Ras Al Khaimah is uncovering hidden gems for global investors, says Sameh Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties

As global investors seek fresh opportunities beyond saturated markets, Ras Al Khaimah is emerging as one of the top alternative destinations in the world for real estate investment. Hidden gems like Ras Al Khaimah should not be overlooked by the savvy investor.

The emirate’s real estate market has experienced remarkable growth recently, with transactions in 2025 rising to 118% to AED15.08bn ($4.16bn), up from AED6.94bn ($1.89bn) in 2023. This rapid growth reflects the emirate’s increasing appeal as an investment alternative to more mature markets. Added to this in the first quarter of 2025, residential property prices jumped 39% year on year, fuelled by demand for luxury and branded developments on Al Marjan Island and in areas such as RAK Central. This surge reflects a broader trend, with real estate transaction volumes up nearly 25,000% since 2017.

But what is driving investors here in droves, why are luxury hospitality brands capitalising on this momentum, and what does the emirate’s rise of expatriates signify?

Favourable factors drawing investors to Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal has increased in recent years, due to a combination of its strategic location, diversified economy, and business-friendly environment. Less than a one-hour drive from Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah is also within a four-hour flight of 31% of the world’s population, at the crossroads of trade between Asia, Europe and Africa.

Ras Al Khaimah’s economy – where no single sector accounts for more than 27% of GDP – has also achieved consistently high ratings from international agencies such as Fitch, which reaffirmed the emirate’s “A+ with a stable outlook” rating, offering a stable foundation for investors in industries like real estate and hospitality.

RAK Properties is driving this growth in line with RAK Vision 2030, transforming Ras Al Khaimah into a modern, sustainable real estate hub. With recent announcements regarding the opening of a Four Seasons Resort and Giorgio Armani branded residence, the company is solidifying its role as a driver for growth and innovation in the emirate.

Ras Al Khaimah is also meeting investor demands for modern and sustainable properties in a resilient location, where investors can be safe in the knowledge that the business ecosystem is thriving, and the infrastructure is robust. With its forward-thinking approach, attractive tax incentives, and support for global investors, businesses in Ras Al Khaimah can thrive, achieving long-term sustainable growth Notably, the award-winning Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) attracted 13,141 new companies in 2024, a 66% rise on the previous year, reinforcing its status as the destination of choice for global business.

Luxury resorts facilitating further investment opportunities

The global luxury real estate market is booming, with strong demand for high-end properties in the US, Europe, and the UAE. RAK Properties recorded AED1.5bn ($408.44m) in sales in the first half of 2025 and is on target to achieve AED3bn ($816.82m) for the full year, but why should investors consider Ras Al Khaimah in particular?

Well, just look to the luxury global brands Mina is attracting to the emirate. With existing and upcoming names such as InterContinental, Anantara, Nikki Beach, and more in the pipeline by end of year, RAK Properties’ various partnerships with leading brands are setting new standards in the region and cementing the emirate’s standing as a premier destination for luxury real estate.

The ripple effect – the influence of expats

Whilst the attraction of well-known brands such as Wynn have undoubtedly boosted international awareness and interest for the emirate’s investment opportunities, Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal extends far beyond luxury resorts.

The growing expatriate population is a key driver of the emirate’s real estate boom. In 2024, RAK took first spot out of 53 cities on InterNations Expat Essentials list, ranked as the best city for expats, highlighting its liveability, safety, and world-class amenities in education and healthcare. At a time where some regions around the world are restricting visa programs, RAK’s Golden Visa Programme has attracted expats worldwide, encouraging long-term residency.

To meet this demand, RAK Properties is developing and strategically positioning Mina as a community- centric lifestyle destination in line with RAK Vision 2030 to enhance both Ras Al Khaimah’s economic diversification and global appeal.

A compelling case for investment

Real estate in Ras Al Khaimah is experiencing a significant surge, particularly the luxury and branded residences sector. The emirate’s ability to consistently deliver returns in a highly diversified and growing economy, coupled with its friendly business ecosystem and attractive lifestyle is drawing attention from around the world.

For investors seeking to uncover hidden gems, Ras Al Khaimah presents a compelling case – one that blends exceptional financial opportunities, with an unparalleled quality of life. Now is the time for global investors to seize all that Ras Al Khaimah has to offer.

Further information – rakproperties.ae

All property images are computer generated