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2023 was a transformative year for Ras Al Khaimah, an emirate known for its dynamic growth and visionary initiatives. The year was marked by a series of extraordinary accomplishments across various sectors, setting new standards in sustainability, innovation, economic growth, and community welfare. This detailed review delves into each of these achievements that collectively illustrate the remarkable progress of Ras Al Khaimah.
Celebrations and Global Recognition
- Fireworks World Records: The year began with Ras Al Khaimah setting two new Guinness World Records with a spectacular fireworks display.
- Global Rankings: The emirate was ranked fourth globally for expats to live and work, as per InterNations’ report.
- CNN Travel and Conde Nast Recognition: It was named a top destination by CNN Travel for 2023 and Conde Nast Traveler for 2024.
- Forbes and Travel + Leisure Accolades: Forbes U.S. highlighted it as a must-visit, and Travel + Leisure Asia named it ‘the place to be in the UAE’.
Sustainability and Innovation
- ISO 50001 Certification: Achieving a global first, all Ras Al Khaimah Government entities earned ISO 50001 energy management certification.
- COP28 Participation: The emirate showcased its sustainability initiatives at COP28 UAE.
- Digital Assets Oasis: Launch of the world’s first common law free zone for digital and virtual assets companies.
- EarthCheck Silver Certification: First Middle East destination to receive this recognition for sustainability.
- Natural Hydrogen Exploration: Project launched to explore natural hydrogen in the emirate’s mountains.
- Carbon Capture Project: Commencement of a project to capture carbon via mineralization in the emirate’s rock formations.
Economic Growth and Tourism
- Record Visitors: Welcoming 1.2 million visitors in 2023, the highest number ever.
- Al Marjan Island Development: A 65% surge in land values due to new international projects.
- Credit Rating Affirmation and Upgrade: Affirmed ‘A’ credit rating with Positive Outlook by Fitch and upgraded rating by S&P.
- Hotel and Resort Announcements: Major launches including Nobu Al Marjan Island, Nikki Beach, and other luxury brands.
Sports, Culture, and Education
- World Cup Winner Joins Emirates Club: Andres Iniesta, a football legend, joined Ras Al Khaimah’s Emirates Club.
- Art Festival Attraction: Over 30,000 visitors at the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival.
- Teachers Network Symposium: A successful educational event by the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research.
- Broadcast Journalism Scholarship Program: Launch of the Saud bin Sagr program.
- DP World Tour Championship: Participation of the world’s top golf professionals.
- WMF Minifootball World Cup: Hosting the event, a first for the Middle East.
- RAK Half Marathon: Organizing the 16th edition of the event.
- AURAK’s QS 5 Stars Plus Rating: First university in the UAE to be awarded this rating.
- RAKMHSU’s Digital Integration and Accreditations: Incorporating AI into learning and earning U.S. accreditations.
- Population Census Completion: By Ras Al Khaimah Statistics Center.
- Free Zone Hub of the Year: RAKEZ received this title at the 2023 Enterprise Agility Awards.
Infrastructure and Community Development
- Airport Expansion: Increased connectivity with new flights and routes.
- Civil Marriage Contracts: Ras Al Khaimah Courts began accepting applications for non-Muslim residents and tourists.
- Case Settlement Efficiency: Courts settled 98.45% of registered cases in 2023.
- Green Mobility Framework: RAK Transport Authority’s initiative for sustainable transportation.
- Educational Foundation’s Autism Center: Opening of an early intervention center by the RAK Autism Center.
- Luxury Yacht Facility Agreement: RAK PORTS’ deal with Sunreef Yachts.
- Porto Playa Development: Partnership between RAK Properties and Ellington Properties.
- Julphar’s Pharma Partnership: Licensing deal with Sunshine Lake Pharma of China.
- E-Government Advancements: Expansion of online services and launch of the DGOV Academy.
- RAK Ceramics Recycling Program: Industry’s first sanitaryware recycling initiative.
- Royal Yacht Club Recognition: Awarded the 5 Gold Anchors from The Yacht Harbour Association.
- International Bus Route: Connecting Ras Al Khaimah with Musandam, Oman.
- Etihad Rail Partnership: Inaugural freight journey with RAK Ceramics products.
- Brand Identity and Strategy Reveal: By RAK Properties.
- Sustainable Restaurant Award: 1484 by Puro’s recognition at the Leaders in F&B Awards 2023.
- RAK Chamber Award: For ‘Best Digital Transformation in the Work Environment’.
- Green Schools Initiative Success: By the Department of Public Services and RAK Educational Zone.
- Quality of Life Award: Won by the Government Human Resources Department.
- Record Material Throughput: At Saar Port with over 64 million tons.
- Vertiport MoU Signing: With VPorts for eVTOL aircraft operations.
Conclusion
Ras Al Khaimah’s achievements in 2023 are a testament to its dynamic growth, innovative spirit, and commitment to sustainability and community development. These accomplishments not only enhanced the emirate’s global standing but also set a strong foundation for future progress and prosperity.
