The Emirate of Ras al-Khaimah has placed significant emphasis on developing a balanced economy focused on production and exports, in addition to logistics, tourism, and manufacturing industries. This approach aims to enhance national performance and diversify non-oil economic sectors in line with the objectives of the “We Are the Emirates 2031” vision.
Recent data from the Ras al-Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry indicates a remarkable growth in export activity during the first nine months of 2025, showcasing the dynamism of the emirate’s economy and its ability to respond positively to external demands. The expansion of trade partnerships across Middle Eastern, Asian, European, and African markets is also evident.
The value of goods exported by chamber members, which included certificates of origin, reached approximately 7.6 billion dirhams. The third quarter of the year marked peak activity, with the issuance of 9,467 certificates of origin, highlighting the stability of production lines and the sustained demand for products from Ras al-Khaimah.
Saudi Arabia led as the top importer from Ras al-Khaimah, issuing 9,393 certificates of origin valued at over 1.6 billion dirhams, reflecting the depth of Gulf economic partnerships. Oman ranked second with 2,199 certificates worth 211 million dirhams, followed by Kuwait with 1,182 certificates amounting to nearly 299 million dirhams. Iraq came in fourth with a value of 1.2 billion dirhams through 992 certificates of origin, emphasizing Ras al-Khaimah’s growing industrial role in meeting the needs of densely populated regional markets. Qatar, Bahrain, and Egypt were also among the leading markets for exports, clearly indicating geographic diversity, which provides strategic flexibility to the emirate’s economy and reduces risks associated with reliance on a single market.
Comprehensive Vision
Mohammed Musabah Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ras al-Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has emphasized that the economic path of the emirate is grounded in a holistic developmental vision. This vision does not view growth merely as a numerical goal but rather as a means to empower the community, enhance institutional competitiveness, and ensure long-term sustainability.
Al Nuaimi stated that investments in human capital, infrastructure, and institutions have been fundamental in attracting foreign investments and have helped establish a resilient economic framework capable of accommodating global transformations. This is achieved while maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, particularly in developing industrial zones and supporting manufacturing and advanced technologies. Free zones in Ras al-Khaimah, notably the Ras al-Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), play a pivotal role in promoting industrial and commercial activity, with the number of certificates of origin issued from free zones to the local UAE market rising to 2,839, valued at 567 million dirhams.
Rami Jallad, CEO of RAKEZ, affirmed that the emirate has successfully created a comprehensive business environment characterized by flexible regulations, advanced infrastructure, and investor-focused services. This environment has attracted high-quality projects in manufacturing, advanced technologies, and clean energy. He noted that this economic diversity enhances Ras al-Khaimah’s ability to adapt to global economic changes and strengthens its position as a flourishing regional business hub.
The tourism sector in Ras al-Khaimah is experiencing a qualitative transformation, emerging as one of the key drivers of economic growth. According to recent data from Sterling Global Hospitality Consulting, the emirate welcomed 1.28 million hotel guests in 2024, representing a growth of 5.1% compared to the previous year. This reflects the increasing attractiveness of the emirate and the variety of tourism offerings available.