RAKTDA, Trip.com Group partner to enhance Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal for Chinese travelers

UAE – At ITB Berlin 2025, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Trip.com Group, a leading global travel services provider, signed an MOU to launch initiatives aimed at enhancing Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal as a must-visit destination for Chinese travellers.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) marks another significant step in Ras Al Khaimah’s ongoing expansion into the Chinese market.

The agreement, executed by Amanda Wang, Vice President of Trip.com Group, and Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of Destination Tourism Development at RAKTDA, builds on a successful existing partnership.

It sets the stage for transformative initiatives aimed at boosting the emirate’s visibility, appeal, and accessibility in one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets.

Strategic Collaboration to Boost Tourism

Harnessing Trip.com Group’s robust digital ecosystem, sophisticated data analytics, and extensive consumer reach, the collaboration is designed to engage Chinese travelers throughout their entire journey, from initial inspiration and planning, to booking and on-the-ground experiences.

Immersive storytelling, targeted promotions, and exclusive travel offers will help position Ras Al Khaimah as the destination of choice for visitors in search of an authentic Arabian escape that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality.

Innovative Digital Initiatives

Since its launch in June 2024, the partnership has generated more than 17.5 million page impressions for Ras Al Khaimah.

This surge in digital engagement has significantly benefited the hospitality sector, with hotel bookings rising by 22% in the latter half of 2024 due to carefully orchestrated marketing campaigns.

The success of these initiatives was recently underscored at Trip.com Group’s Global Partner Summit in December 2024, where RAKTDA was honored with the “Outstanding Strategic Partner of the Year” and “Best Overseas Partner of 2024” awards.

Vision for the Future

Ras Al Khaimah’s leadership explained that they view China as one of the fastest-growing source markets.

Iyad Rasbey indicated that extending the partnership with Trip.com Group was a crucial step in exploring new growth opportunities, as combining their destination marketing expertise with the group’s digital influence would broaden their audience and highlight the emirate’s heritage and Arabian hospitality.

Amanda Wang emphasized that Ras Al Khaimah’s natural beauty, adventurous spirit, and cultural significance would be showcased through enhanced digital storytelling and increased platform presence.

The next phase includes launching a flagship Ras Al Khaimah Star Hub store on Ctrip, Trip.com Group’s main booking platform for Chinese travelers, along with additional support such as language assistance and digital payment solutions.

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