Economic Updates: UAE Ras Al Khaimah

RAK: Expectations from mandatory health insurance

The Middle East | 27 Mar 2013

Plans to introduce compulsory health insurance in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) are expected to usher in a wave of new private sector investment, a response to a forecast rise in demand for specialised services. To do so, the emirate is also stepping up efforts to attract and retain trained staff in an increasingly competitive market.

RAK: Year in Review 2012

The Middle East | 15 Jan 2013

The economy of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has continued to expand, and while final year-end 2012 figures for growth have yet to be released, officials say they are confident that the forecast 8% increase in GDP – the same rate as in 2011 – will be have been achieved in the emirate.

RAK: Boosting cement production

The Middle East | 6 Dec 2012

With demand for cement in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) poised to rise and regional projects already driving up exports, there are signs that the industry could be turning a corner.

RAK: Rising profile

The Middle East | 16 Oct 2012

Ras Al Khaimah’s (RAK’s) tourism sector continues to exceed expectations, with visitor arrivals well up on forecasts and overseas investment flowing in. However, the emirate faces stiff competition in a crowded market to develop brand recognition.

RAK: Smooth industry

The Middle East | 5 Sep 2012

The already busy glass industry in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is set to expand even further in 2013 with yet another overseas company setting up production facilities in the emirate. Indeed, RAK’s central location and low costs have become desirable for numerous companies looking to set up in the region.

RAK: Ceramics milestone

The Middle East | 25 Jul 2012

The limestone deposits of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), along with the emirate’s five ports, an airport and good road links to the rest of the UAE and GCC, have enabled the emirate to develop a substantial industrial sector, most notably in ceramics. Indeed, despite facing rising costs and uncertainty in overseas markets, RAK’s flagship industrial manufacturer recently reached a major milestone.

RAK: Room for growth

The Middle East | 6 Jul 2012

With the economy continuing to expand, retailers in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) are hoping for a period of sustained growth, benefitting from rising local incomes and an increasing number of tourists, but they are also mindful of the competition from neighbouring emirates.