In a significant development for Ras Al Khaimah’s long-term economic and tourism strategy, Marjan, the master developer of freehold properties in the emirate, and RAK Hospitality Holding (RAKHH), the government-owned investment and development arm, have announced a landmark merger. The unified entity will operate under the Marjan brand, combining expertise in land development and hospitality to strengthen Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a leading global destination for tourism, lifestyle, and investment.

The merger creates one of the UAE’s largest integrated real estate developers, aligning with the emirate’s RAK Vision 2030, a roadmap targeting 3.5 million annual visitors and nearly 20,000 hotel keys by the end of the decade. The consolidated company will bring together property development, hospitality management, and lifestyle experiences under a single platform to deliver large-scale, mixed-use destinations that reflect Ras Al Khaimah’s growing global appeal.

“This merger builds upon solid foundations for a new chapter of advancement and success, enabling us to deliver iconic destinations that are deeply rooted in Ras Al Khaimah’s unique identity, creating high-value jobs for Emiratis, developing national capabilities, and reinforcing our position as a beacon of opportunity and innovation,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of Marjan.

Sheikh Ahmed emphasised that the merger supports the emirate’s strategic ambitions under RAK Vision 2030, adding: “Ras Al Khaimah is committed to its vision to drive progress and sustainable development, celebrating its rich history, preserving its heritage, and honouring its identity.”

Under the new structure, Marjan will lead a number of key master developments, including Al Marjan Island, RAK Central, Marjan Beach, and a new Jebel Jais masterplan. These projects will integrate residential, commercial, and leisure components with essential infrastructure such as healthcare, education, and sustainability-focused amenities.

Abdulla Al Abdouli, Group CEO of Marjan, stated that the merger will “champion Ras Al Khaimah’s development and master planning into a smart, authentic, connected city of the future, and a vibrant destination where people, businesses, and communities thrive.”

Following the unveiling of Marjan Beach, a coastal mixed-use project covering 85 million square feet, the emirate’s development pipeline continues to expand. Infrastructure works will include 22,000 residential units, 12,000 hotel keys, and 6.5 million square feet of open green space. The destination is expected to house 74,000 residents and 32,000 workers, while accommodating up to 180,000 visitors each year.

Marjan is also extending Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism offering beyond the coast, with plans to develop 100 kilometres of mountain hiking and biking trails within the next five years. Additionally, the emirate aims to host more than 20,000 festival-goers annually through major cultural and entertainment events, while providing housing for 15,000 hospitality professionals.

The merged entity will operate advanced laundry facilities capable of processing over 100,000 tonnes annually through energy-efficient systems, part of the emirate’s broader sustainability and efficiency drive. Officials described the merger as a pivotal step towards creating a “future-ready” organisation that will help Ras Al Khaimah transition into a diversified economy and attract further international investment.

Ras Al Khaimah remains one of the UAE’s most dynamic and diversified economies, with no single sector contributing more than 27 per cent of its GDP. The emirate offers 100 per cent foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and competitive corporate tax rates, underpinned by strong ‘A’-range credit ratings from Fitch and S&P.

Marjan’s portfolio includes several high-profile developments such as Al Marjan Island, RAK Central, Marjan Beach, and Wynn Al Marjan Island, which together are helping redefine the emirate as a luxury lifestyle and tourism hub featuring global hospitality brands like Four Seasons, Nobu, Waldorf Astoria, and Ritz-Carlton.