What's Happening?
Phillipa Harrison has been appointed as the new CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA). Harrison previously served as the managing director of Tourism Australia, where she was the first woman to hold the position. She will succeed Raki Phillips, who is stepping down in October to join Accor as regional president for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey. Harrison's appointment comes as Ras Al Khaimah aims to expand its tourism sector, having welcomed a record 654,000 visitors in the first half of 2025, marking a 6% increase from the previous year.
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Why It's Important?
Harrison's leadership is expected to play a crucial role in Ras Al Khaimah's efforts to boost its tourism industry. Her experience in managing Tourism Australia during challenging times, such as the pandemic, positions her well to navigate the competitive landscape against larger destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Her appointment signifies a strategic move to attract more visitors and investments, which could enhance the emirate's economic growth and global tourism profile.
What's Next?
As Harrison takes on her new role, she will likely focus on developing strategies to further increase visitor numbers and enhance the tourism infrastructure in Ras Al Khaimah. This may involve collaborations with international tourism bodies and local stakeholders to promote the emirate's unique offerings. The transition period will be closely monitored by industry observers to assess the impact of her leadership on the region's tourism trajectory.
