Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is entering a new chapter with the announcement of a major terminal expansion, targeting a capacity of three million passengers annually by 2028. The 30,000 sqm development will introduce state-of-the-art facilities, smarter travel services, and a strong push towards green infrastructure—cementing the emirate’s vision of becoming a central player in the UAE’s aviation and tourism sector.
The expansion project, spearheaded by Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation, aims to position RAK Airport as a gateway to the northern emirates’ beaches, mountains, and rising portfolio of luxury destinations.
Enhancing the Passenger Experience with Modern Facilities
The new terminal will feature a range of passenger-first upgrades, including advanced baggage handling systems, electronic gates, and improved customs and passport control services. These enhancements are expected to streamline travel processes and deliver a seamless experience for both international and regional travellers.
A dedicated private aviation terminal is also in development, complete with exclusive hangars and aircraft parking to serve high-end travellers and private jet operators. This facility will operate independently of the main terminal and reflect Ras Al Khaimah’s growing luxury tourism offering.
Airport Growth Aligns with Tourism Boom
Ras Al Khaimah is witnessing a sharp rise in tourist numbers, driven by new hotel openings, improved flight connectivity, and strategic marketing efforts. In the first four months of 2025 alone, RAK Airport recorded over 332,000 passengers, including 164,000 arrivals and more than 144,000 departures.
This upward trend follows a 28 percent growth in arrivals in 2024 compared to the previous year. With tourism now a major contributor to the emirate’s economy, the airport’s expansion is a key enabler in reaching new markets and handling the expected influx of visitors.
Sustainability at the Heart of the Design
A standout feature of the new terminal is its commitment to sustainable technology. The project will incorporate energy-efficient LED lighting, geothermal heat pumps, and water recycling systems to reduce environmental impact. Additionally, RAK Airport will be the first in the region to implement thermodynamic energy efficiency systems by DYNAES—marking a regional milestone in green aviation infrastructure.
These innovations align with Ras Al Khaimah’s wider environmental goals and reflect the growing importance of sustainability in travel infrastructure across the UAE.
Supporting Economic Diversification and Cargo Growth
The terminal expansion is part of a broader development strategy that extends beyond tourism. A new air cargo operator has recently set up base at RAK Airport, conducting over 100 freight flights transporting pharmaceuticals, livestock, and various goods. Plans are also underway to establish an aircraft maintenance facility to support regional aviation operations and contribute further to economic diversification.
This multi-layered approach reinforces Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a strategic logistics and trade hub while enhancing its competitive edge in the aviation sector.
The Gateway to the North
RAK Airport’s growing airline network already includes carriers like Air Arabia, IndiGo, and Air India Express, with charter connections to major cities including Cairo, Jeddah, Moscow, and Prague. As interest from European markets grows, negotiations with new international airlines are underway to further strengthen connectivity.
With construction scheduled for completion by 2028, the terminal’s launch will mark a major milestone in the emirate’s transformation. This isn’t just an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a strategic shift that places Ras Al Khaimah at the forefront of the UAE’s long-term tourism and economic plans.
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