Foreign investors have significantly contributed to a remarkable year for Ras Al Khaimah, as RAK Properties reports its launches exceeding AED5.4 billion. This surge highlights the emirate’s growing appeal among global buyers, enhancing its status as a competitive real estate destination. In an interview, CEO Sameh Muhtadi shared insights into the unprecedented growth and investment trends that are reshaping the emirate’s real estate landscape.
Unprecedented Growth Driven by Foreign Demand
RAK Properties has experienced a record year, with international buyers driving sales to more than double the levels seen last year. CEO Sameh Muhtadi announced that project launches have surpassed the ambitious target of AED5 billion, demonstrating the emirate’s burgeoning attractiveness to foreign investors. “2025 has been a stellar year for us,” he declared. “Our sales have been incredible.”
Diverse International Investor Base
This year’s launches exceeded AED5.4 billion, with sales climbing approximately 200 percent compared to the previous year. A notable shift has occurred, as foreign buyers now represent around 70 percent of total demand, moving away from a historically domestic-centric investor base. Investors from the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Armenia, and Kazakhstan have entered the market, diversifying the investor demographic and bolstering off-plan sales momentum in Ras Al Khaimah.
Vision 2030 and Structural Developments
The impressive performance coincides with Ras Al Khaimah’s large-scale development initiatives aligned with the emirate’s Vision 2030 plan. Recent mergers, including that of Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding, have created a consolidated entity aimed at unifying real estate, tourism, and lifestyle operations. This strategic integration is expected to produce tens of thousands of jobs while expanding hotel capacity to about 25,000 keys by 2032. Prominent global operators, including JW Marriott and Four Seasons, are set to support this ambitious plan.
Future Projects and Community-Centric Focus
RAK Properties, which holds 11 plots on Marjan Beach, is poised to capitalize on this unprecedented growth. Muhtadi expressed the developer’s aim to be the first to launch projects in the new district, which is expected to thrive due to the proximity of upcoming resorts by prestigious brands. In 2024, RAK Properties is set to introduce six new branded projects, including the Four Seasons Resort and Residences, expected to launch in the third quarter of 2026.
With average selling prices soaring from AED1,000 per square foot in 2023 to approximately AED2,050 this year, the emirate remains competitively priced compared to other beachfront markets in the UAE. RAK Properties intends to hand over 700 units by the end of this year and 1,200 units over five projects in 2026 as construction progresses swiftly. The company’s strategy of transitioning from launch to on-site building within six months is designed to sustain investor confidence and yield returns.
Muhtadi emphasized that the company remains committed to community-focused designs rather than isolated projects, stating, “Our aim is to curate lifestyles. That is what differentiates us.” The transformation of Ras Al Khaimah into one of the Gulf’s leading luxury and investment hubs continues, propelled by developments like the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort and a wave of newly introduced international brands.
“We are very proud of our achievements,” Muhtadi stated. “We have a unique product and will continue this journey,” positioning RAK Properties at the heart of Ras Al Khaimah’s transformative real estate landscape.