Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RAK Airport) achieved record-breaking growth in 2024, with passenger numbers surging by 28%. The announcement, made by Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, highlights the emirate’s growing significance as an aviation hub, benefiting from visionary leadership and enhanced services.
Strong Leadership Fuels Growth
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Sheikh Salem Al Qasimi
Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation, Ras Al Khaimah
Sheikh Salem Al Qasimi attributed the airport’s exceptional growth to the UAE’s transformative vision under President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Their leadership has established the UAE as a global leader in air travel and cargo transit.
The development of Ras Al Khaimah’s aviation sector is further credited to the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah. Their efforts have solidified the emirate’s position as a strategic aviation hub connecting Eurasia, the Arab world, and Africa.
Impressive Passenger and Cargo Growth
RAK Airport welcomed 661,765 passengers in 2024, marking a 28% increase compared to 2023 and nearly doubling 2022 figures. Departing passenger numbers soared by 39%, reaching 293,815. These results stem from expanded airline services, new destinations, and the rebound in global travel demand.
Cargo operations saw even more remarkable growth, with a 97% increase compared to 2023, processing 6,652 tonnes of cargo. This surge exceeded forecasts by 190%, underscoring RAK Airport’s rising role in global supply chains, fueled by e-commerce and logistics expansion. The introduction of Fly Flyao cargo services contributed significantly to this success.
Enhanced Connectivity and Infrastructure
Aircraft movements increased by 21.3% in 2024, with 7,440 flights recorded. The rise in air traffic reflects improved connectivity, as airlines introduced new destinations and added flights to existing routes.
To enhance traveller experience, the airport introduced Gulf currency exchange services in mid-2024 at departure and arrival terminals. Additionally, three new charter airlines—URAL AIR (Russia), ENTER AIR (Poland), and Hi-Sky (Romania)—commenced operations, further boosting international connectivity.
A Bright Future for RAK Aviation
The achievements of RAK Airport in 2024 underscore its growing importance in the region’s aviation sector. Its record-breaking passenger numbers and cargo growth highlight the success of strategic initiatives aimed at expanding services and infrastructure. As Ras Al Khaimah continues to position itself as a key player in global aviation, the airport’s sustained growth will undoubtedly support the emirate’s economic development.