RAK continues to appeal to tourists

Ras al Khaimah (RAK) has become increasingly attractive to holidaymakers in recent years and tourism chiefs are hoping to see visitor numbers grow even further in 2013.The northern emirate sometimes goes unnoticed because it is overshadowed by nearby Dubai and Abu Dhabi.However, figures recently published by RAK Airways - the emirate's main airline - highlighted a sharp rise in the number of people travelling to and from RAK in 2012.Indeed, the firm reported a 50 per cent upturn in passenger numbers during the year when compared with 2011.Bosses at the company said that its new route to Abu Dhabi and an important codesharing agreement with Etihad Airways were major factors behind the organisation's strong performance.RAK will stage a number of events this year that will hopefully boost these visitor statistics.The emirate hosted the fourth leg of the international sailing regatta, Sailing Arabia - The Tour 2013, this week (February 19th) and tourism chiefs believe such high-profile occasions can really put RAK on the map.Chief operating officer of the RAK Tourism and Development Authority Victor Louis remarked: "We, in Ras Al Khaimah, are proud to host the third version of this prestigious event as it is a perfect showcase opportunity to promote Ras Al Khaimah as a potential and important partner on an international sporting calendar."Sailing Arabia - The Tour started in Bahrain on February 10th and will travel around the Gulf to places like the UAE and Qatar, before ending in Oman on February 27th.The stage that was held in RAK took place at the Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club, which is a popular destination all year round.It is located in the Al Hamra Village - a luxurious and exclusive community on the Arabian Gulf.RAK tends to benefit from its close proximity to Dubai, as people who fancy a break from the hustle and bustle of the major city can make the short 45-minute trip to the quieter emirate.