Ras Al Khaimah has launched Raha Island, a major new real estate and lifestyle destination developed by RAK Properties within the Mina Al Arab master development. The project extends the emirate's push into high-end hospitality and branded residences, following recent luxury launches by Emaar, Aldar, and the Wynn project on Al Marjan Island.
What Is Raha Island?
Raha Island is a sub-development within the Mina Al Arab masterplan, situated along Ras Al Khaimah's coastline. RAK Properties — the emirate's largest publicly listed property developer (ADX: RAKPROP) — is driving the project, which is designed to position Ras Al Khaimah as a premium island-living destination.
Three international five-star hotel brands have already confirmed plans for locations on Raha Island, though their names have not yet been disclosed. The island will also deliver a curated mix of branded residences, retail, and leisure facilities aimed at both residents and international visitors.
Key Features of Raha Island
The development includes a broad range of amenities:
- Five-Star Hotels: Three hospitality brands have committed to building 5-star properties on the island. - Luxury Branded Residences: High-end apartments and residences designed for discerning buyers seeking island living. - Marinas and Yacht Club: New marina infrastructure supporting water sports, leisure boating, and a members-only yacht club. - Beach Clubs and Members Beach: An exclusive members-only beach alongside open beach clubs for leisure. - Wholefood Markets: Fresh and organic food retail as part of a healthy-living concept integrated into the island. - Extensive Retail and F&B: A retail strip featuring exclusive brands and beachfront restaurants and cafés. - Public Beach Access: Over 2.5 kilometres of accessible public beach — open to residents and visitors alike. - Wellness Centre: Dedicated wellness and fitness facilities on the island.
Strategic Timing Amid RAK's Real Estate Boom
The launch of Raha Island comes as Ras Al Khaimah experiences sustained demand for luxury real estate, driven in part by the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island casino resort. RAK Properties is capitalising on this momentum, following similar moves by Emaar with its Address brand and Aldar with its Nikki Beach project in the emirate.
CEO Sameh Al Muhtadi said: "Our task now is not only to meet this demand, but to exceed expectations by further enhancing this prestigious destination."
Connectivity: Water Transit Across Mina Al Arab
A key feature of the Raha Island plan is its connectivity. Residents and visitors will have access to complimentary water transit linking the island to the wider Mina Al Arab development. Hydrofoil services are also planned to connect the island to other emirates, making Raha Island accessible without relying solely on road infrastructure.
Why It Matters for RAK Real Estate
Raha Island reinforces Ras Al Khaimah's strategy of developing distinct island and waterfront addresses that compete with Dubai's established luxury market. For buyers and investors watching the RAK real estate boom, the project adds a significant new option — one anchored by a confirmed hotel pipeline and public beach access, rather than off-plan speculation alone.
RAK Properties expects Raha Island to further cement Mina Al Arab's position as a premier lifestyle address in the Northern Emirates.
