Raki Phillips Honored as Hozpitality's Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024
As CEO, Raki plays a key role in developing the tourism industry and promoting social and economic well-being in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
Hozpitality Group proudly recognizes Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), as one of the Top 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024.
In his role as CEO, Raki is instrumental in advancing the tourism sector and fostering economic and social prosperity in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
Raki's strategic vision includes the development of vital tourism infrastructure, oversight of licensing and regulations, and the creation of sustainable investment opportunities. Under his leadership, RAKTDA achieved an unprecedented milestone in 2022, welcoming 1.13 million visitors, marking the highest-ever visitor numbers for the destination.
With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Raki is a distinguished tourism veteran. He has held key positions at prestigious organizations such as Ritz-Carlton, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, and Universal Studios Orlando. His tenure at the International Hospitality Consulting (INHOCO) Group saw him spearhead hotel project pipelines exceeding USD $5 billion in assets. Additionally, he is the innovative mind behind SugarMoo, the region’s first online dessert delivery service.
Raki’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed; he was recognized by Forbes Middle East as one of the ‘Top 100 Travel & Tourism Leaders’ in 2023 and named Businessperson of the Year at the Arabian Business Achievement Awards 2023. His efforts in Ras Al Khaimah have not only increased visitor numbers but also enhanced the region's hospitality landscape. Raki has licensed and managed over 60 hotel properties, with a robust development pipeline exceeding 10,000 hotel room keys.
Moreover, he played a pivotal role in securing a significant $3.9 billion foreign direct investment deal with Wynn Resorts to develop an integrated resort on Marjan Island, introducing the first gaming component in the Middle East. Raki’s commitment to fostering a diverse and talented workforce is evident in his team of 80 employees from 24 countries, which has been recognized as one of the best workplaces in the region. Notable achievements include being ranked as the 11th Best Workplace for Women in the GCC and the 6th Best Workplace in the UAE in 2022.
Raki’s strategic initiatives have driven a remarkable 14% compound annual growth rate in revenues from 2019 to 2022, with tourism-related revenues exceeding $50 million in 2022, representing a 21% year-on-year increase. He has also significantly enhanced Ras Al Khaimah’s reputation as a premier MICE destination, securing high-profile events such as the PGA DP World Golf Championship, the UAE Tour Global Cycling Race, and the Global Citizen Forum.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE