Raki Phillips named among Hozpitality's Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2023
Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, has been recognized as one of the Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East by Hozpitality Group.
Raki Phillips, the CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), is a visionary leader entrusted with the task of expanding the destination’s tourism infrastructure and sustainability investments. With a bold vision to position Ras Al Khaimah as the ‘Destination of the Future’, Phillips is dedicated to elevating the emirate’s tourism contribution from 5% to one-third of its economy by 2030, with a goal to attract over 3 million visitors.
In his role, Phillips has spearheaded hotel and project developments across the emirate, aiming to enhance industry performance and improve the quality of life for Ras Al Khaimah’s residents. Notably, he secured the largest Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Ras Al Khaimah's history – a groundbreaking USD $3.9 billion deal with Wynn Resorts to develop a 1,500-plus-key integrated resort on Al Marjan Island.
With over two decades of experience, Phillips has an impressive track record working with renowned brands such as Ritz-Carlton Hotels, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International (FRHI), and Universal Studios Orlando. He is not only a tourism industry expert but also a serial entrepreneur. He pioneered the innovative online dessert concept, SugarMoo, in the Middle East and led the creation of the design-centric eco-friendly hotel brand, Earth Hotels.
Recognized for his exceptional contributions, Phillips was honored as one of Forbes Middle East’s ‘Top 100 Travel & Tourism Leaders’ in 2023 and named the Businessperson of the Year at the Arabian Business Achievement Awards 2023. Apart from his role at RAKTDA, he actively participates in various industry boards, including the Executive Board of RAK International Airport, the UAE Energy and Sustainability Summit Advisory Board, the Ministry of Culture UNESCO Committee in Abu Dhabi, World Travel Tourism Council (WTTC) Board in the UK, and the Pacific Asia Travel Association in Singapore.
Phillips, an American national and fluent Arabic speaker, holds a BSc in Business Administration from the University of Central Florida and an MA in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix in Orlando. His expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication have made him a driving force in the tourism industry, shaping the future of Ras Al Khaimah as a premier global destination.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE