Country Profile

This chapter provides information about RAK’s geography, economy, population, natural resources and political system. It also includes an overview of the large-scale development programmes that have been put in place in RAK over the past 10 years – projects that have aided the emirate’s reputation as an up-and-coming player in the Middle East and further afield. The industrial sector, which today accounts for a majority of the emirate’s export revenues, is the result of a great deal of long-term planning by the state. Furthermore, RAK has a number of competitive advantages for industrial development, including a prime location on the Strait of Hormuz and a substantial amount of undeveloped, affordable land. To secure economic growth, RAK is focusing on expanding water supply, as well as its number of power plants. Looking ahead, RAK’s reputation as an up-and coming regional leader in higher education could also be a major advantage in the wake of the Arab Spring; the emirate can expect to see increased interest from investors seeking calm markets. This chapter includes an interview with Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, the crown prince.