Last Updated on August 11, 2024 by Vadim
In the ever-evolving landscape of the UAE’s job market, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is emerging as a shining star in the hospitality sector. With projections indicating a significant surge in employment opportunities, RAK is poised to become a hotspot for job seekers in the coming years. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting development and what it means for professionals looking to build a career in hospitality.
The Numbers Tell a Promising Story
According to the latest RAK Investment Pulse report by Stirling Hospitality Advisors, the emirate’s hospitality sector is on track for remarkable growth:
- By 2030, the number of premium and luxury hotel rooms in RAK is expected to triple.
- This expansion will drive the workforce in the sector to approximately 25,200 employees.
- The emirate’s GDP is projected to grow by an impressive 80% by 2030.
- RAK’s population is anticipated to increase by 55%, reaching around 620,000, primarily due to an influx of expatriates.
These figures paint a picture of a rapidly expanding job market, especially in the hospitality industry.
The Wynn Effect: A Game-Changer for RAK’s Job Market
One of the most significant catalysts for this job boom is the upcoming Wynn development. This project alone is expected to:
- Create employment for around 7,000 people.
- More than double the current hospitality workforce by 2027.
This single development underscores the scale of growth RAK is preparing for in its hospitality sector.
Who’s Working in RAK’s Hospitality Sector?
The current workforce in RAK’s hospitality industry has some interesting characteristics:
- 88% of employees are in non-management roles.
- The majority of workers are aged 25 to 35.
- Many come from countries such as India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Philippines.
- High job satisfaction, absence of personal income tax, affordable housing, and quality of life are key factors attracting skilled workers to RAK.
Why RAK is Attracting Talent
Several factors make RAK an attractive destination for hospitality professionals:
- Growth Potential: 75% of workers are drawn by RAK’s growth prospects.
- Career and Financial Opportunities: 25% cite these as their primary motivation.
- Cost-Effective Living: Compared to Dubai, RAK offers:
- 5-15% lower salaries for middle and upper management.
- Up to 30% lower salaries for lower-level staff.
- 40-50% lower cost of living for employees.
- Residential lease rates in Dubai are consistently twice as high as in RAK.
- Average school fees in RAK are nearly 50% lower than in Dubai.
The Current State of RAK’s Hospitality Sector
- Four and five-star hotels make up 77% of the total hotel inventory.
- Full-time staff in these premium hotels comprise over 85% of RAK’s hospitality workforce.
Strategies for Staff Retention
To maintain this growth trajectory and retain top talent, Stirling Hospitality Advisors suggests several strategies:
- Competitive Compensation: Adjusting financial packages to keep pace with rising living costs.
- Attractive Benefits: Aligning benefits with those offered in larger emirates.
- Quality Accommodation: Improving housing standards with better amenities and recreational facilities.
- Career Advancement: Highlighting RAK’s potential for professional growth to attract ambitious individuals.
Expert Insights
Tatiana Veller, Managing Director of Stirling Hospitality Advisors, emphasizes the importance of employee satisfaction:
“Amid fierce competition in hotel development, attracting and retaining quality employees is imperative. Competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, quality of life initiatives, staff housing, and career advancement opportunities are pivotal factors.”
Jari Ylipaavalniemi, General Manager of RAK Hospitality Logistics, stresses the importance of work-life balance:
“The bright future of the RAK hospitality scene requires support for the staff’s lifestyles by the provision of modern, comfortable, and enticing homes and lifestyle offerings. Only if we give them the opportunity to recharge fully after work, will we be able to attract and retain the top talent in the emirate, who will make our guests happy.”
The Bigger Picture: RAK’s Economic Growth
The hospitality sector’s growth is part of a larger economic expansion in RAK:
- The emirate offers low operating costs for businesses.
- Corporate tax rates are competitive.
- Staffing costs are lower than the national average.
These factors combine to create a favorable environment for both businesses and employees in the hospitality sector.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges
As RAK’s hospitality sector expands, it will face both opportunities and challenges:
- Workforce Development: Training and upskilling programs will be crucial to meet the demand for skilled workers.
- Infrastructure Development: The emirate will need to continue improving its infrastructure to support the growing population and tourism industry.
- Sustainable Growth: Balancing rapid expansion with sustainable practices will be key to long-term success.
- Cultural Integration: With a diverse workforce, fostering a inclusive work environment will be essential.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Hospitality Professionals in RAK
As we look towards 2024 and beyond, Ras Al Khaimah stands out as a beacon of opportunity in the UAE’s hospitality sector. With its projected growth, competitive advantages, and focus on employee well-being, RAK is positioning itself as an ideal destination for hospitality professionals at all levels.
For job seekers in the hospitality industry, keeping an eye on developments in RAK could open doors to exciting career opportunities. As the emirate continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure and attract major international brands like Wynn, the future looks bright for those ready to be part of this thriving hospitality landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned hospitality professional or just starting your career, Ras Al Khaimah’s booming hospitality sector offers a unique blend of professional growth, quality of life, and economic benefits. As the emirate prepares to welcome thousands of new hospitality workers in the coming years, now might be the perfect time to consider RAK as your next career destination.
Vadim Kouznetsov is a distinguished entrepreneur and the visionary founder and CEO of JobXDubai.com, the UAE’s rapidly expanding job board. Renowned for his expertise in bridging the gap between job seekers and employment opportunities, Vadim has become a leading authority in the recruitment and job market of Dubai.
His innovative approach to matching candidates with their ideal roles has propelled JobXDubai.com to the forefront of the industry, making a significant impact on the region’s employment landscape.
Through his work, Vadim Kouznetsov has demonstrated a profound commitment to enhancing the job search experience, solidifying his status as a pivotal figure in the field of recruitment.