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Gili Lankanfushi Maldives receives Gold Certification from EarthCheck
Pioneering Maldivian luxury resort Gili Lankanfushi Maldives recently received Gold Certification from EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group for sustainable travel and tourism. The gold certification follows the resort’s silver certification in 2017 and bronze certification in 2015, a testament to Gili Lankanfushi’s enduring commitment to building and strengthening its sustainability practices for over more than a decade. The prestigious certification recognises properties which have demonstrated a lasting commitment to sustainability, meeting key EarthCheck benchmarks across energy, water and paper use, carbon emissions, waste, chemicals and community and employee impact. Gili Lankanfushi is one of only three resorts in the Maldives that have earned the accolade. Resort manager Rodrigo Buanafina said of the certification: “We are extremely proud to have achieved Gold Certification by EarthCheck in recognition of our ongoing commitment to sustainability here at Gili Lankanfushi. Gili is passionate about preserving the natural beauty and ecosystems of this natural paradise, which is why we are so committed to reducing our environmental impact. Our numerous sustainability initiatives, including our Eco Centre and world-famous Coral Lines project, which our guests love to get involved in, are at the heart of what we do, to ensure the wonder of The Maldives can be enjoyed for many more generations to come.” At the right time The certification comes at a pivotal time in Gili Lankanfushi’s sustainability journey, with the resort recently unveiling a state-of-the-art Eco-Centre. A complete renovation of the island’s previous structure, the centre comprises extensive recycling and composting facilities alongside a ‘Gili Veshi’ Marine Biology Shack. The recent addition of the Eco-Centre includes a food composter that digests food and garden waste, in turn generating the compost the resort uses to fertilise its Organic Garden, where a selection of herbs, spice and lettuce are grown and used for dishes in Executive Chef Harinath Govindaraj’s popular plant-based menu. There is also a glass-crushing machine, which creates construction materials from glass waste, while a compacting machine compresses tin and aluminum that is later recycled. Guests can participate in these efforts via a variety of local handicraft workshops, creating special souvenirs they can treasure long after they return home. Sustainability at Gili Lankanfushi Sustainability is at the heart of Gili Lankanfushi’s vision, with an emphasis on preserving the natural environment, protecting the fragile marine ecosystem and leaving only footprints behind. Conservation is taken seriously by the island’s dedicated marine biology team who monitor the health and biodiversity of the surrounding coral reef ecosystems, measuring light intensity and sea surface temperature, identifying and tracking manta ray and turtle populations, removing invasive Crown of Thorns starfish, and educating guests about the underwater world through lectures and guided snorkelling trips. Gili Lankanfushi’s Coral Lines project provides a nursery environment for new corals to grow, bolstering the house reef and monitoring health and survival types across coral genotypes. Guests have the opportunity to participate in the famed conservation project, where they learn about coral reef restoration and rehabilitation, visit the nursing coral on ropes and can even adopt a coral. All buildings are constructed using sustainably sourced plantation teak, palm wood and bamboo in addition to recycled telegraph poles. All rooms provide organic toiletries in refillable earthenware containers, to minimise plastic use and wastage, while the island’s dedicated desalinisation plant is used to provide glass bottles of still and sparkling water for all guests.
Amilla Maldives receives fourth consecutive EarthCheck silver certification
Island resort Amilla Maldives received additional industry-leading recognition for its continued commitment to sustainability after it garnered its fourth consecutive Silver certification from EarthCheck. More recently, Amilla Maldives became one of only five Maldivian resorts to be included in Forbes Travel Guide’s VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality 2025 programme. Designed in collaboration with renowned hotelier and sustainability pioneer, Hervé Houdré, this specific programme provides clearly defined best practices to protect the environment and support the wellbeing of employees, guests and the community, encompassing areas such as food and water waste management, sustainable amenities, recycling, energy usage, health security, and integration with the local community and culture. Operating with nature at the core In 2024, Amilla’s ongoing commitment to balancing sustainability with natural luxury experiences saw the introduction of refillable, PCR-packaged, vegan-friendly luxury amenities from cult Swedish brand 16-69 and Dutch social enterprise Marie-Stella Maris; alongside reusable silicone Rolla Bottles for guests’ use during and beyond their stay. The resort also embarked on a collaboration with local NGO Atoll Marine Centre (AMC) to support its work on coral restoration projects and gathering vital data on turtles, mantas, and sharks. The resort proactively invites guests to participate in coral planting excursions with the resort’s Marine Biologist and adopt a coral frame to receive monthly updates on its progress. A foray into conservation and optimising available resources Most recently, a new collaboration with the University of Auckland marked a significant step forward in the conservation of white-tailed tropicbirds. As part of this initiative, the Amilla team successfully GPS-tagged 13 birds and ringed 17 others. Weighing just one per cent of the bird’s body weight, the GPS tags allow researchers to monitor feeding patterns; while the rings are designed to identify individual birds, making it possible to track behaviour and migratory patterns. Amilla’s dedication to sustainability also plays a significant part in its culinary experiences, notably through its Homegrown@Amilla and Homemade@Amilla initiatives. Fresh produce such as herbs, vegetables, and mushrooms are cultivated in the resort’s own organic gardens; while Homemade@Amilla products including yoghurts, jams, pickles, sauces, probiotic sodas, tonics, and plant-based milks are also made by hand on-island. In November 2024, the resort reported a 48.17 percent year-on-year reduction in overall food waste, and a 37.5 percent decrease in food waste per person, compared to November 2023. An ongoing effort to deploy digital solutions to minimise paper use in guest areas saw the amount of paper used for printing reduced from 2,289 reams in 2023 to 1,505 reams in 2024. Community engagement is also a vital part of Amilla Maldives’ ethos, with the resort committed to conducting a minimum of one community activity each month. In 2024, these included a clean-up of Kihaadho Beach and reef; showcasing local artisanal businesses at the resort; inviting three local schools to sessions at the Amilla Football Academy; and donating 1,740 palm trees to the Maldivian islands of Kihadhoo and Maalhos.
Atlantis Dubai achieves Earthcheck Gold and Silver Certifications
Atlantis, The Palm and Aquaventure World attain prestigious EarthCheck Gold Certification, while Atlantis The Royal earns EarthCheck Silver Certification just one year after opening. Atlantis Dubai is proud to announce that Atlantis, The Palm and Aquaventure World have each achieved EarthCheck Gold Certification, a testament to five years of continuous excellence in sustainability practices. This marks the first time both properties have earned Gold status following a rigorous audit across all areas of operation. In addition, Atlantis The Royal has attained EarthCheck Silver Certification following its inaugural audit, just one year after opening its doors. These achievements position Atlantis Dubai amongst a select, global group of sustainable tourism operators that are certified to EarthCheck’s Company Standard. Paul Baker, President of Atlantis, said: “Achieving EarthCheck Gold for Atlantis, The Palm and Aquaventure World, and EarthCheck Silver for Atlantis The Royal, is a proud moment for Atlantis Dubai. We remain diligent across the destination to increase our sustainability efforts every year, as we continue our journey to become a leader in responsible tourism. These accomplishments reflect the hard work of our teams and underscore our ongoing commitment to do business in ways that are good for both people and the planet.” EarthCheck is recognised as the world's leading scientific benchmarking, certification, and business advisory group focused on travel and tourism. It helps businesses, communities, and governments to evaluate their environmental footprint, improve sustainability and ultimately enhance business performance. Atlantis, The Palm and Aquaventure World have spent the past five years implementing and refining sustainability initiatives that have led to the current Gold Certification, while Atlantis The Royal demonstrated outstanding commitment by achieving Silver Certification in the first auditing year for the property. The EarthCheck certification process is driven by a dedicated Green Committee, which work tirelessly to report high volumes of data backed with supporting evidence. The Green Committee has representatives from high-impact business units across Atlantis Dubai in order to drive maximum change. Atlantis, The Palm, Aquaventure World, and Atlantis The Royal were required to report data for the year 2023 on waste management, energy and water conservation strategies, and community contributions, amongst others. With exponential improvements over the years, some of the notable achievements as commended by EarthCheck include: Atlantis, The Palm reduced Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions per room night by 27.1% – this is attributed to 2,172 solar panels that contribute 1.18 MW of renewable solar energy to the destination’s electricity use. Freshwater systems across Atlantis Dubai are integrated with specialised filters, which contribute toward significant water savings, up to 90%. Innovative recycling programmes across Atlantis Dubai include discarded oyster shells made into coral reef structures to support marine health, cigarette butts recycled into valuable building material and discarded soap transformed into new soap and donated to communities in need. Food waste management practices include the installation of Winnow AI Technology to measure and reduce food waste, which has resulted in more than 40% reduction of food waste from buffets across the destination. Atlantis Dubai has partnered with Seafood Souk to use the SFS Trace digital platform to enhance seafood traceability in its commitment to 100% seafood traceability by December 2024. All restaurant menus consist of a minimum of five dishes where the main ingredient is locally sourced, organic, or certified sustainable. Atlantis Dubai recycled more than 1,144 tonnes of cardboard, glass, paper and plastic in 2023. In the destination’s commitment to eliminating single use plastic water bottles, filtered water stations have been installed across Atlantis, The Palm and Aquaventure World. 126,600L of used cooking oil across Atlantis Dubai was recycled into biofuel. Aquaventure World switched from single-use wristbands to reusable RFID-enabled silicone wristbands that enhanced guest experience while reducing waste to landfill by eliminating 1.9 million single-use wrist bands since launch in September 2023. 100% of paper products including office paper, tissues, retail bags and paper-based food containers used at Atlantis Dubai come from FSC certified sources. Atlantis Dubai is the first resort destination in the Middle East to be accredited as an IBCCES Certified Autism Centre. More than 90% of guest-facing colleagues from restaurants, rooms and housekeeping and lifeguards are trained in autism and sensory awareness. All marine animal experiences are underpinned by research to determine the educational value of the experiences and guest learnings through pre and post experience surveys. Atlantis Dubai contributes $1 USD from every marine animal experience participated in by a guest to support partners driving conservation and sustainability. Atlantis Dubai continues to push boundaries to become a more efficient, effective, and responsible organisation. EarthCheck’s in-depth process for certification further highlights the destination’s commitment to accountability while ensuring continuous improvement of operations toward environmental and social sustainability.
Patina Maldives earns 2024 EarthCheck Silver Certification
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands received the EarthCheck Silver certification for the second year in a row. This milestone highlights Patina Maldives’ dedication to environmentally conscious practices and business excellence that positively impacts people and place. General manager Antonio Saponara said of the certification: "As we celebrate the EarthCheck Silver Certification for 2024, we reaffirm our resolute commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship. This accolade underscores our dedication to perpetuality, marking a pivotal step towards a more sustainable future for Patina Maldives.” Patina Maldives distinguished itself through several sustainability and conservation programmes that have enabled it to protect its natural environment. These include the installation of Swimsol solar panels to ensure a constant supply of clean energy; coral conservation and ghost nets in coastal waters; as well as the use of mass engineered timber (MET) and other sustainable materials for the premises.
Luxury Resort Laguna Lang Co retains EarthCheck “Gold Certification” for 2024
Laguna Lang Co has reaffirmed its position as one of Vietnam’s leading sustainable luxury lifestyle hubs by retaining its EarthCheck “Gold Certification” for 2024. As one of Asia’s most ambitious integrated resorts, Laguna Lang Co encompasses the acclaimed Banyan Tree Lang Co and Angsana Lang Co hotels, along with Laguna Golf Lang Co, a Sir Nick Faldo Signature Design. Located in a region celebrated for its pristine nature, Laguna Lang Co maintains a focus on sustainability in line with Banyan Group’s emphasis on environmental stewardship. And the retention of EarthCheck Gold status for the 9th consecutive year underscores the resort's commitment to sustainability. “Here at Laguna Lang Co, we are fortunate to enjoy one of the most beautiful locations in Vietnam,” said Gavin Herholdt, Managing Director of Laguna Lang Co. “With such privilege comes deep responsibility, and we are proud that our efforts have once again been recognized by EarthCheck.” The property is onboard with Banyan Group’s new Stay For Good program which invites guests at its various destinations globally to experience the world authentically. At Laguna Lang Co, biodiversity and ecosystem conservation is a focus. The property is home to 15 different bird species including the Bar-Bellied Pitta and Davison’s Leaf Warbler. Guests can explore the resort and learn more about the winged residents. Other eco-conscious activities under the program include forest walks, excursions to local farms to witness sustainable local agricultural practices, and cycle rides to local fishing villages. Back at the award-winning Angsana Lang Co hotel, a Bird Photo Gallery features images contributed by bird photographers taken at the resort and nearby locations around Lang Co Bay. “Under Stay For Good, we want our guests to fully immerse in the beautiful nature of Lang Co and experience the heritage and traditions of local communities,” added Herholdt. Other notable sustainability initiatives at Laguna Lang Co include a ban on single-use plastics and its “edible golf course,” featuring rice fields tended by water buffalos. Additional measures include the installation of a plant to replace plastic bottles with reusable glass ones, and a filtration factory to save further on water usage. Approximately 31% of the water currently used at the property is recycled. Connections with the local community are also a priority. Outreach includes organizing golf clinics for local children, prioritizing the purchase of locally-sourced food and ingredients, employing people from the Lang Co vicinity, and stocking local products. Indeed, 80% of the goods sold at resort galleries are sourced locally. Recently, the property has introduced a pledge to reduce meat production and consumption by introducing a minimum of one meat-free day per month at the project’s associate canteen, while F&B outlets across the board have widened their variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Laguna Lang Co also offers English for Fun classes and operates a kindergarten for children of staff. “We will continue to prioritize environmental protection and community engagement,” added Herholdt. “We are committed to leading the industry in sustainability here in Vietnam. Our journey can help deliver impactful projects and initiatives aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals.”
Ras Al Khaimah awarded EarthCheck Silver Certification in a Sustainability First for the Middle East
Ras Al Khaimah was awarded Silver Certification under EarthCheck’s Sustainable Destinations program - the world’s leading scientific benchmarking and certification program for tourism destinations. The emirate is the first destination in the Middle East to earn this level of recognition for sustainability. The certification process is underpinned by EarthCheck’s in-depth scientific criteria and also involves meticulous monitoring, benchmarking, and auditing across 10 sustainability indicators – from energy and water consumption to waste management, carbon footprint analysis and community engagement. Ras Al Khaimah’s sustainability certification is all the more significant considering the challenges posed by the region’s climate, calling for a more robust approach to managing energy and water consumption than most in order to meet EarthCheck’s stringent requirements. The Silver Certification comes just weeks out from the United Nations’ climate change conference COP28, being held in the UAE in late November. The conference agenda this year will focus on achieving the global emissions reduction target of 43% by 2030. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) Chief Executive Officer, Raki Phillips, said that achieving EarthCheck’s Silver Certification reinforced Ras Al Khaimah’s ambition to become the UAE’s and the region’s sustainable tourism leader by 2025. "This landmark achievement amplifies our commitment to sustainable, balanced, and purpose-driven tourism industry growth,” Phillips said. “My gratitude goes out to our tourism community for their relentless dedication to achieving EarthCheck’s Silver Certification, which not only substantiates Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to sustainable tourism but also aligns with our ambitious goal of welcoming over three million visitors by 2030.” EarthCheck founder and Chief Executive Officer, Stewart Moore, said Ras Al Khaimah’s Silver status would bolster and enhance its tourism industry and its business operators locally. "Congratulations to Ras Al Khaimah for being certified under EarthCheck’s Sustainable Destination program, and for being a part of EarthCheck’s Leading Destinations of the World Program™,” Moore said. “The destination management commitments and sustainable tourism guidelines not only provide a strategic framework to drive and foster action across the community and industry, but they position Ras Al Khaimah as a regional leader in sustainable tourism. Embracing sustainable principles will ensure that Ras Al Khaimah’s unique environment and rich culture can be both fostered and protected as the tourism industry continues to grow. EarthCheck looks forward to being an active partner in this journey.” Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has also launched its own sustainability certification program for tourism businesses, Responsible RAK. Over 20 tourism businesses are part of the program today. ResponsibleRAK is powered by EarthCheck’s science and data, ensuring businesses are measuring their environmental impact and taking real action. Numerous Ras Al Khaimah tourism businesses, including hotels, attractions and tour operators have earned Responsible RAK Silver Certification. The list includes: Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach The Cove Rotana Resort Ras Al Khaimah Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline Jais Sledder, the region’s longest toboggan ride 1484 by Puro, the UAE’s highest restaurant Bear Grylls Explorers Camp RAK Leisure Administration Office SAFARAK Travel and Tour company More stakeholders are set to achieve Responsible RAK Silver status in the near future. The destination is also partnering with leading developers and operators that put sustainability at the heart of their business. One example is the eagerly anticipated Wynn Al Marjan Island, which will be developed with local partners Marjan LLC and RAK Hospitality Holding LLC., to the highest standards of sustainability best practice. Wynn Resorts’ sustainable design and development practices have earned its buildings LEED Platinum and Four Green Globes certifications globally.
IHCL revolutionising tourism with EarthCheck certification
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has set a global benchmark for environmental sustainability with eight of its hotels achieving Platinum Certification and 60 hotels achieving Gold Certification by EarthCheck; the world’s leading scientific benchmark, certification and business advisory group for the tourism and travel industry. "Keeping communities at the heart of doing business." Commenting on the achievement, Dr. PV Murthy, executive vice president & global head - human resources, IHCL said, “The company’s conscious efforts towards sustainability are aligned with the Tata ethos of keeping communities at the heart of doing business. This globally significant milestone reiterates IHCL’s firm commitment to safeguard the environment.” "Since 2008, a total of 78 EarthCheck certified hotels have generated significant savings by conserving water, energy and installing organic waste converters to reduce waste sent to landfill," he added. The hotels that achieved EarthCheck Platinum Certification represent 10 continuous years of measuring and monitoring their social and environmental impact to ensure sustainable tourism management practices. These include Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa, Taj Lands End, Mumbai, President, Mumbai, Taj MG Road, Bengaluru, Taj West End, Bengaluru, Ambassador, New Delhi and Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives.
Tourism Tropical North Queensland releases first Sustainability Report
Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) just published its first annual Sustainability Report which details the key initiatives guiding the industry towards reducing carbon emissions whilst contributing to the local environment and community. TTNQ CEO Mark Olsen said the industry had taken many steps forward in recent years after establishing the brand promise in 2020 that visitors would: See Great, Leave Greater. Olsen said: “Global expectations are rising for the tourism industry to move beyond providing experiences to ensuring that tourism is sustainable and contributing to the future of our natural environments and our communities.” He added that the TTNQ Sustainability Report 2024 highlights that Tropical North Queensland has the greatest number of eco-accredited businesses in any region in Australia and one of the highest in the world. Currently, the region has 84 operators and 191 experiences with Ecotourism or EarthCheck accreditation, accounting for 21 percent of the total membership at TTNQ. On the way to Net Zero According to Olsen: “The region is on-track to reach its Net Zero aspiration in 2050 by aiming to reduce the average carbon emissions per visitor from 55kg per day to 42kg in 2032 through the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel, emissions reductions by businesses through solar, reducing waste to landfill and transitioning to renewables.” As of press time, at least 20 percent of TTNQ members are measuring and offsetting their impacts through local conservation programs such as Reforest's Mabi forest rehabilitation for the endangered tree kangaroo on the Atherton Tablelands. A part-time Sustainability Coordinator was also appointed in September 2023 to support members on their sustainability journey, and the board established a Sustainability Leaders Cluster Group which has increased from 71 to 113 members in the past year. Involving the First Nations Olsen said: “The TNQ First Nations Tourism Plan was launched in May 2023 recognising that all tourism is on Country, supporting Indigenous experiences to develop, and encouraging more visitors to connect with culture, and since then the number of Indigenous experiences in the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse has almost tripled from 12 to 32.” Likewise, TTNQ uses media and marketing activities to help the public to understand challenges that are beyond control, such as bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef, and how they can be more involved in making a difference so they can See Great and Leave Greater. Initiatives like the Guardian of the Reef program add value by rewarding consumers for learning about the Reef and its challenges. This programme earned AU$7 million in accredited product sales last year with 55,000 people using the platform delivering 18,000 bookings, while more than 60 global media articles worth $20 million reached 200 million people around the world. Olsen concluded by saying: “The sustainability journey is a long one, but it is a journey that TTNQ and our members are committed to as we continue to promote our unique destination to the world with the promise that every visitor will not only see great, but they will also leave greater knowing they have contributed to the protection and management of World Heritage areas.”
Ras Al Khaimah witnessed 1.28 million overnight arrivals in 2024
Building on a track record of remarkable achievements, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) reports its strongest year ever, welcoming a record-high 1.28 million overnight arrivals in 2024, marking 12% growth in tourism revenues and a notable 15% rise in MICE visitors. This success is a testament to the Emirate’s strategic and sustainable growth vision to attract over 3.5 million annual visitors by 2030. Commenting on the Emirate’s achievements, Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “2024 was a milestone year for Ras Al Khaimah, showcasing our commitment to sustainability, enhanced connectivity, and diverse experiences tailored to every traveller. Looking ahead, our vision extends beyond attracting more visitors; we aim to position Ras Al Khaimah as a destination of the future. With significant investments, world-class events, and groundbreaking developments on the horizon, 2025 is set to be another remarkable year. Several factors contributed to this robust performance in 2024, including the opening new hotels and resorts, a growing calendar of international events, increased connectivity to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, best-in-class marketing campaigns and over 2,200 international activities and market engagements across 70 cities. Ras Al Khaimah’s key achievements in 2024 include: Record-breaking visitor numbers: 1.28 million overnight arrivals, marking 12% growth of tourism revenues and 15% rise in MICE visitors. Global recognition for sustainability: RAKTDA’s sustainability programme was named the ‘Middle East’s Most Sustainable Project’ at the Forbes Middle East 2024 Sustainability Leaders’ Summit. This recognition underscores its status as the region’s first destination to earn the EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations Silver Certification and its leadership in sustainable tourism through initiatives like Responsible RAK, its own certification programme for hotels and tourism business. Enhanced connectivity: Boosted accessibility to the Emirate with the introduction of new direct flights from key cities in Poland, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Romania, Czech Republic, Russia, Saudi Arabia and India, enhancing connectivity through Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. Expanded hospitality offerings: The opening of Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort and Anantara Mina Al Arab Resort introduced new luxury experiences, including the Emirate’s first overwater villas. Exceptional events: From the third HIGHLANDER Adventure hiking challenge and Ras Al Khaimah Golf Championship to the Arab Aviation Summit and Global Citizen Forum held for four consecutive years, Ras Al Khaimah continues to host world-class events. Highlights also include the 16th Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, the HUAWEI AppGallery Gamers Cup, and the launch of the Seven Wonders experiential concert series. Record-breaking New Year’s Eve celebrations: The emirate ushered in 2025 with a spectacular fireworks and drone display, setting two new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ titles: ‘Largest aerial display of a tree formed by multi-rotor drones’ and ‘Largest aerial image of a seashell formed by drone’. Workplace excellence: For the fourth consecutive year, RAKTDA was certified as a Great Place to Work®, recognised in multiple categories: ‘Best Workplaces in the Middle East’, ‘Best Workplaces in Hospitality™ in the GCC’, and ‘Best Workplaces for Women in the GCC’. Empowering local talent: RAKTDA’s inaugural Emirati Hospitality Programme, in partnership with Career Lab and the Swiss University of Les Roches, graduated 18 Emirati youth, equipping them for leadership roles in the tourism sector, supporting nationalization efforts in the hospitality industry. Driving growth in key markets Ras Al Khaimah continues to diversify and expand its reach in both established and emerging markets, with the CIS, GCC, Europe, India and China remaining core to its strategy. In 2024, the Emirate achieved new milestones in market engagement, further solidifying its position as a global tourism destination. New direct flights introduced enhanced connectivity to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport from nine cities including Moscow, Russia; Bucharest, Romania; Tashkent, Uzbekistan; Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Prague, Czech Republic; Warsaw and Katowice, Poland; Almaty, Kazakhstan; and Hyderabad, India. China has also emerged as a significant growth market. In 2024, RAKTDA boosted visibility in China through strategic initiatives including collaborations with Huawei Group and prominent Chinese travel platform Trip.com plus establishing a robust presence on Chinese social media platforms such as WeChat, Red, and Douyin. These efforts have earned RAKTDA notable recognitions, including Best Global Partner and Outstanding Strategic Partner of the Year by Trip.com, as well as the title of Fastest-Growing Tourism Destination from Huawei Petal Ads, reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah's position as a rising destination for Chinese travelers. Expanding hospitality portfolio Ras Al Khaimah’s flourishing tourism sector is underpinned by its strategic focus on building a diverse hospitality portfolio with a well-balanced mix of internationally branded luxury hotels and family-friendly resorts. In 2024, the Emirate welcomed two new luxury properties, further establishing its reputation as a destination of choice. Anantara Mina Al Arab Resort, featuring the Emirate’s first overwater villas, and the Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort opened their doors, adding to Ras Al Khaimah’s world-class hospitality portfolio. Additionally, existing properties underwent transformative enhancements. Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Pullman Marjan Island were rebranded and upgraded to meet the highest standards of hospitality, offering visitors elevated experiences. A world-class destination for events In 2024, Ras Al Khaimah experienced a remarkable 15% year-over-year growth in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) visitor numbers, reinforcing its status as a premier MICE destination. This success is attributed to several strategic initiatives by RAKTDA, including over 80 international MICE activities and market engagements across 20 markets. Key initiatives include a comprehensive MICE and Wedding incentive programs, the launch of an online training platform for MICE agents and Wedding Planners, and the introduction of the MICE playbook. The free visa initiative has also facilitated easier access for Indian MICE groups and wedding celebrations. Additionally, strategic partnerships with international Professional Congress Organizers (PCOs), Incentive Houses, Associations, Wedding Planners, and corporate travel agencies have been instrumental in this achievement. Events tourism was another key pillar of Ras Al Khaimah’s 2024 success. The Emirate hosted several internationally acclaimed events such as the third HIGHLANDER long-distance hiking challenge, the 16th Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, the third Ras Al Khaimah Golf Championship, the fourth Global Citizen Forum and Arab Aviation Summit, the HUAWEI AppGallery Gamers Cup, and the launch event of the Seven Wonders experiential concert series, headlined by world-renowned DJ Armin Van Buuren. Building on this success, 2025 will see the Seven Wonders concert series continue, featuring seven international acts who will perform across seven iconic Ras Al Khaimah destinations over seven weeks. The immersive audio and visual platform will provide an experience unlike any other, further cementing Ras Al Khaimah status as a global events destination. The year concluded with a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration, earning two GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ titles for its breathtaking fireworks and drone display: ‘Largest aerial display of a tree formed by multi-rotor drones’ and ‘Largest aerial image of a seashell formed by drone’. Building a sustainable future In 2024, RAKTDA’s initiatives earned the title of ‘Middle East’s Most Sustainable Project’ at the Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders’ Summit, highlighting the destination's achievement of the Middle East's first Silver Certification by EarthCheck and the Authority's pioneering efforts in responsible tourism. Sustainability efforts extend to cultural preservation, with RAKTDA building its Cultural and Heritage Vision in 2024 – a road map that will preserve 20 of the Emirate’s 80+ historical and archaeological sites that date back as far as the Bronze Age. By developing these sites as key attractions to provide more authentic experiences for visitors and empowering Emiratis to actively participate in tourism, Ras Al Khaimah will ensure its unique heritage is preserved for future generations. Another focus area was accessible tourism with RAKTDA setting sights on ensuring Ras Al Khaimah becomes a truly accessible destination. The Authority partnered with Sage Inclusion, a global accessible travel expert, to undertake the largest accessibility assessment of its kind in the Middle East. A comprehensive 12-week audit took place end of 2024, covering over 40 hotels, 10 attractions, Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, and ground transportation, evaluating accessibility across various disability categories including mobility, vision, hearing, cognitive and allergy. The initiative aims to elevate Ras Al Khaimah as a flagship destination for accessible tourism, ensuring that every visitor can fully enjoy and explore the emirate. Live, work, thrive: a holistic destination Beyond attracting visitors, Ras Al Khaimah is committed to becoming an exceptional place to live and thrive. The Emirate’s balanced approach to sustainable tourism ensures that growth is achieved without compromising its unique culture. This vision has already garnered global recognition, with Ras Al Khaimah ranked among the top ten cities for expats in the InterNations City Ranking 2024. It was also named the world’s best city for expats to get started abroad, second for working overseas, and fifth for ease of settling in. RAKTDA was also certified as a Great Place to Work® for the fourth consecutive year, with accolades in the categories of Best Workplaces in the Middle East, Best Workplaces in Hospitality™ in the GCC, and Best Workplaces for Women in the GCC. The success of its inaugural Emirati Hospitality Programme, in partnership with Career Lab and Les Roches University, which graduated 18 local talents, underscores the Emirate’s dedication to nurturing future leaders in tourism.
Sustainable Travel: Eco-Friendly Destinations and Practices
In an era where environmental consciousness is more important than ever, sustainable travel has become a guiding principle for many globetrotters. By adopting eco-friendly practices and choosing destinations prioritising sustainability, travellers can enjoy their adventures while minimising their environmental footprint. Here’s a guide to sustainable travel featuring tips, destinations, accommodations, and activities that help protect our planet. Tips for Sustainable Travel Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation Opt for direct flights to reduce carbon emissions or consider taking the train for shorter distances. Use public transportation, walk, or bike when exploring your destination to reduce your carbon footprint. Pack Light Lighter luggage means less fuel consumption for planes, cars, and other modes of transport. Bring only what you need and avoid single-use plastics by packing reusable items like water bottles and shopping bags. Stay in Eco-Friendly Accommodations Look for hotels and lodges that prioritise sustainability through energy-efficient practices, waste reduction, and support for local communities. Certifications like LEED, Green Key, and EarthCheck can help identify eco-friendly accommodations. Support Local Businesses Choose local restaurants, shops, and tour operators to support the community and reduce the environmental impact of importing goods and services. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Practice the three R’s even while travelling. Avoid single-use plastics, recycle whenever possible, and reuse items to minimise waste. Respect Wildlife and Natural Habitats Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid activities that exploit animals. Stick to designated trails to protect natural habitats and ecosystems. Conserve Water and Energy Take shorter showers, turn off lights and electronics when not in use, and participate in towel and linen reuse programs at hotels to conserve resources. Eco-Friendly Destinations Costa Rica Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, Costa Rica offers eco-lodges, organic farms, and protected national parks. Explore rainforests, volcanoes, and pristine beaches while supporting conservation efforts. New Zealand New Zealand is a haven for nature lovers with its stunning landscapes and focus on eco-tourism. Stay in eco-friendly accommodations, hike through protected national parks, and experience Maori culture sustainably. Iceland Iceland’s geothermal energy and commitment to renewable resources make it a leader in sustainable travel. Enjoy its breathtaking natural wonders, including glaciers, waterfalls, and hot springs, while minimising environmental impact. Slovenia Slovenia’s green tourism initiatives have earned it a reputation as an eco-friendly destination. Discover its lush forests, pristine lakes, and charming villages, all while supporting sustainable practices. Bhutan With a focus on Gross National Happiness and environmental preservation, Bhutan offers a unique travel experience. Visit its monasteries, hike through scenic landscapes, and support local crafts and traditions. Eco-Friendly Accommodations Soneva Fushi, Maldives This luxurious eco-resort is dedicated to sustainability with solar power, waste reduction programs, and marine conservation initiatives. Whitepod, Switzerland Stay in cozy, eco-friendly pods with stunning mountain views. The resort practices energy conservation and offers sustainable outdoor activities. Daintree Ecolodge, Australia Nestled in the ancient Daintree Rainforest, this ecolodge offers eco-friendly accommodations and experiences that support rainforest conservation. Nkwichi Lodge, Mozambique This eco-lodge supports local communities and conservation efforts while offering stunning views of Lake Malawi and unique cultural experiences. Proximity Hotel, USA This LEED Platinum-certified hotel in North Carolina focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable practices. Eco-Friendly Activities Volunteering and Conservation Projects Participate in volunteer programs that support conservation efforts, such as wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, and community development projects. Eco-Tours and Nature Hikes Join guided eco-tours and nature hikes led by knowledgeable guides who prioritise environmental education and conservation. Snorkelling and Diving Explore marine ecosystems sustainably by choosing eco-certified snorkeling and diving tours that promote reef conservation and marine life protection. Farm-to-Table Dining Experiences Enjoy meals made from locally sourced, organic ingredients at farm-to-table restaurants and support sustainable agriculture. Cycling and Walking Tours Discover destinations at a slower pace with cycling and walking tours that reduce your carbon footprint and provide a deeper connection to the environment. Conclusion Sustainable travel is all about making conscious choices that protect and preserve our planet for future generations. By adopting eco-friendly practices and choosing destinations, accommodations, and activities that prioritise sustainability, you can enjoy meaningful travel experiences while minimizing your environmental impact. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the world responsibly and inspire others to do the same.
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