Philippa Harrison appointed CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority

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The Government of Ras Al Khaimah has announced the appointment of Philippa Harrison, a leading global tourism expert, as the new CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

Ms Harrison, who previously headed Tourism Australia, will oversee the strategy to promote Ras Al Khaimah as a ‘tourism destination of the future’, drawing on her many years of experience in international tourism in Australia and other global markets.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Executive Committee of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), said: “Tourism is at the heart of the emirate’s development strategy: it is our fastest growing sector and we have already achieved impressive results in a short period of time. Ms Harrison brings a wealth of knowledge and significant leadership experience, including a stint with Tourism Australia, to the role, which will enable her to successfully deliver on Ras Al Khaimah’s ambitious tourism goals and strategic objectives.” Commenting on her appointment, Ms Harrison said: “I am honoured to join the team at such an important time. Ras Al Khaimah has already established itself as a successful international tourism brand and I am very enthusiastic about supporting the emirate’s continued tourism growth.”

Ms. Harrison’s appointment will further support the Ras Al Khaimah government’s ambition to cement the emirate’s status as a recognised global leader in sustainable tourism. The emirate has already welcomed a record 650,000 tourists in the first half of 2025 and aims to attract more than 3.5 million annually by 2030.

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) was established in May 2011 under the Government of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. RAKTDA’s main mission is to develop the emirate’s tourism infrastructure and position it as a global tourism destination.