Rock giant aims expansion in UAE through venture in Ras Al Khaimah
**Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah: A New Luxury Destination in the UAE**
Hard Rock International is set to make its debut in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the development of the Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah. Located in the Beach District near Al Marjan Island, the mixed-use development is expected to open by the end of 2028.
The property will boast 300 hotel rooms and 395 branded residences, offering a variety of accommodation options. Amenities will include diverse dining options, waterfront dining, conference spaces, a rooftop bar, beach club, event venue, swimming pools, a fitness center, and a spa.
The project is a collaboration between Hard Rock International and HR Hotel FZ LLC, a joint venture between db Group and RAK Hospitality Holding (RAKHH). This development is expected to create approximately 500 permanent employment opportunities, contributing significantly to Ras Al Khaimah's economic diversification.
Alison Grinnel, CEO of RAK Hospitality Holding, aims to use her team's regional understanding to create a new growth catalyst in Ras Al Khaimah, positioning it as a "dynamic hub for tourism, leisure, and entertainment." Silvio Debono, chair of db Group, will also be involved in the project, marking his company's first major venture outside of Malta.
While specific gaming plans for the Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah have not been explicitly mentioned, the broader context of UAE entertainment and hospitality developments suggests that any gaming components would need careful consideration of local laws and cultural sensitivities. For instance, Dubai has recently started to explore gaming opportunities, but the UAE's stance on casino gaming remains contentious.
Todd Hricko, Hard Rock International's vice president, is looking forward to delivering Hard Rock's excellence to customers in the UAE. The new property will provide new opportunities for Hard Rock global travelers to explore a destination with rich history and nature.
As the Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah comes to fruition, it is set to enhance Ras Al Khaimah's status as a luxury and lifestyle destination, offering a unique blend of Hard Rock's signature style and the UAE's distinctive culture.
The collaboration between Hard Rock International and HR Hotel FZ LLC could potentially include a finance division to manage the project's funds, given the scale and scope of the Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah development. With the property's diverse offerings, including dining, entertainment, and leisure facilities, it could become a significant addition to home-and-garden magazines featuring travel articles about luxury destinations. If gaming components are part of the Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah's amenities, they may cater to a specific segment of travelers interested in integrating business and leisure, capitalizing on the growing trend in the travel industry.
