The government of Ras Al Khamah in the UAE has appointed former managing director of Tourism Australia, Phillipa Harrison as the new CEO of its Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA). Having left Tourism Australia earlier this month, Harrison will now lead the effort to meet the emirate’s target of attracting 3.5m visitors a year.
Harrison replaces Raki Phillips who has left to take on a new leadership position at Accor.
RAKTDA chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Qasimi said: “Tourism is at the heart of Ras Al Khaimah’s strategy, it is our fastest-growing sector and we’ve achieved remarkable milestones in a short period of time. Ms Harrison brings with her a depth of knowledge and leadership experience, most recently with Tourism Australia, that gives us confidence in her ability to align with Ras Al Khaimah’s ambitious goals and strategic targets in the tourism sector.”
Harrison added: “Ras Al Khaimah has already established itself as an international success story, and I look forward to unlocking even more growth in the years ahead.”
The emirate welcomed a record 650,000 visitors in the first half of 2025.
