Ras Al Khaimah: The Tourism Development Authority of Ras Al Khaimah (RAKTDA) has successfully certified 19 graduates from the Tour Guide Training Program 2022.
RAKTDA had partnered with the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) – Centre for Executive & Professional Education to run the initiative.
The new batch of tour guides included 5 UAE nationals from across RAK who will use their skills to share the destination’s rich tribal history and take visitors on a unique historical and cultural journey into the Emirate’s fascinating heritage and traditions.
THE PROGRAM
Conceived to support individuals who aspire to be Tour Guides, the program is planned to give candidates the skills and knowledge required to maximize professional opportunities in the tourism industry and meet industry standards.
The classes are conducted by experienced lecturers and trainers who have years of exposure in the fields of cultural heritage and use global standards to impart their knowledge, resulting in world-class tourism professionals.
Today is a proud day for us as we celebrate the graduates of the RAK Tour Guide Training Program. Tourism is one of the main pillars of Ras Al Khaimah’s economy and AURAK is keen to develop and expand the number of professionals entering the industry to sustain and help grow the tourism sector of Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE.
Prof. Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim, President of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah remarked about the initiative.
Meanwhile, Mr. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority commented about the success of the training course by stating that, “We place huge importance on the growth and development our next generation of tourism talent. Today’s travelers are looking to go beyond the traditional holiday experience, rather seeking new and fulfilling experiences where they can immerse themselves in the destination for a sense of purposeful travel. As such, it is important to have qualified, passionate guides that showcase Ras Al Khaimah’s rich culture and heritage and bring to life our unique, authentic Arabian experience with a fresh perspective.”
RAS AL KHAIMAH TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Under its sustainable strategy of Balanced Tourism and vision to become the regional leader in sustainable tourism by 2025, the Authority has made concentrated efforts in sustainable development through cultural tourism, leading to not only the protection of natural and cultural heritage but also job creation.
The Cultural sustainability projects include a three-phased restoration program at Al Jazirah Al Hamra as well as a bespoke tour of the key archaeological sites in the Emirate.
Four of the historical sites in the Emirate, Al Jazirah Al Hamra, Julfar, Shimal and Dhayah Fort have also been added in UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Site.