Born from a culture of hospitality and coexistence, Ras Al Khaimah is a place where people from diverse backgrounds live, work, and thrive together. With over 150 nationalities calling it home, the Emirate exemplifies the values of tolerance and integration that the UAE champions. Guided by the UAE National Tolerance Program and the vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the Emirate is shaping a future where respect and belonging are part of daily life.
Religious Freedom in the UAE
Ras Al Khaimah reflects the federal values of religious freedom in the UAE, where mosques and churches exist side by side. Places of worship are well established across the Emirate, promoting an environment of interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence. These values align with the wider efforts of the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence UAE, and are foundational to Ras Al Khaimah’s inclusive identity.
Cultural Exchange and Community Life
As part of the multicultural UAE society, Ras Al Khaimah fosters connection through cultural festivals, heritage events, and public art initiatives. Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival celebrates global creativity, while the RAK Eats Festival showcases cuisine from around the world. These inclusive spaces reflect broader UAE cultural diversity initiatives, bringing communities together and encouraging meaningful engagement.
Social Inclusion for People of Determination
The Emirate actively promotes social inclusion among UAE nationals and expats, especially for people of determination. From accessible public facilities to targeted rehabilitation and training programs, Ras Al Khaimah is enhancing opportunities across all abilities. The RAK Club for People of Determination plays a key role, alongside government programs, to improve access in schools, workplaces, and events. Ras Al Khaimah’s Abdullah Al Nuaimi won gold in snowboarding at the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to empowering people of determination.
Ras Al Khaimah’s inclusive vision is guided by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi and aligns with the UAE’s national values of tolerance and opportunity for all. The Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research actively supports this mission through initiatives like public speaking sessions, a conflict resolution workshop for navigating tough conversations, teacher training, community research and more.
The Foundation also organizes the annual Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival and funds educational arts and grassroots projects that strengthen community ties and support underrepresented groups. These efforts help create a welcoming environment where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated.
Inclusive Education and Youth Development
Every child in Ras Al Khaimah deserves to feel welcome, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. The Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge works closely with all private schools to ensure students of all abilities learn together in inclusive, nurturing environments. From early identification and individual learning plans to teacher training, improved school facilities, and new policies to strengthen inclusion, the Emirate continues to raise standards so that no child is left behind.
To strengthen this spirit of inclusion beyond the classroom, new inter-school competitions and cultural activities are part of the academic calendar, providing students with more opportunities to connect, share, and thrive together in a diverse community.
Workplace Inclusion and Gender Equality
Ras Al Khaimah is a strong advocate for workplace inclusion and gender equality in the workplace. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority was also recognized among the ‘Best Workplaces in the Middle East™️ 2024’ and ‘Best Workplaces for Women™ – GCC 2024’ list in 2024, with women holding half of its senior roles. Initiatives like the Aman Shelter for Women and Children further support vulnerable groups and promote safety and equality.
Moreover, Ras Al Khaimah has kicked off its new WISE (Women In Strength and Empowerment) network, bringing together 50 female leaders for its first-ever event at the Mövenpick Resort. The day featured powerful conversations and a panel on “Women in Leadership,” all aimed at empowering women, building connections, and fostering mentorship. Established by the Investment and Development Office, WISE is set to spotlight female leaders, strengthen peer networks, and create lasting opportunities for women to thrive in the Emirate.
Expat Communities
Ras Al Khaimah ranked 5th for ease of settling in and 1st for expat essentials in the Expat Insider 2024 survey, highlighting why it’s a top choice for newcomers. Ras Al Khaimah reflects a growing model for a new national identity, including expats in the UAE. The Emirate offers affordable living, strong professional opportunities, and a welcoming environment where people from all backgrounds thrive together. Expats in Ras Al Khaimah report a high quality of life and a strong sense of belonging, reflecting a shared community spirit that values everyone, regardless of origin.
A Culture of Coexistence
Whether through inclusive festivals, faith friendly policies, community support services, or educational initiatives, Ras Al Khaimah remains committed to values of fairness, tolerance, and togetherness. Inspired by the leadership’s vision, the Emirate continues to build a society where everyone, residents, visitors, and future generations, can thrive side by side.
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