Hard Rock International to develop hotel and residences in United Arab Emirates
The project is slated to open in 2028.
UAE.- Hard Rock International has announced a project with HR Hotel FZ LLC, a joint venture between Malta-based Db Group and RAK Hospitality Holding (RAKHH), to developer a hotel and residences in he United Arab Emirates (UAE). Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah is slated to open in 2028.
The mixed-use development will be located in Ras Al Khaimah’s Beach District, adjacent to Al Marjan Island. It will have approximately 300 rooms, 395 branded residences and will reportedly create roughly 500 permanent jobs. The hotel will have restaurants, a rooftop bar, conference space, event venue, beach club, swimming pools and a spa and fitness centre.
“Hard Rock International is proud to introduce its hotel and residence accommodations known for its unique brand of entertainment and superior hospitality to the region,” said Todd Hricko, senior vice president & head of global hotel development at Hard Rock International. “This development will open new doors for the Hard Rock global traveler in a destination with rich history and nature to explore.”
Ras Al Khaimah is the northernmost emirate with access to Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, and the world’s longest zipline.
“This partnership demonstrates exactly what we mean when we talk about strategic collaboration that elevates the entire emirate,” said Alison Grinnell, CEO of RAKHH. “We’re bringing together three distinct strengths—our deep understanding of Ras Al Khaimah’s market dynamics, db Group’s proven development expertise, and Hard Rock’s globally recognized brand appeal—to one of the most exciting lifestyle destinations in the region that will become a dynamic hub for tourism, leisure, and entertainment.
“This isn’t just another hotel development; it’s a catalyst for the sustained, high-quality growth that positions Ras Al Khaimah as a serious contender in the luxury and lifestyle hospitality space while supporting our broader economic diversification goals.”
“We are delighted to partner with RAK Hospitality Holding and Hard Rock International on this landmark project – our first major venture beyond Malta,” added Silvio Debono, chairman of db Group. “With nearly four decades of experience in the hospitality sector, db Group is proud to bring its expertise to one of the region’s most dynamic and fast-growing markets. Together, we aim to deliver a world-class destination that embodies Hard Rock’s energy and spirit while offering guests a truly unique lifestyle experience on the shores of Ras Al Khaimah.”
The United Arab Emirates legalised regulated gambling in September 2023, and the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has begun granting gaming vendor licences. For now, only Wynn has a casino licence. It expects to open Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah in early 2027. MGM Resorts seeks to operate a land-based casino in Abu Dhabi.
