Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is preparing for a major shift in how it serves private and high-end travellers. The airport has announced an ambitious expansion that adds a luxury VVIP terminal, an 8,000-square-metre multi-purpose hangar and a large, dedicated apron for private and long-range aircraft. The announcement was made at the Dubai Airshow and marks one of the most significant upgrades in the airport's history.
The development is being carried out in partnership with Falcon Executive Aviation, part of Alex Group Investment. The company will design, build and operate the new Fixed Base Operation facility, which sits at the heart of this expansion. For Ras Al Khaimah, it signals a clear push to position the Emirate as a growing hub for high-value tourism, business travel and investment.
The new complex includes a 1,500-square-metre VVIP terminal designed for travellers who expect privacy, speed and personalised service. The facility will offer a set of four VVIP lounges, premium hospitality zones and a dedicated Royal lounge reserved for visiting dignitaries and government guests. Airport officials describe the service experience as the “Falcon Signature Experience”, promising smooth, discreet movement from aircraft to lounge to transport.
The plans reflect not only luxury but also RAK’s attempt to shape the future of private aviation. The expansion includes space for next-generation mobility solutions. A helipad and an area reserved for eVTOL aircraft - electric vertical take-off and landing systems are part of the blueprint. As global aviation slowly moves toward greener and more flexible technology, the airport wants to be ready.
Construction is expected to take about 15 months, with the facility targeted to open in the first quarter of 2027.
Alongside luxury and convenience, the project leans heavily on sustainability. The entire development aims for LEED Gold certification, a standard usually associated with modern, eco-conscious commercial buildings rather than private aviation terminals. The terminal will incorporate rooftop solar systems capable of offsetting roughly 35 percent of the facility’s total energy use. All ground handling at the new FBO will rely on electric vehicles rather than diesel-powered equipment. The terminal will also be equipped to support Sustainable Aviation Fuel, providing an alternative to conventional jet fuel in an industry under pressure to lower emissions. The airport wants to set a new standard for green private aviation in the region.
This expansion fits into a much larger redevelopment plan at RAK International Airport. The airport is also building a 30,000-square-metre passenger terminal that will operate alongside the existing facility, bringing new space for check-in, immigration, baggage systems and security. The idea is to modernise the airport without disrupting current operations, while preparing for a future in which RAK draws more visitors than ever before.
The Emirate’s hospitality and tourism sector has been on an upward trajectory, accelerated by mega-projects such as the Wynn Marjan Island Resort, expected to open in early 2027. As new resorts, entertainment districts and luxury hotels attract international guests, RAK International Airport wants to ensure passengers, whether on scheduled commercial flights or private aircraft, have a seamless and modern experience from the moment they arrive.
Officials estimate that the airport will be able to handle more than 3 million passengers by 2028. With tourism investment rising, the new VVIP terminal is designed to strengthen RAK’s global positioning and help deliver an elevated travel experience that matches the Emirate’s growing ambitions.
