RAS AL KHAIMAH, United Arab Emirates, July 23, 2025 – HR Hotel FZ LLC, a joint venture company between Malta-based db Group and RAK Hospitality Holding (RAKHH), is bringing Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This branded mixed-use development project is slated to open in 2028.
Its prime location on the Arabian Gulf in Ras Al Khaimah’s Beach District, adjacent to Al Marjan Island, will offer approximately 300 rooms, 395 branded residences, and is set to create roughly 500 permanent job opportunities. The premier hotel will have restaurants featuring diverse cuisines and waterfront dining, a rooftop bar, conference space, event venue, beach club, swimming pools, 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 traveller in a destination with rich history and nature to explore.”
Ras Al Khaimah represents a strategic hub where diversified business opportunities and sustainable development principles drive economic growth across multiple sectors. Known as the Nature Emirate, the northernmost emirate has established itself as a premium destination that combines robust investment infrastructure with world-class tourism experiences, including 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 recognised 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.”
The emirate offers investors and residents a comprehensive value proposition that includes advanced business infrastructure, pristine natural environments spanning coastlines to the Hajar Mountains, and a 7,000-year heritage foundation. This integrated approach supports diverse economic activities while maintaining the authentic character and high-quality living standards that define Ras Al Khaimah’s competitive position in the regional market.
“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.”
For more information on Hard Rock Hotel openings, visit hotel.hardrock.com.
Media Contacts
HRI – Jonathan Goldman, jgoldman@golin.com
RAKHH – Maha Galieva, maha@rakhospitality.com
db Group – Chris Peregin, pr@christianperegin.com
About Hard Rock®
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognised companies with venues in nearly 80 countries spanning more than 300 locations, including owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia with more than 88,000 pieces displayed at locations around the globe. The Unity™ by Hard Rock global loyalty program rewards members for doing the things they love across participating properties. In addition, Hard Rock Digital spotlights the sports betting and iGaming experience with products remixed in the spirit of Hard Rock for players worldwide. HRI has received numerous industry, destination and workplace awards across the travel, hospitality, gaming, entertainment and food & beverage sectors. HRI currently holds investment grades from primary investment-grade rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.
About RAKHH
Established in 2014, RAK Hospitality Holding (RAKHH) stands as the leading hospitality group in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. With a unique and diversified portfolio, RAKHH encompasses a wide spectrum of businesses including luxury, upper-upscale, and upscale hotels, leisure and entertainment venues, a variety of dining establishments, employee accommodation solutions, and logistics services. The group also operates a dedicated event management company, as well as expertise on real estate and hospitality asset management and advisory services across the Middle East region and beyond. Notably, RAKHH owns and operates the world’s longest zipline and the UAE’s highest award-winning restaurant. RAKHH is also developing the Wynn Al Marjan Island project in partnership with Marjan and Wynn Resorts, introducing the first integrated resort in the United Arab Emirates.
About db Group
The db Group is a leading Malta-based hospitality company that has been operating in the catering, leisure, and hospitality sectors for forty years. Since its inception in 1984, the Group has undergone significant growth and transformation. It has fostered strategic partnerships with global players in the hospitality and catering industry, including Accor Hotel Group, RIU Hotels & Resorts, Hard Rock International, Starbucks, Bagatelle, EL&N and GROM. Today, the Group operates four highly successful hotels with a 394 key five star and residences hotel presently under construction, in addition to the accommodation establishments, the Group owns and operates 12 successful independent restaurants, a few of which have obtained ‘Michelin recommended’ and 2 Forbes forks, and 20 franchised catering outlets. In September 2025, the Group will be opening its first high-end restaurant overseas in London’s Mayfair district.
Photo Caption:
From left to right, standing: Nicholas Portelli – Managing Director SDH Capital, Robert Debono – Group CEO db Group, Thijs Van Rhoon, General Manager RAK National Hotels, Stefan Hanekom, CFO- RAH Hospitality Holding. Seated: Silvio Debono – Chairman, db Group, Alison Grinnell – CEO, RAK Hospitality Holding.
