ABU DHABI: Ras Al-Khaimah on Tuesday unveiled a suite of immersive digital tools aimed at revolutionizing how the emirate engages with residents, investors and tourists, marking a bold step in its wider communication and smart city strategy.
The announcement came on the sidelines of the Bridge Summit in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, where officials introduced a virtual reality experience and a high-resolution digital twin of the emirate as part of efforts to boost transparency, interactivity and real-time access to public services and urban development plans.
Heba Fatani, Director General of Ras Al-Khaimah Government Media, said the move aimed at transitioning away from the traditional government “megaphone” model and toward an immersive, two-way customer experience.
“Governments that embrace technology and navigate away from that megaphone approach of one-sided communication are the ones that foster imagination,” she told Arab News on Tuesday.
RAK showcased two key technologies that they say embodies this philosophy. The first is a new relocation platform designed to show prospective residents not just practical details about living in the emirate, but also testimonials and “hero stories” from those who have already moved there.
To deepen the emotional connection, RAK worked with students at the American University of RAK to develop a virtual-reality experience that allows users anywhere in the world to explore RAK’s natural and urban environments as if they were physically present.
“People can sit and feel what it’s like to walk along our coastline or through our heritage sites,” Fatani said.
“This technology is exportable; you could be in Australia, sitting in your living room, and feel like you’re here.”
The second innovation is a digital twin of RAK Central and Al-Marjan Island, created in collaboration with master developer Marjan. The interactive model allows users to visualize existing and future developments, explore pathways and buildings, and understand how new projects will reshape the emirate.
Fatani said the tool has applications across sectors including real estate, planning and communications, and will continue to expand with AI-driven features.
“We are only scratching the surface of what is possible,” she said.
Fatani also highlighted the emirate’s appeal for new residents and investors, citing its diverse topography, high quality of life and business-friendly environment. Many visitors, she said, come for a holiday and stay to open a company, later expanding into new facilities or global markets.
“We want people not just to hear our story,” Fatani said, “but to feel it — and to be part of shaping what comes next.”
