Ras Al Khaimah International airport in the UAE is to develop a VVIP terminal and private jet hangar in collaboration with Falcon, part of Alex Group Investment.

The airport has entered into an agreement with Falcon to develop and operate a new FBO facility, a key project within the Emirate’s wider aviation and tourism growth strategy. The facility, comprising a luxurious 1,500sqm terminal, 8,000sqm multi-purpose hangar and 9,000sqm of apron and aircraft parking areas, leverages its strategic location just 15 minutes away from premier beach resorts and the forthcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort.

Eng. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, chairman of Ras Al Khaimah's Department of Civil Aviation and chairman of the board of directors of RAK International airport, says: “This marks a significant milestone in Ras Al Khaimah’s continued emergence as a global destination. The development of this world-class facility strengthens our aviation infrastructure and enhances the Emirate’s ability to welcome high-value visitors, investors and partners from around the world. It underscores our ambition to expand our international reach while ensuring that every traveller’s first impression of Ras Al Khaimah reflects the quality, sophistication and hospitality for which we are known.

“This launch also plays a vital role in driving the sustainable growth of our tourism sector. By integrating advanced technologies, adopting environmentally responsible design principles and supporting new forms of future mobility, we are building an ecosystem that aligns with our long-term development objectives. As we continue to diversify our economy and elevate our global standing, this project represents a forward-looking investment in the prosperity and resilience of Ras Al Khaimah.”

The VVIP terminal will include a royal lounge, four VVIP lounges and premium hospitality areas. The surrounding airside infrastructure will offer ample aircraft parking, a helipad and space allocated for emerging vertical mobility solutions.

The facility will incorporate the Falcon signature experience and offer a high level of privacy, efficiency and personalised service. Its hangar complex is designed to support a range of private jets, including ultra long-range aircraft, while providing maintenance and operational capabilities.

Sustainability is a core pillar of the project. The terminal and hangars are being designed to achieve LEED Gold certification, with plans to offset 35 per cent of energy consumption via solar power generation, adopt fully electric ground support equipment and enable the use of sustainable aviation fuel. These measures will contribute to the goal of achieving net-zero operational emissions.

The development represents a significant investment into Ras Al Khaimah’s aviation infrastructure and is expected to generate positive economic impact for the Emirate, which is within four hours’ flying time of one third of the world’s population. Construction is scheduled to take place over the next 15 months, with the facility scheduled to open in Q1 2027.