University expands challenge to promote adventure tourism development in Ras Al Khaimah

The George Washington University International Institute of Tourism Studies, in collaboration with The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority is expanding the 2018 Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Innovation Challenge. The initiative now is not only aimed at students, but also participants from outdoor recreation organizations or sporting groups. The winner will also now receive a cash prize of US $5,000 and free trip to the United Arab Emirates.

The university said the challenge provides university students, and other programme participants, with the opportunity to apply their classroom studies to real-world challenges, to understand how adventure tourism can contribute to sustainable tourism development and to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost United Arab Emirate, offers unparalleled—and unspoiled—opportunities for thrill-seeking visitors. But beyond the region, adventure travelers are largely unfamiliar with the destination’s exciting offerings. To change that, The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority is enlisting student help in a challenge aimed at attracting more adventure travel enthusiasts to Ras Al Khaimah and raising its profile as a leading adventure destination.

According to the university, attracting small-scale adventure sporting events to the region is important because such events can produce major economic benefits for host communities. Not only do they attract contestants, but the infrastructure required to support the events draw other adventure-seeking travelers and local people.

Winners will receive a free trip to present their idea at the Ras Al Khaimah World Tourism Day Celebration on 27 September 2018. For additional details about the challenge, please visit the registration page. Registration closes 30 April 2018.