Rakeen launches $400m RAK Convention & Exhibition Centre on first day of ATM 2008

The ground-breaking mixed-use project will combine an iconic look with a superior high-tech finish, using technologically advanced ceramics that have been developed by RAK Ceramics, confirming the status of Ras Al Khaimah as the global capital of ceramics design, development and production.

Dr. Imad Haffar Chief Operating Officer, Rakeen, said: "We're thrilled to be revealing this cutting-edge and environmentally-friendly project at ATM. Our model provides an excellent visual insight into what will be a landmark for the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, designed by renowned architects Snohetta International. The RAK Convention & Exhibition Centre will be the finest of its kind in the region, not just a place of function, but also an outstanding architectural masterpiece, designed meticulously, allowing for future expansion.

"We're very proud to confirm that we are, as with our other projects, building around nature and not on top of it. The entire structure of the RAK Convention & Exhibition Centre will be set directly onto the natural land contours, without any disturbance to the surroundings. We're keen to retain as much of the original area as possible, thus maintaining the majestic beauty of the sand dunes."

The RAK Convention & Exhibition Centre will comprise of:
-50,000m2 of rentable area, five exhibition halls, each with between four and six hundred seating capacity - Hall 1 can be transformed into a 4,000 seat congress hall, three parking levels beneath
-three hotels, each with 750 keys and with a green park located in between:
--The Tower (5 star) - 62 levels
--The Oasis (4 star) - 12 levels
--The Expo (3 star) - 12 levels
-and a shopping mall consisting of 3 floors, 7 cinema screens a food court, restaurants and cafes

The Ras Al Khaimah stand (880, in Hall 4) at ATM is also featuring a number of other companies, including RAK Airways and Hilton Ras Al Khaimah; the appearance of these companies together illustrates the continuing growth that the emirate is experiencing.

The Arabian Travel Market 2008 is being held at the Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre from 6 until 9 May, 2008. The event is the region's leading travel and tourism exhibition, dedicated to unlocking the enormous business potential of the industry within the Middle East and pan Arab region.