RAK International Airport's efforts at providing comprehensive world-class quality airport services has gained substantial ground as both passenger numbers and financial performance figures posted impressive growth throughout 2012. Under the vision and guidance of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Member of the Supreme Council, the strategic and rapid development of RAK International Airport has resulted in a 24% growth in passenger numbers and over 60% growth in financial performance from the previous year. In addition, its operations performance reached a 98% achievement rate, and aircraft movements, duty-free sales and cargo tonnage, too showed positive growth. During the early months of 2012, a new management team headed by Gower was appointed at RAK International Airport with a clear mandate of expanding the airport's operations. Other appointees included Mohammed Qazi as Commercial '&' Finance Director, Michael Coe as the Development Director and Terry Sloan as the Head of Operations. Apart from the new management appointees, RAK International Airport also awarded a ground handling operations contract to National Aviation Services (NAS), which now provides a comprehensive ground handling service that includes ramp handling, check-in, arrival, transit and cargo services. In addition, Pearl Assist, NAS's worldwide network of lounge and meet and assist services has also been made available at RAK International Airport. In addition, RAK International Airport is the first commercial airport in the UAE to have partnered with Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) - the first UAE-based leading provider of professional aerospace services - for the provision of comprehensive Air Traffic Services (ATS). This partnership highlights the availability of globally acceptable, local ATS providers of international standards to UAE airports. These include a full array of air traffic control services - from manning to the analysis of standards, procedures and facilities at the airport. This partnership ensures that operational requirements are met and that maximum effort is made to ensure flight safety. Being just 45 minutes from Dubai is a huge advantage for passengers travelling to '&' from RAK International Airport. The proximity to favoured destinations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi through road and air links from RAK Airport is quite attractive making Ras Al Khaimah a northern gateway to the country. Another comprehensive factor in RAK Airport's 2012 growth is the commercial packages offered to airlines and other aviation associated businesses, which was the best in the region. Other factors included the development of new routes, improvements to its tour service and in-terminal facilities. These include the opening of a new business lounge, a cafe, and the substantial increase of its Duty-Free offerings. Furthermore, RAK Airport had successful participation at key industry events such as the Routes held all over the world, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, and ITB Berlin. Located just 45 minutes from Dubai, and 20-45 minutes from Ajman, Umm Al-Qaiwain and Fujairah, early and new entrants into the UAE through RAK International Airport can capitalise on market share and reap profitable rewards.