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Ras Al Khaimah, located in the northern reaches of the UAE, is just beginning to carve its niche into the tourist map. It is the unmatched great asp that makes landscapes ranging from stretching rugged mountains and golden desert to an expanse of untouched beaches, assuring refuge from the din of urban life. For adventure addicts, plenty awaits to engage them outdoors, while culture vultures will revel in its historically charged atmosphere and traditions. With sunshine all year round, the warm hospitality of the city, and the ever-expanding menu of leisure facilities, it is fast becoming a perfect place for families, couples, and solo travellers.
Location
Photo: Tashmetova808 / Wikimedia Commons
The northernmost emirate in the UAE lies along the Arabian Gulf. It shares borders with Oman to the north across the Musandam Peninsula and Fujairah and Sharjah to its east and south, respectively. With an area of about 2,486 square kilometres, it is the fourth-largest emirate in the UAE. The landscape ranges from the towering Hajar mountains down to wide empty desert plains and a 64-kilometre stretch of coastline. The city is well connected by road to various major cities in the UAE, including Dubai.
How To Reach
Photo: Arild Vågen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: Ras Al Khaimah International Airport supports both domestic and international flights. Otherwise, Dubai International Airport is just about 100 km away, and visitors can travel to, renting taxis, or using bus services to the city.
By Road: It connects through highways, and the travel duration is about 1-1.5 hours from Dubai. There are public buses on an even frequency between Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al-Khaimah, while taxis and rental cars make it convenient.
By Sea: Ras Al-Khaimah welcomes private yachts and occasional cruise ships at RAK Port and Al Jeer Port. The marina at Al Jeer has berthing facilities for boats coming in from Oman or other UAE marinas. These services do not include regular passenger ferry services.
Things To Do
Ras Al Khaimah offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Here are the top five things to do:
1. Thrill At The World’s Longest Zipline
Photo: Angela Manthorpe / Wikimedia Commons
A magnificent haven for adventure seekers, Jebel Jais is the highest peak in the UAE at 1,934 meters. Toro Verde operates the world’s longest zipline recognized by Guinness World Records: 2.83 km high above the ground with speeds reaching up to 160 km/h, known as Jais Flight. The Jais Viewing Deck Park comes equipped with several viewing platforms overlooking steep canyons and winding roads, just perfect for sightseeing and photography.
Location: Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
2. Shop And Dine By The Marina
Photo: Marek Pafčuga / Wikimedia Commons
Al Hamra Mall is in Al Hamra Village, measuring a whopping 37,000 square meters and is very crowded with visitors. Of course, it has more than130 international and local brands from where a consumer can buy their full line of needs. The dining options in the mall include fast food from McDonald’s and KFC and international selections including Shakespeare & Co. and Chili’s. The mall hosts VOX Cinemas for the complete modern movie-watching experience and a Funville indoor play area for kids. Located near the waterfront, it provides a picturesque shopping mood with easy access to the nearby Al Hamra Marina and luxury resorts.
Location: Al Hamra Village, Ras Al Khaimah
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
3. Explore RAK’s Historic Landmark
Photo: Ulises Icardi / Wikimedia Commons
Dhayah Fort-the only hill-top fort left in the entire UAE-is about 20 km north of city. It dates back to the 16th century and was a crucial defensive structure during the British attacks in 1819. The fort sits high on a hill that is 70 meters tall, requiring climbing an estimated 239 steps to reach the top. The view will reward visitors with panoramic landscapes of the Hajar mountains, palm groves, and the coastline. The twin watchtowers and restored walls clearly showcase traditional Emirati architecture built from mud bricks and stone.
Location: 20 km north of Ras Al Khaimah city
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
4. Discover The UAE’s Pearl Diving Heritage
Photo: Angela Manthorpe / Wikimedia Commons
Suwaidi Pearls is the only pearl farm in the UAE, which is possible at Al Rams to show visitors the diverse tradition of pearl diving in the region. The farm is the brainchild of Abdulla Al Suwaidi, a scion of pearl divers, thereby preserving the legacy of the industry that once fueled the Gulf economy. The trips conducted by guides for visitors take place on a boat through mangroves onto a floating platform. Visitors then learn the art of traditional pearl diving, some forms of modern pearl cultivation, and the different types of oysters available.
Location: Al Rams, Ras Al Khaimah
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
5. RAK Desert Safari
Photo: Myousry6666 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dunes and desert sand create an exquisite environment wherein visitors experience the offerings of the authentic Emirati Bedouin culture and way of life possible at the RAK Desert Safari. The activities included are dune bashing through 4x4s, camel riding, sandboarding, and even falconry exhibits. One memorable point is going into a Bedouin-style traditional camp, where guests can sample Arabic coffee, indulge in henna painting, and entertain themselves with performances from live belly dancers, as well as participate in Tanoura shows.
Location: Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah
Operating Hours: Tours typically start around 3:00 PM- 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Packages start from AED 150 per person
Places To Visit Nearby Ras Al Khaimah
From stunning coastlines to rugged mountains and cultural landmarks, here are some of the best places to explore around Ras Al Khaimah:
1. Musandam, Oman
Photo: log-011/ Wikimedia Commons
Musandam is that beautiful route-hugging peninsula that is cut off from the rest of Oman by the UAE. It is characterized by dramatic fjords, clear water, and rugged mountains. It is the home of breathtaking dhow cruises, from which one can sight dolphins or scuba dive in the sparkling sea. There is a 17th-century fort called Khasab Fort, along with the historic Telegraph Island. It is great for adventurers who enjoy activities like mountain safaris and kayaking through fjords.
Best Time To Visit: October to April
2. Dubai
Photo: Xiaotong Gao / Wikimedia Commons
Dubai, the most iconic city of the UAE, is a globally recognized hub for luxury, innovation, and entertainment. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and the Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls, provide unique experiences. Visitors can cruise along the Dubai Marina, hang out in a desert safari, or soak up the sun at Jumeirah Beach. The historic Al Fahidi District and Dubai Creek provide a glimpse into the past of the city. Sticking to its roots with truly extra-modern attractions like Ain Dubai and Museum of the Future, Dubai finds itself with a strong presence on the destinations.
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Where To Stay
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The city has a variety of accommodation options. Waldorf Astoria, The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert, and Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort are the top-of-the-range luxurious accommodations. Mid-range rates feature accommodations like BM Beach Resort or DoubleTree by Hilton Marjan Island. Budget travelers could go incomparably cheaper, as with Citymax Hotel Ras Al Khaimah and Royal View Hotel, which are both locations nearby to major attractions within the emirate.
Where To Eat
Photo: Wilfredo Rafael Rodriguez Hernandez / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
With excellent fine dining but also very casual Emirati food joints, the city would not disappoint even the most discerning foodie. The best steaks can be found at the Lexington Grill & Bar ‘Waldorf Astoria’ while Meze takes the spotlight for the one that comes quite close to Mediterranean authenticity. Those who would like to taste the food from the Emirates must visit Al Fanar Restaurant & Café. Casual dining experiences include the breathtaking Puro which offers more than just great food but also experiences at Jebel Jais or Zaitouna House with its Mediterranean flavours along the waterfront.
Tips For Travellers
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- At least 3 or 4 days are recommended in order to explore city attractions as well as desert or mountain experiences.
- Pack light clothes for summer and warm clothes for desert outings.
- Renting a car or using taxis is the best way to get around as public transport is scarce.
Beyond Ras Al Khaimah lies a haven for every adventure seeker, an original collector of cultural experiences, and a sanctuary for relaxation. Thrilling outdoor activities, a deep knowledge of heritage, or the gentle touch of a slowdown in one’s coastal retreat, this emirate has them all. One visit promises memories that could be etched in the mind forever. Plan a trip with TripXL, and we can help you find the best deals for accommodations, activities, and travel experiences.
Cover Photo: Vincent Eisfeld / Pexels
