Ras Al Khaimah (often referred to simply as RAK) is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. It’s located about an hour north of Dubai (depending on the traffic), neighboring Oman and facing the Arabian Sea.

RAK tends to be a little cheaper than Dubai, so you get more bang for your buck here. It’s also less built-up than its famous neighbor, so if you like the idea of an Arabian vacation, but you aren’t a fan of big cities, this could just be the destination for you.

Ras Al Khaimah is located just 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport. If you have not booked a private transfer with us, you’ll have a few options to get to your hotel from the airport. The infrastructure has developed rapidly and continues to do so, which links the cities and Emirates further every year.

If you are traveling from Dubai’s airport or Dubai Union bus station, there is a bus service that can get you to the city of Ras Al Khaimah in less than two hours. The public bus service, operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)), connects Dubai with Ras Al Khaimah. Buses depart from the Al Ghubaiba bus Station in Dubai and the Ras Al Khaimah Bus Station. This is a very inexpensive option.

From the Dubai airport, you can take a shuttle bus, which has you in Ras Al Khaimah city center in just 45 minutes. The shuttle starts running at 6 am at the Dubai airport.

Car rentals are another option at Dubai Airport and this is the most convenient way to get to RAK from Dubai. It is about an hour's drive from the airport to Ras Al Khaimah. If you’re driving, take the E311 road, passing Sharjah en route to Ras Al Khaimah. Alternatively, take the E611 road and follow signs to Ras Al Khaimah. The journey takes about an hour and half, depending on traffic.

Car rentals are another option at Dubai Airport. It is about an hour's drive from the airport to Ras Al Khaimah. If you’re driving, take the E311 road, passing Sharjah en route to Ras Al Khaimah. Alternatively, take the E611 road and follow signs to Ras Al Khaimah.

Since there are no buses, subways, or trains in Ras Al Khaimah, taxis are the main and most popular transportation option. Taxis are comfortable, reasonably priced and easily available. You can pre-book taxis or just flag one down in the street.

Renting a car is probably the best way to easily visit all parts of Ras Al Khaimah. Car rental prices vary according to the size, brand, quality and type of the car. The roads in Ras Al Khaimah are in good condition, however, driving can be a challenging experience for those who are not used to slightly chaotic roads. International car rentals are available in most of the hotels. There are also numerous smaller local companies around the town.

A few tour operators (mainly in the international hotels) organize Ras Al Khaimah city tours. Most of the big hotels provide buses for their guests to the Ras Al Khaimah Old City and shopping malls.

No, we do not recommend walking in the city due to the traffic and lack of sidewalks. For a leisurely walk, head to the Corniche Road and the beaches.

The best time for ideal weather in Ras Al Khaimah is during the winter months, from November to March. The temperatures are mild and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits. It’s the best season to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. The summer is scorching heat making it difficult to be outside, be prepared for the heat and humidity.

Ras Al Khaimah, which has the best agricultural lands of the country, is among the most important attractions of the country in terms of tourism. Ras Al Khaimah offers an enjoyable experience for guests who want to fish and birdwatch. Guests who enjoy outdoor activities can spend time with various activities such as mountain climbing, desert safari, diving and golf. Saqr Park, which is the largest public park in the Emirates, is especially preferred by families with children thanks to its extremely entertaining games.

Some of the popular attractions in Ras Al Khaimah include Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE, the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Village, Al Marjan Island, and the Dhayah Fort.

The currency in Ras Al Khaimah is AED (Emirati Dirham). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted around Ras Al Khaimah. ATMs are available at numerous locations in the emirate, including local banks, petrol stations and shopping malls.

When it comes to tipping, most restaurants and hotel establishments automatically charge a service charge. In addition, you are free to tip service staff – the norm is 10%. For more detailed information, consult our guide to tipping in the UAE by clicking here UAE

Ras Al Khaimah is considered a safe place to live and visit, with low crime rates and a stable political environment. However, like any other destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions and adhere to local laws and customs.

Traditional foods in Ras Al Khaimah include dishes like Machboos (spiced rice with meat), Harees (a porridge-like dish made with wheat and meat), and various seafood dishes. Emirati cuisine often includes ingredients such as rice, meat, fish, and spices like saffron and cardamom.

Yes, it is the same as Dubai with alcohol available in hotels. It does have a 30% tax on alcohol, so prices are a bit higher than in Dubai regarding alcohol.

Shopping in Ras Al Khaimah ranges from modern malls to traditional souks. The Al Hamra Mall and Manar Mall offer a variety of international brands, while the Al Naeem Mall features a mix of local and global retailers. For a more authentic shopping experience, the Old Souk in the city's heart is the perfect place to find traditional handicrafts, spices, and textiles.

Ras Al Khaimah has several hospitals and clinics where you can seek medical attention. If you are staying at a hotel or resort in RAK, you can contact the front desk or concierge for assistance. They can help you locate nearby medical facilities or arrange for transportation.

You may call the emergency phone number for Ras Al Khaimah Police (999) at any time, whether you need police assistance, an ambulance, or for any other emergency situations. Calls to this number are free.