Overview

The northernmost emirate in the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah is well known for stunning natural landscapes. It is the fourth-largest of all the Emirates, despite making up only 2.17% of the country’s entire territory, it is the more adventurous hinterland in comparison to its decades-young luxury neighbors. This includes pristine beaches, the nearby Hajar Mountains, and ancient history, which makes this city a destination where you can combine relaxation with active outdoor exploration. Read more to learn about all the places to visit in Ras AL Khaimah and how the combination of coastline and culture, mountains and rich history, make this emirate more than just an embellished desert.

Things to See and Do

Ras Al Khaimah’s Hajar Mountains is perfect for any outdoor enthusiasts with hiking, biking, and rock-climbing opportunities amidst stunning, untouched terrain. Jebel Jais is the highest mountain peak in the region. Visiting the Viewing Deck Park on top of Jebel Jais is a must-do, offering one of the most dramatic panoramic views in the world. There are multiple activities once you get to the top. These include the world’s longest zip line, which is done Superman style, a series of 8 ziplines which is done seated and the sledder.

Visit a pearl farm one of the UAE’s treasured traditions. Suwaidi Pearl Farm is set in a stunning location and allows you to see more of RAK. You get on a traditional pearling boat out to the floating farm, the scenery along the way is beautiful with the mountains set against the clear sea and mangroves. You’ll learn about the vast history of the region, previously known as Julphar, and how the dangerous art of pearl diving was once the heartbeat of the community. You’ll also be able to open your own oyster, in the hope of finding a precious pearl. Once your tour is complete (about 2 hours), you’ll take the boat through the mangroves to see the local wildlife, watch camel bathing in the water, or spot turtles bathing in the sun. Adventurers can also take a kayak and make their way through the mangroves that way.

Take in the beautiful beaches in Ras Al Khaimah. With 40 miles of coastline, there’s no shortage of swimming, sunbathing, and water activities to enjoy. Popular spots like Al Hamra Beach, located at The Ritz-Carlton, and Al Marjan Island Beach at the Rixos Bab Al Bahr, both are equipped with modern amenities, while more secluded stretches provide an intimate atmosphere.

Be sure to experience the Al Wadi Desert. The giant dunes, just a short drive out, are where you’ll have the opportunity to dune bash in a 4x4, ride a camel, or an Arabian horse. As the sun begins its descent, the dunes come alive with hues of gold and orange, setting the stage for a magical adventure.

Just north of the city, near the Hajar Mountains, the little village of Shimal is the site of several hundred pre-Islamic tombs and a settlement that has been dated from 2000-1300 BCE. This area is one of the most important archaeological sites in the United Arab Emirates, though visitors will probably have to be avid history lovers to appreciate the sites. One of the most important discoveries here was a large circular tomb from the Umm al-Nar period.

History

With over 7,000 years of continuously inhabited history, RAK has no shortage of authentic sites to visit for any history buff. The best starting point is the National Museum of Ras al Khaimah in RAK city. Housed in the former fort, tunned palace, turned prison, the ancient two-storey structure was built using coral blocks which keeps it cool in summer and warm in winter. The galleries are accessed via a central courtyard and take you on a journey through time.

Visit the Al Jazeera Al Hamra, mosques and museums. This is the only remaining historical pearling village in the entire Gulf region. The fort and watchtowers, mosque, souque, and extensive courtyard houses are all housed here. It is a great place to experience traditional dishes from the souk. You can also do a tour of the Mohammed Bin Salem Mosque which dates back to at least the 18th century. Sheikh Zayed Mosque (not to be confused with the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi) is possibly one of the oldest places of worship in the United Arab Emirates. And Al Jazirah Al Hamra, a ‘ghost town’ abandoned by locals in the 60’s.

The Dhayah Fort is well worth a stop on your way to Jebel Jais Mountain. Perched proudly atop a hillock, Dhayah Fort stands as a sentinel of history and a monument of resilience. Ascending its weathered stone steps, you are transported to an era of ancient battles and strategic maneuvers. The fort’s mud-brick walls resonate with tales of resistance against British forces in the 19th century, a living testament to the courage of the region’s inhabitants.

Shopping

Some of the hotels run a daily shuttle to Dubai if you want to do some serious shopping, however, there are some malls in RAK itself. The Al Harma mall is one of them, that offers retail delights. The sprawling complex caters to every desire and taste with vibrant storefronts offering the latest in fashion, electronics, accessories, and more. Designer boutiques and international brands stand side by side, offering a plethora of choices. You’ll also find family-friendly entertainment zones, restaurants and cafes, and a cinema for movie buffs.

Luxury All-Inclusive Hotels, Resorts & Spas

Ras Al Khaimah is home to several of luxury all-inclusive resorts and hotels, providing luxuriousness and indulgence amid stunning surroundings. These exclusive properties pamper guests with lavish amenities, fine dining, and world-class spa facilities. Many of the hotels in this area have private beaches, luxurious swimming pools, and a wide range of recreational activities.

Ras Al Khaimah is also an idyllic retreat for wellness enthusiasts, featuring world-class spa and wellness centers. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, some spas provide open-air relaxation areas, while others nestle within luxurious resorts. Moreover, the tranquil atmosphere, therapeutic treatments, and skilled practitioners make these wellness retreats an ideal escape for those seeking relaxation and well-being amidst Ras Al Khaimah’s natural beauty.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Ras al Khaimah is extremely diverse with restaurants that range from arabian to Syrian to Chinese to Indian. Similar to Dubai, RAK is fairly Westernized, so chain restaurants like McDonald's, PF Changs, etc. can be found all around the city. For the best authentic experience, we recommend just strolling and stopping at one of the many mom-and-pop style restaurants. The many luxurious resorts also offer great restaurants and fine dining. Each resort is home to several restaurants and bars where you can choose dishes influenced by cuisines from around the world.

Be sure to sample traditional Arabic dishes during your stay. Some popular dishes include: Manakish, flatbread served with a range of toppings; Falafel, spices mixed with ground chickpeas or fava beans to form fried balls dipped in a sauce such as tahini; Shawarma, strips of chicken or lamb cooked on a spit with spices then served in pita bread with lettuce and a drizzle of tahini sauce; Shish Taouk, a chicken shish kebab served on a skewer after being marinated in yogurt, lemon juice and spices; and Samak Mhammar, a seafood dish formed of a whole fish, spiced and served with yellow rice and caramelized onions.