Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven emirates in the UAE and relatively lesser known among the tourists. The beauty of the barren landscape is enhanced by the craggy mountains and the green shade of palm trees. The blue waters of the Arabian Sea meet the white desert sands, creating some of the best beaches that are perfect for holiday makers.
Ras Al Khaimah also has some of the best resorts and wellness centres in Emirates that offer peaceful retreats in the desert landscape. From walking through the mountain tracks to enjoying a bonfire under the starlit desert sky, the region has the right ingredients to craft a perfect Arabian vacation.
The tourist-friendly environment is coupled with a delightful range of local and international cuisine and attractive shopping malls that will keep shopaholics busy. There are vibrant nightclubs and colourful festivals that invite the tourist to relish the moments.
Ras Al Khaimah presents a perfect slice of Arabia that combines the beauty of the golden sands with zestful local cultures and traditions. In addition, it is also one of the safest places for travelling in the Emirates from all aspects.
FAQs
Before starting the trip, here are a few FAQs to look into some basic facts about the region.
How can I get around the city?
Ras Al Khaimah offers has a good network of buses and trains for tourists. There are luxury bus services connecting it with the other emirates and the Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai International airports. There are also taxi services available that can be booked in advance. The taxi fares can be made through cash payments or cards. There are special taxi services for people in a wheelchair. Multiple car rental services are available for booking a car.
Where can I change money?
There are currency exchange offices that offer the necessary facilities at the airport. ATM machines are also available.
Is tipping required?
Tipping is a common custom though it is not compulsory. Tips in hotels range between Dhs5 to Dhs10. Restaurants generally include a service charge and rounding up the fare for taxis is the common practice.
Is smoking allowed in restaurants and bars?
Smoking is banned in public places and for throwing cigarette butts on the streets can attract a fine. Nightclubs and enclosed bars allow smoking.
Are there local laws and customs of which I should be aware?
Local customs should be obeyed, especially when it comes to dressing and drinking. Alcohol is to be purchased and consumed only from licensed establishments. Illegal drugs are strictly prohibited. Public displays of affection and swearing are to be avoided.
National Holidays
Ras Al Khaimah observes national holidays like New Year’s Day (1st January), Eid Al Fitr (June 3/4 to June 6/7), Arafat Day (10th August), Eid Al Adha ( 11,12,13 August), Al Hijri(31st August), Commemoration Day (1st December) and UAE National Day (2,3 December). Plan yur travel keeping thee days in mind.
Time Zone
Ras Al Khaimah observes Gulf Standard Time, which is four hours ahead of GMT.
The Sites of Interest
Ras Al Khaimah offers the beauty of a rugged desert landscape along with titbits of ancient history. The emirate has plenty in its coffer to assist families as well as adventure seekers in creating special memories. The Hajar Mountains are the right destination for nature lovers and the Khatt springs are the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate. The museums provide glimpses into the past and the local culture. For a journey into the forgotten era of the land, walk through the forts and old villages that stand as relics.
This museum is housed in an imposing 19th century fort and contains some remarkable archaeological remains. It exhibits artefacts from the earliest settlers of the land in the Neolithic period and also provides an insight into the traditional life in the emirate from the Islamic period. There is a collection of political documents and treaties that are of historical value. Other items of attraction include colourful ceramic shards and intricately designed vessels from the Iron Age.
Ras Al Kaimah Pearl Museum
This museum is dedicated to pearl diving, which is an important occupation in the emirates since ancient times. The techniques of the occupation and the various tools and gears used by the divers are showcased here. The story behind this occupation and its role in the economy of the region is also highlighted. In addition, there is a striking collection of pearls that the visitors can look through. Apart from pearl diving, it also provides information on occupations like date growing, fishing and farming.
Dhayah fort
Built in the 19th century on a hilltop, this is the highest fort in UAE. In 1819, the fort played an important role in the conflict between the British forces and the tribes of Ras al-Khaimah. The steep ranges of the Hajar Mountains and the green palm gardens make the surrounding views exquisite. There are two towers facing each other across a courtyard that is a great place to view the colours of sunset.
Jazirat Al Hamra
The once flourishing pearl fishing village of Jazirat Al Hamra was home to the Zaab tribe. With the rise of oil wealth and rapid urbanisation, the village was gradually abandoned by its inhabitants. After it was completely deserted in 1968 the village was left untouched for decades. Presently it presents an eerie scenario with abandoned houses and dusty tracks. Once a year, the old residents return to their ancestral homes to reunite and honour the glories of the past.
Husn al-Shimal Fort
The small town of Shimal is dotted with ancient tombs and burial sites dating back to 2000 BC. Items like Pottery, stone vessels, and weapons made of bronze and copper have been discovered from multiple archaeological excavations in the area. A circular tomb dating back to the Umm al-Nar age is another attraction. The fort is located at the top of a rock formation and offers a great view of the surrounding arid landscape. It was built at the earlier part of the Islamic era and the right place for any history buff.
Khatt Springs
The mountainous terrain of Khat village has three different natural thermal springs in a complex. The water is rich in various minerals and is considered to have multiple healing properties. The pools have a depth of 90 feet in places and the water temperature can reach up to 40 degree centigrade. The complex is presently a part of a spa based hotel that offer various therapeutic treatments. The large valley is lined with shady date palm trees and farmhouses that enhance its beauty. There are more than 150 archaeological sites in the area that are open to visitors.
Hajar Mountains
Rising almost 2000 metres above the sea level, the Hajar Mountains are the highest in UAE. They were formed almost 70 million years ago and add a majestic backdrop to the landscape of Ras Al Khaimah. The highest point is Jebel Jais and it offers a splendid view of the desert landscape. A 20 kilometre long road winds along the mountainside leading to the highest point. The range offers eleven different hiking and trekking trails ideal for adventure and nature lovers.
5.8 Wadi Shawka
With off-road trails bordered by mountains, natural springs and greenery Wadi Shawka offers a perfect retreat away from the urban environment. The region is ideal for hikers, cyclists and off-road drivers as well. The dam in the area also offers a tranquil water body that is a perfect spot for camping. There are small villages to discover along the trail that are perfect for interacting with the locals. It is also an ideal destination for a day trip with the family.
Travel Experiences
When it comes to activities and a rush of adrenaline, Ras Al Khaima has a lot to offer. The blue waters of the Arabian Sea are host to a range of exciting water sports. For those who seek a higher dose of thrill, the zip line ride from Jebel Jais is the perfect experience. The hiking trails across the mountain ranges takes one through some spectacular wild terrains. You can also choose an adventure ride across the desert or relax in an Arabic tent while enjoying some of the choicest local delicacies.
Water Sports
When you are seeking some excitement on the beach, there are plenty of options like jet- ski, parasailing, kayaking, fly-boarding and paddle boarding. The experiences are designed for the novice swimmer as well as the professional enthusiast. There are also options to engage in deep-sea fishing. You will be guided by experts and the high standards of the equipment and the safety levels are maintained.
Hiking
The hikes along the dry river beds or wadis open up spectacular vistas of dry mountains and wide valleys. The rocky terrain is devoid of any vegetation and almost feels like another planet. A route through Wadi Shah, can take you right to the highest point of Jebel Jais. Apart from the stunning vistas, you can also meet a few wild animals like mountain goats and donkeys. Make sure that you carry enough water for the path.
A game of golf
Ras Al Khaimah have top class golf courses that allow golfers to enjoy the game. The 18-hole Al Hamra Golf Club is one of the best in UAE. It has four interconnected lagoons that merge with the waters of the gulf. The course offers all modern facilities and is equipped with a restaurant and a bar. The Tower Links Golf Course is another option that combines the game of golf with the beauty of a mangrove reserve and the Hajar mountain range. It also has a spa and a restaurant to make help you enjoy some relaxed hours.
When you are seeking some thrill, hurling down UAE’s highest peak while attached to a zipline can be a worthwhile experience. The zip line at Jebel Jais Mountain is the longest in the world with a length of 2.83 kilometres. You will reach a speed of around 120 kilometres per hour while hanging from the line, making it a special experience. The launching platform is located at an altitude of 1,680 meters and offers breath-taking views of the surrounding.
Go on a Cruise
Enjoy a ride on a traditional wooden dhow and enjoy a day of luxury over the Persian Gulf. The ride will move along the coastline that will allow you to enjoy some of the best views of the city. The cruise will also include a variety of water sports like swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling. You can also enjoy a sunset cruise and watch the Arabian Sea turn golden as the sun sets.
Parasailing
Ras Al Khaimah offers a memorable experience when it comes to parasailing. The para-sail yoke will be hooked to a speedboat moving at a safe sped over the water. From a height of around 150 metres from the water surface, you will be able to enjoy the stunning views from a comfortable seated position. There can be single, tandem and triple parasailing trips depending on your preferences.
Desert Safari
An evening desert safari is a perfect way to enjoy the serenity of the desert landscape. Head for an oasis in a 4×4 vehicle across the stunning vistas of golden sands. Enjoy the tastes of Arabian dates and engage in activities like sandboarding and camel riding. The evening gets eventful with folk dance performances and a special dinner of desert cuisines. Off-road vehicles can also take you for a thrilling ride along the slopes of the sand dunes.
Learn about Falconry
Visit a falcon show where you can learn about the tradition of falconry and observe the finest display of these hunting birds. Falconry is one of the most ancient customs adopted by the Bedouins for the purpose of hunting in the desert. A falcon is captured by each individual during their migrating season and with time, the bird becomes a part of the family. It used to take a period of 4 to 6 weeks to train a falcon before heading out for a hunting trip with it. You can also head to a rehabilitation and breeding centre to learn more about the birds.
Wellness and Spa
Ras Al Khaimah has some of the best wellness and spa resorts that will help you to de-stress. The rejuvenating treatments use ancient healing methods and natural therapies to detoxify and rejuvenate the body. You can also enjoy a relaxing session of body scrub, special facials or a therapeutic massage. Some of the best wellness retreats are the Cove Rotana Resort, Hilton Al Hamra Beach and the The Cove Rotana Resort.
Best Beaches
Ras Al Khaimah offers some of the best beaches to enjoy the warmth of the Arabian Sea. Most of these stunning beaches are private and associated with various hotels. There are also a few private beaches that have all the facilities required to enjoy with the family. Apart from relaxing on the white sands, you can enjoy a variety of water sports and boat rides.
The hotel has a 350 metre long private beach that is perfect to enjoy the warmth of the Arabian Sea. The white sands offer the right smoothness to relax and enjoy the views.
The hotel provides an experience of staying in Arabic villas by the beachside. Enjoy the beauty of the azure waters right from the villa or while relaxing in the pool.
Pacific Studio
This Pacific Studio is a great option for enjoying the Arabian Sea from the terrace. The private beach is a great spot to enjoy the sunset colours.
Rixos Bab Al Bahr
This hotel has one of the best private beaches in Ras Al Khaimah and a whole range of luxurious facilities. There is also a kids club and arrangement for water sports.
Double Tree
A 650 metre long private beach bordered by the azure sea awaits the guests in this hotel. There are also other facilities like a spa, a rooftop swimming pool and a fitness center.
Located on the beachfront, this hotel offers a luxurious experience along with a serene private beach. Relax on a private balcony with the blue expanse of the Arabian Sea spreading in front of you.
Flamingo Beach
The beach is named after the two giant flamingo statues on it. The beach is a popular choice with seating areas, parking zones and plenty of restaurants that offer fine food along with great views.
Al Hamra Beach
This public beach offers a long stretch of golden sand that is less visited by tourists. While there are no modern facilities or sunbeds, it is the right spot to enjoy the natural combination of the sea and sand.
Local Food & Beverage
Ras Al Khaimah is special in terms of dining experiences as the region offers a whole range of multi-cultural cuisine. The combination of top flavours from around the world along with finger-licking delights from the local cuisine, makes it a blissful destination for food lovers. From Japanese sushi to the Indian curry and further to the Italian pasta, the range of dishes to choose from is extensive.
On the local front, the dates, camel dairy and meat and rice dishes prepared with the special Emirati spice mix are worth the taste. The most common food is the shawarma which is a non-vegetarian delicacy prepared with a varied range of materials. Al Harees is an exotic dish made from white and meat and prepared during festivities. Try Al Machboos, the most popular food of UAE with rice, meat, onion and dried lemon as main ingredients.
For desserts, choose the Luqaimat which are crunchy sweet dumplings or the special pastry called Knafeh. The Arabic coffee with its delightful aroma is a major attraction for the lovers of the drink. Do not miss the taste of Karak, the national drink, which is available in most roadside shops.
Piaceri Da Gustare
Category: Italian, European, Mediterranean
Located in the Hilton Ras Al Khaimah, the restaurant offers some classic Italian dishes. From the pizza to the Penne Arrabiata and the salads, each dish is a perfect combination of flavouring and seasoning.
Address: Al Maareedh St.,Ras Al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Website: https://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/uae/hilton-ras-al-khaimah-resort-and-spa-RKTRSHI/dining/index.html
Piaceri Da Gustare
Category: Italian, European, Mediterranean
This is the perfect spot to enjoy some traditional Italian recipes along with lovely views across the sea. Do not miss the wood-fired pizzas and delicious pasta that exude true Italian flavours.
Address: DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa, Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah 14800,
Sanchaya
Category: Chinese, Japanese, Sushi
The large terrace of this restaurant with its panoramic views of the sea will allow you to enjoy some of the best Asian cuisines. The sushi, duck noodles and the scallops are some gastronomical delights that you should not miss.
Address: DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa, Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah 14800,
Kpopchicken
Category: Asian, Korean
Located at the waterfront, this restaurant serves the right range of Korean flavours. It has a family-friendly ambience and the large variety of chicken dishes are deliciously appetizing.
Address: Shop 5 & 6, Building 12, Mina al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Peppermill
Category: Asian, Indian
The choicest recipes and alluring flavours make this restaurant a great choice for fine dining. The stylish interiors complement the royal flavours of the curries, biriyanis and salads.
Address: Ground Floor, Al Naeem Mall – Ras al Khaimah – United Arab Emirates
Website: https://peppermill.ae
India Palace
Category: Asian, Indian
The restaurant offers the rich heritage of Indian cuisine in a sophisticated setting. Soft kebabs and the mutton delicacies are some of the favourites. It is also vegetarian friendly.
Address: Airport Rd | Khuzam, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Website: https://indiapalace.ae
Seafood Restaurant
Category: Seafood
When it comes to the best cuisines from the fresh catch, this restaurant is the right choice. The grilled squids, crabs and seafood tajine are not to be missed.
Address: Vienna St. | Al Hamra Residence, Ras Al Khaimah 35604, United Arab Emirates
Al Moohit Restaurant
Category: Seafood, Mediterranean
The simple décor of the restaurant does not distract the gourmets from the outstanding range of seafood cuisine it offers. You cannot go wrong with the seafood platter, garlic butter lobster or the grilled mussels.
Address: Cornish Alqwasem Beside Hsbc Bank, Ras Al Khaimah 0971, United Arab Emirates
Shopping
The shopping experience in Ras Al Khaimah is concentrated around the various skilfully designed shopping malls. They offer a wide variety of luxury products ranging from the extravagant to the unique. Apart from a diverse range of products including clothes, jewellery, electronics and beauty, they also contain hypermarkets, cafes, restaurants and multiple entertainment options.
RAK Mall
This is a modern mall with a variety of fashion and lifestyle stores. There are also options for fine dining along with a range of entertainments. You can enjoy Ice skating, Go Karting, Foot Ball and a 7 Dimensional movie experience.
Address: Khuzam Road, Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirate
Al Naeem Mall
This four-storeyed mall has a variety of brands with a wide range of luxury products. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants along with a movie theatre. There is also an entire floor marked for kids.
Address: Bin Daher Street, P.O.Box: 4888. Ras Al Khaimah
Manar Mall
This mall has a hypermarket along with more than 120 outlets from top international brands. The products range from fashion, beauty, health and baby care. It also offers fly fishing and water sports along with a waterfront area for admiring the views.
Address: Al Muntasir Road, Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Al Hamra Mall
Due to its strategic location, this is a popular spot for tourists. The wide range of shops sells a variety of products at a reasonable price. It also has a first-class food court and a separate zone for kids.
Address: E11 Sheikh Mohammad Bin Salem Road, Al Hamra, Ras al Khaimah
Souq Planet
With the shops designed in traditional Arabian style and elegant wooden interiors, this mall stands out from the rest. It is the right place for authentic Arabian products and for picking up souvenirs.
Address: Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Carrefour
This is the most popular hypermarket in UAE and a good place to buy food items and electronic goods. The food products are fresh and there are plenty of offers providing the best deal.
Address: Safeer Mall, Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Nightlife
There are quite a few clubs and cafes in Ras Al Khaimah that guarantee an exciting time during the dark hours. Be it a quiet dinner by the waterfront or a lively setting in a bar, the region offers the right blend of the vibrant and the elegant. There are also quiet hubs for socialising and spending the night hours in good company.
Mai Tai lounge
Category: Cocktail Bars
The cosy setting is ideal for enjoying some zesty cocktails along with the right bites. Combine the rhythm of the live Latin music with Hula Hoop, their special cocktail.
Address: Al Hamra Vienna Street, Ras Al Khaimah 1468, United Arab Emirates
Belgian Beer Cafe
Category: Cocktail Bars
The cafe serves a large variety of Belgian-inspired cuisine along with Belgian beers. The delightful taste of the food and the warmth of the ambience makes this a popular choice for tourists.
Address: Vienna St – Ras al Khaimah – United Arab Emirates
The Bay Sports Bar
Category: Cocktail Bars
Located in the clubhouse of the Al Hamra Golf Club this is a buzzing zone for families and friends to meet and enjoy some quality food and drinks. The nights are made spirited with a variety of live performances
Address: Vienna St – Ras al Khaimah – United Arab Emirates
Rotana Cafe and Restaurant
Category: Cocktail Bars
This is the perfect place to get together with friends and enjoy a few drinks. The large TV screens also allow the visitors to enjoy and sports event.
Address: Sheikh Muhammad Bin Salem St. Next to Centrepoint – Ras al Khaimah – United Arab Emirates
17Squared
Category: Cocktail Bars
The bar is located inside the Waldorf Astoria and the interiors are decorated with a refined touch. Choose from a wide range of champagnes, designer cocktails and mocktails.
Address: Waldorf Astoria, Vienna St, Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
XclusiV
Category: Cocktail Bars
This bar cum nightclub has an animated ambience that makes it a popular choice for the clubbers. It also offers a special Ladies Night every night with some pulse-pounding live music.
Address: Waldorf Astoria, Vienna St, Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Trends and Events
The Emirates region celebrates a variety of colourful cultural festivals throughout the year. From religious and cultural events to the celebration of the artistic spirit, these festivals have varied themes. The colourful events are marked by plenty of food, games, fireworks and merrymaking. These festivals also bring together locals and tourists while highlighting the best features of Emirati traditions.
Ras Al Khaimah Happiness Festival
The four-day festival is an occasion for friends and families to come together and celebrate. The streets are lined with street food trucks and various games and carnivals are organised. There will also be performances by local bands and DJs along with comedy shows. The concluding event includes a spectacular firework show over the sea.
Ramadan Festival
The largest event of the year blends the spiritual and cultural elements of the Emirate in a month-long celebration. Plenty of events are organised to showcase the heritage of the region, including open stage entertainment activities and live stage shows for children. To boost the local trade during the holy month, various pavilions are set up for selling local products and exhibit the Emirati heritage.
Awafi Festival
This is a festival that is enjoyed by tourists and locals alike in the desert area where a “heritage village” is set up. The foods and handicrafts are prepared in the traditional style along with music and dancing. There are also exciting events like the sand dune racing in 4×4 vehicles by some of the top drivers in Emirates. The three well long event also arranges zoos and special games for the children.
This four-day event gathers artists from all over the world and the Emirates. The festival encourages talent in the fields of photography, painting and film and supports the development of art across the country. There are visual arts and sculpture exhibitions along with film screenings. In 2020, the festival will focus on the significance of community in the modern technology driven world.
Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect destination to explore the true heritage of the Emirates. With the right balance between a metropolis, the blue sea and the stillness of the desert, it is definitely a worth a visit.
Check out some of the best off the beaten track destinations that we discuss in detail for you. Obviously the Covid-19 scenario had brought about some major changes in the travel patterns and destinations. But, with the details ready, you can always plan out your next trip in advance.
By Ananya Lahiri
© teleratz.com 2020
All rights reserved.
Teleratz 