The northernmost emirate in the UAE, known for its Hajar Mountains, ancient forts, and long beaches. Home to Jebel Jais, the country's highest peak.
Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate of the UAE, stretches along 64 km of Persian Gulf coastline and encompasses rugged mountains and desert landscapes. You can soar down the 2.83 km Jebel Jais zipline, wander through the mud-brick houses of Al Jazirah Al Hamra, or relax on white sand beaches. Whether you're seeking adventure or a calm retreat, Ras Al Khaimah offers experiences for various interests and preferences.
Beaches, Mountains and Desert Landscapes
Ras Al Khaimah's terrain includes white sand beaches along the Persian Gulf, the craggy Hajar Mountains, and expanses of desert. The calm gulf waters are suitable for swimming and water sports. Inland, the red dunes of Al Wadi Nature Reserve create striking desert vistas. Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest peak at 1,934 meters, dominates the mountain landscape with views extending to the gulf.
Mountain and Desert Adventures
On Jebel Jais, you'll find the world's longest zipline at 2.83 km. You can reach speeds up to 150 km/h while suspended above mountain valleys. The Jebel Jais Via Ferrata offers a climbing route and three zipline sections. Hiking trails of varying difficulty wind through the Hajar Mountains. In the desert, you can drive 4x4 vehicles over the dunes or try sandboarding.
Exploring Past and Present
The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, located in an 18th century fort, displays artifacts spanning 7,000 years. You'll see items from the Bronze Age through the late Islamic period. In Al Jazirah Al Hamra, you can walk through an abandoned pearl fishing village with mud brick houses, a mosque, and fort left largely untouched since the 1960s. Dhayah Fort, an 18th century hilltop structure, overlooks date palm orchards and the sea.
Where to Stay
Beachfront resorts line the coast, including Waldorf Astoria, Hilton, and Ritz-Carlton properties. The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert has villas set among the dunes. You'll find more affordable hotels and apartment rentals in Ras Al Khaimah City. You can camp in the desert or mountains with proper permits.
Transportation
Most visitors arrive via Dubai International Airport, about 1-1.5 hours away by car. Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has limited international flights. Within the emirate, taxis and rental cars are the main transportation options. An intercity bus connects Ras Al Khaimah to Dubai and other emirates.
Local and International Cuisine
Emirati dishes often combine meat or fish with rice and spices like saffron, cardamom and turmeric. Try machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat or seafood. You'll find most international cuisines at resort restaurants. In the Old Souk area, small cafes and restaurants serve Middle Eastern fare in casual settings.
When to Visit
October to April brings warm days and cool nights, ideal for many activities. This is peak season with higher prices. Summer months (May-September) see extreme heat but lower hotel rates. During Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, business hours and dining options may be limited when it falls in the cooler months.
