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Ras Al Khaimah is not just one of the seven emirates of the UAE—it’s the northernmost and one of the most stunning. A true summer paradise, it offers golden beaches, majestic mountains, and deep cultural roots. Whether you’re seeking seaside serenity, cultural exploration, or thrilling adventures, this emirate truly has it all!
Getting around is easy if you rent a car in Ras Al Khaimah, allowing you to explore remote mountain trails, heritage villages, and pristine beaches at your own pace. From the heights of Jebel Jais to the shores of Al Marjan Island, the journey itself becomes part of the experience.
Go for the Jebel Jais Adventure
Location: Jebel Jais Mountain
Website: visitjebeljais.com
Jebel Jais is the highest mountain in the UAE and a top spot for adventure lovers. You can try the Jais Flight, which is the world’s longest zipline, or go on the Jais Sky Tour, which has smaller ziplines and walking bridges. There’s also the fun Jais Sledder, a mountain ride that twists down the slopes, and the Jais Rope Course for those who like to climb and swing.
For nature lovers, there are hiking trails and viewing decks where you can enjoy the mountain views. If you want to learn survival skills, check out the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp.
Hike Through Wadi Shawka
Location: Wadi Shawka
Wadi Shawka is a great place for a nature walk or hike. It’s only about an hour away from Dubai and offers different trails for all ages and fitness levels. You’ll find rocky hills, small water pools, and lovely mountain views. The Shawka Dam stair trail is a popular route and gives you amazing photo opportunities from the top. It’s a peaceful and refreshing break from the city.
Discover Pearl Farming at Suwaidi Pearls
Location: Al Rams
Contact: (07) 221 1124
Website: suwaidi-pearls.com
At Suwaidi Pearls, you will learn the pearl diving tradition of the UAE. The place is run by the grandson of one of the last pearl divers in the country. You’ll take a boat ride, visit the mangroves, and even get the chance to open an oyster – and who knows, maybe you’ll find a pearl inside!
On this equipment, you might see camels on the beach or turtles swimming nearby. Extra fun is to kayak through the calm waters.
Explore the Historic Village of Al Jazeera Al Hamra
Location: Al Jazeera Al Hamra
Website: visitrasalkhaimah.com
Al Jazeera Al Hamra is a preserved heritage village that brings you back to the soil and shows pre-UAE living. You will see old coral stone houses, watchtowers, and a traditional mosque. The former fishing and pearling village tells the story of the men who lived here many decades ago.
Enjoy the Maldives-like Banan Beach
Location: Al Marjan Island
Contact: (07) 235 3566
Website: bananbeach.com
Thinking about a beach trip? Banan Beach – Santorini-style resort with its colorful tents, private chalets, infinity pools, and BBQ area just perfect for groups, couples, or families in search of a fun-filled weekend is an ideal choice. You can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a drink while lying on the beach.
Dine Under the Stars at Sonara Camp
Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Al Wadi Desert
Contact: (050) 336 7909
Website: nara.ae
Sonara Camp is the perfect place to dine in a magical desert. You will experience a relaxed evening that includes a tasty dinner, camel rides, sandboarding, and live entertainment. Children can watch a movie under the stars while adults unwind in a beautiful natural environment.
Try Afternoon Tea at the Highest Restaurant in the UAE
Location: 1484 by Puro, Jebel Jais
Contact: (07) 244 5018
Website: puro.ae
You can have spectacular views of the mountain while sipping tea or having a meal at 1484 by Puro, the country’s highest restaurant. With lots of glass walls and seating areas outside, it makes a good place to have a light lunch or an afternoon tea or a romantic dinner.
Sunset from Neo Sky Bar
Location: Movenpick Resort, Al Marjan Island
Contact: (07) 246 0134
Website: movenpick.com
Neo Sky Bar is the first rooftop bar in Ras Al Khaimah, and it boasts breathtaking views of the sea and city. At this modern spot for evening drinks, you have a Mediterranean-style food menu and a relaxing vibe – perfect for watching the sunset and socializing.
Fly in a Hot Air Balloon with ActionFlight
Location: Ras Al Khaimah Desert
Website: actionflight.ae
Experience the desert landscape seen from over with a hot air balloon flight at sunrise. The deal also includes hotel transfers, light breakfast and a falcon show afterwards. It is an unforgettable experience, a peaceful way to enjoy the desert beauty.
Discover Dhayah Fort – A Fragment of UAE History
Location: Al Rams, Ras Al Khaimah
Website: visitrasalkhaimah.com
If you are a fan of history and want to take in some breathtaking sights, walking up to Dhayah Fort is a must-do. This is the only remaining hillfort in the UAE and it has been standing since the Late Bronze Age (around 1600–1300 BC). The fort gained fame for a battle that took place in 1819 between the British forces and the local Qawasim tribes.
The climb to the top is a challenge because you need to climb 239 steps that zigzag up the hill – so it is advisable to wear comfy shoes! The fortune at the altitude is the nice view that you get of the mountains, date palm trees, and some parts of Oman. Don’t forget to check the Wadi Souq tombs at the base, which date from around 2000 to 1300 BC.
Read the National Museum and Learn About the Story of the Emirate
Location: Al Hisn Road, Old Ras Al Khaimah
Entry: 5 Dhs
Contact: (07) 233 3411
Website: rakheritage.rak.ae
The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect place to explore the deep-rooted history of the emirate. RAK is one of the oldest inhabited places in the world and the museum displays objects from over 1000 archaeological sites.
In the museum, you will find exhibits of tools, weapons, pottery, traditional clothing, and documents that depict how life was in the past. It is an educational but peaceful stop that suits families, school trips and anyone who is interested in UAE heritage.
Unwind and Discover Nature at Flamingo Beach
Location: Near the Clock Roundabout, Ras Al Khaimah City, and Al Hamra
Flamingo Beach is a secluded and clean area that’s perfect for a family day out or just for a quiet swim. While Dubai has many unique beaches, this one is not like them as it is a natural piece of art and is peaceful.
It is located near the mangroves in Mina Al Arab so, if you are lucky, you can spot colorful flamingos or even a camel cooling off in the water. The beach is especially beautiful at sunset when the sky is colored, and the waves are calm. The shallow and warm waters also make it a good place for kids to play or learn swimming.
Walk in the Historical Fishing Town of Al Rams
Location: Al Rams Corniche, Al Rams Road, Ras Al Khaimah
Open Daily | Free Access
Website: visitrasalkhaimah.com
Al Rams is one of the older coastal areas in Ras Al Khaimah. This village, with a peaceful atmosphere, is home to the Tanaij tribe, who live between the sea and the mountains. The area is perfect for relaxing and admiring traditional local life.
Take a slow walk along the corniche, visit the old architecture, or explore local shops and markets. You’ll also find protected date palm groves and natural sandbars in the area. And, of course, no visit here is complete without a cup of strong Arabic coffee.
Experience the Local Tale at Al Qassimi Palace
Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Road, Al Dhait North, Ras Al Khaimah
Entry: From Dhs50
Contact: (052) 828 2222
For something that will totally blow your mind, why not visit the Al Qassimi Palace which was once-abandoned? This four-storey mansion built for Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Qasimi was empty for 35 years. Some say the family moved out after just one night due to mysterious happenings which sparked ghost stories and rumors.
Now that the palace is opened for public, it is no longer considered scary, on the contrary, it is a beautifully designed building. It has marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and eye-catching artwork that fills its 35 rooms. The room with a triangle-shaped structure that is located at the top of the house is the most fascinating. Whether you believe in the tales or not, this is one of the most extraordinary places to see in Ras Al Khaimah.
Conclusion
Ras Al Khaimah is the ultimate destination for sun, nature, history, and relaxation. If you are a history person, an adventurer, or you just want to relax in a peaceful natural place, this emirate is waiting for you. The friendly environment, cultural activities, and various experiences make it a very attractive destination for both short trips and long holidays. Life at a slow pace helps to take a break from the busy city without forgetting to offer everything that is needed for a memorable trip.
