Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. Although not as well known as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, this spot has a lot to offer in terms of tourism and attractions for travelers. When visiting the UAE, it’s a good idea to keep Ras Al Khaimah in mind and to take a couple of days to explore the city and all it has to offer.
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is one of the UAE’s lesser-known emirates and rarely does it receive the credit it deserves: while visitors line up to visit Dubai and Abu Dhabi, this natural wonder is often overlooked. In fact, the picturesque city is home to a wide selection of activities ideal for active travelers, as well as UAE residents looking for a quick staycation. Here’s why you should make your way to the ‘forgotten emirate’.
It makes for an ideal weekend getaway
Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect weekend getaway from Dubai. Only an hour and a half away from the city center by car, the emirate offers quiet and pristine beaches, as well as mountains with scenic views of the emirate. Not only is RAK picturesque, but it is also peaceful: still relatively unknown, this is the perfect place to escape Dubai’s notorious crowds.
Background
Ras Al Khaimah is best known for its cultural and archaeological heritage. The Emirate has a vast array of historical sites, including ruins that are open to the public. Additionally, it has unique and splendid nature, combining the beauty of the coast, mountains, and desert, as well as natural hot springs and mangroves. Ras Al Khaimah provides an entertaining visit for everyone—from history enthusiasts to nature lovers to people just looking for a relaxing getaway at a resort. Whatever the heart desires, this Emirate can offer.
It’s full of hiking trails
Populated by hiking trails suited for all levels of expertise, Ras Al Khaimah boasts nature walking as one of its most popular activities. Some of the best places to hike in RAK are the Hajar Mountains and Jebel Jais, the latter best known for being the highest mountain in the UAE, standing proud at 1,934 meters (6,345 feet) tall and offering a breathtaking view for adventurers.
There are record-breaking adventures on offer
Ras Al Khaimah has recently opened doors to the longest zip line in the world, certified by Guinness World Records. Located in Jebel Jais, those looking for a thrill can head here and fly through the mountains for a distance longer than 28 football fields, at 2.83 km (1.76 miles). The zip line can accommodate 250 people a day, and slots can be booked online.
Epic beach resorts are the norm
When it comes to going off the grid and getting pampered in a luxury resort, Ras Al Khaimah has no shortage of options. With beach resorts including the Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, and the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, the city is home to some of the biggest names in hospitality, all offering high-end services that include spa days and watersports. These luxury venues are ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike – you can’t go wrong.
Attractions
Perhaps the most notorious attraction in Ras Al Khaimah is the Jazirat Al Hamra village, better known as Ghost Town. The ruins of this abandoned village are rumored to be haunted by jinns, which are paranormal creatures of fire from Islamic folklore that is known for causing havoc and inhabiting abandoned dwellings. Ghost Town dates back to the 14th century, and people are welcome to come by and walk around—at their own risk!
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Ras Al Khaimah zip-line is an ideal attraction to visit. The Via Ferrata concept, which started in the Alps, has its own spot in this Emirate and takes visitors on a steel cable alongside Ras Al Khaimah’s striking mountains. The route is one kilometer (0.6 miles) and includes three different zip-lines—as well as a magnificent view.
The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah is a perfect place to learn more about this Emirate’s history, populated by ancient artifacts that tell its story. The building itself dates back hundreds of years and is home to documents, letters, and treaties between the rulers of Ras Al Khaimah and Great Britain.
You can explore the entire place’s wonder by taxi or rent a car in Ras Al Khaimah.
Cab service is an expensive option, but car rental is a more lucrative one. Choose Finalrentals for your car rental needs and get the best deal.
