Relaxing in Ras al Khaimah: A Hidden UAE Gem

Ras al Khaimah (RAK) is a hidden gem of the UAE that offers everyone a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. You can experience nature, culture, adventure, or luxury in this Emirate that has a rich history of over 7,000 years. 

Ras Al Khaimah is located in the north of the UAE, with a beautiful coastline and mountains. It has a population of about 345,000 and a name that means “top of the tent” in English. Ras Al Khaimah aims to become a world-class destination for leisure and business travel by 2025, with a sustainable tourism strategy that showcases its outstanding offerings.

The authority has revealed its complete Sustainable Tourism Destination Strategy that aims to make the Emirate the regional pioneer in eco-friendly tourism by 2025. This will help to draw 3 million visitors by 2030 to the nature-based Emirate. 

So what can you do in Ras al Khaimah to relax and enjoy your time? Here are some of the top places and activities that you might want to check out:

Jebel Jais

The UAE’s tallest mountain, with amazing views and exciting activities like the world’s longest zipline and a sky tour. Jebel Jais belongs to the stunning Hajar mountain range that stretches from Ras al Khaimah to Oman.

The peak soars 1,934 meters above sea level and boasts a cooler climate than the rest of the Emirate. You can drive up to a viewing platform near the top or take a shuttle bus from a parking area. There you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape or try some of the adventure attractions like Jais Flight, Jais Sky Tour, or Jais Ropes Course. You can also stay overnight at the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp  or stay at one of the luxury hotels on Al Marjan Island.

Al Hamra Mall

A shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, a cinema, a food court, and a kids’ play area. Al Hamra Mall is located in Al Hamra Village, a waterfront community with residential and commercial properties.

The mall offers a variety of local and international brands, as well as services like banking, pharmacy, and salon. You can also enjoy dining options ranging from fast food to fine dining. For entertainment, you can watch movies at VOX Cinemas or let your kids have fun at Funville Play Area.

Manar Mall

Another shopping and entertainment hub with over 150 stores, a waterfront promenade, a cinema, and a fun zone. Manar Mall is situated in the Nakheel area, near Ras al Khaimah city center. The mall features a mix of fashion, lifestyle, and sports outlets, as well as hypermarkets like Carrefour and Lulu. You can also savor cuisines from around the world at one of the many restaurants or cafes. 

Wadi Shawka

A natural oasis with hiking trails, picnic spots, waterfalls, and wildlife. Wadi Shawka is a seasonal watercourse that transforms as rain falls over the mountains. It is famous for its dam, a beauty spot, and a destination for outdoor sports. 

The valley has a long history of farming and many old settlements that are now deserted. You can admire the beauty of the landscape or discover the ancient remains, the rare goat, secluded camping spots, and countless rocky mountain paths and trails for hiking, running, and cycling.

The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah

A historical and cultural museum housed in a former fort, displaying artifacts, weapons, costumes, and documents. The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah is located on Al Hisn Road in Ras al Khaimah. It was originally a residence of the ruling family until 1964. 

The museum showcases the history and heritage of the Emirate, from prehistoric times to the present day. You can see exhibits of archaeological finds, traditional crafts, pearl diving equipment, manuscripts, and coins. You can also learn about the local customs, traditions, and folklore.

RAK Desert Safari

A thrilling adventure in the desert with quad biking, camel riding, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner. RAK Desert Safari is a tour company that offers various packages to explore the desert landscape of Ras al Khaimah. 

You can experience the thrill of quad biking on the sand dunes, the joy of camel riding on the desert trails, the fun of sandboarding down the slopes, and the delight of watching the sunset over the horizon. You can also enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner at a Bedouin-style camp, with live entertainment like belly dancing and a fire show.

Musandam Dibba Cruise

A scenic cruise along the coast of Oman, with snorkeling, swimming, fishing, and lunch on board. Musandam Dibba Cruise is a tour company that offers full-day cruises to Dibba, a town on the border of Oman and UAE. 

You can enjoy the views of the rugged mountains and fjords along the coast, as well as spot dolphins and other marine life. You can also take part in activities like snorkeling, swimming, and fishing in the clear waters. You can also savor a buffet lunch on board, with Arabic and international dishes.

Action Flight Hot Air Balloon Ride

A spectacular flight over the desert and the mountains, with a chance to see wildlife like gazelles and oryxes. Action Flight is a company that offers hot air balloon rides in Ras al Khaimah. 

You can experience the thrill of flying over 4,000 feet above sea level, with panoramic views of the desert landscape with the Jebel Jais mountain range in the backdrop. You can also spot animals like gazelles and oryxes roaming freely in their natural habitat. You can also enjoy a light breakfast after landing.

Wrapping Up

As you can see, Ras al Khaimah is a hidden gem of the UAE that offers a relaxing and enjoyable vacation for everyone. Whether you want to experience nature, culture, adventure, or luxury, you will find it in this Emirate. 

Ras al Khaimah is a destination that will surprise you with its diversity and charm. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Ras al Khaimah today and discover its wonders for yourself.