Ras Al Khaimah Airport: The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

Are you planning a trip to Jebel Jais or the Hajar mountains? Or do you perhaps wish to visit Dhayah Fort? These are just a couple of the most popular attractions Ras Al Khaimah has to offer.

Situated in the northernmost part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) bordering Oman, Ras Al Khaimah houses natural and manmade attractions that draw tourists from all over the globe. In fact, its popularity continues to grow to the point that both UAE residents and international passengers book their flights so they arrive directly at the Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.

If you’re planning to travel there, this Ras Al Khaimah airport guide will show you all the important things you must know to get the best travel experience.

Ras Al Khaimah Airport: An Overview

The Ras Al Khaimah International Airport was established in 1976. Decades later, it underwent upgrades and expansion in 2007, serving as a midway for the Far East and Europe and a gateway for Ras Al Khaimah residents to the world and vice versa.

Presently, the airport boasts a 3,760-meter-long runway, technical support for aircraft, and a control tower. Although it already has modern, state-of-the-art facilities, the airport is set for further expansion in the future.

Terminal and Facilities

The Ras Al Khaimah Airport has significant facilities available today, including two passenger terminal buildings, a cargo terminal facility, car parking, and an administrative building that also serves as security and staff accommodation.

Here’s a brief overview of the terminals and facilities available at the Ras Al Khaimah airport:

Passenger Terminal

Ras Al Khaimah airport arrivals and departures happen in separate terminals, each designed for an efficient travel experience. Some of the essential facilities in each terminal include:

• Immigrations services
• Checking counters

The passenger terminals are equipped with automated baggage handling systems and operate around the clock.

VIP Terminal and Lounges

If you’re traveling business class, you can take advantage of the Ras Al Khaimah airport lounge and terminal for VIPs. It can accommodate up to 60 passengers at a time and is accessible to premium-class passengers for a fee of AED 100, except for those boarding Qatar Airways, who receive complimentary access.

Luggage Rules

If traveling with a lot of luggage, you must understand the baggage rules at Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.

In March 2019, the airport announced that bags must have at least one flat surface to be accepted at check-in. If you happen to bring one that doesn’t meet this requirement, you can have it repacked into an approved cardboard box available at the wrapping center for a minimal fee.

Here are a few other rules you need to know:

• Avoid wrapping your baggage with rope or string and use strong tape instead. Never tape two or more pieces of baggage together.
• The luggage must not be longer than 90 centimeters, higher than 75 cm, and wider than 60 cm.
• Any excess baggage needs to be re-packed. These also incur additional baggage fees.

Following these rules will help you avoid any inconvenience or delay during your trip.

Duty-Free Shopping

Shopping duty-free at Ras Al Khaimah Airport offers a hassle-free experience. Open 24 hours a day for passengers in both the departure and arrival terminals, the Ras Al Khaimah Airport duty-free shop sells a wide range of products, including:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Perfumes
• Souvenirs
• Confectionary
• Food items
• Beauty and healthcare items
• Gift items
• Fashion accessories
• Electronics

There are also quite a few product promotions and deals available at the airport’s duty-free stores all year round.

Short on cash? You can also find ATM and money exchange facilities there.

Food Establishments

Fill up on delicious food before your flight at the Ras Al Khaimah Airport food court. Before departure, you can sample a variety of dishes served, from fast food and desserts to international cuisines.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to explore more dishes, go beyond what’s in the airport and research the best restaurants in Ras Al Khaimah ahead of your trip.

Prayer Area and Medical Facilities

The airport pays attention to other essential needs of passengers beyond food and pre-flight facilities. Among the most notable facilities are the prayer area and emergency medical station.

If you wish to perform salah, you can visit the prayer rooms available in both the arrival and departure terminals. There is also a mosque near the departure terminal parking area.

Feeling under the weather? You can find a nurse at the airport’s medical facilities (for minor complaints). For more serious medical issues, ambu-lifts and ambulances can take patients to the best hospitals in the emirate, including the SAQR Hospital, Saif Hospital, RAK Hospital, and Al Zahrawi Hospital.

Cargo Terminal

The Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has a dedicated cargo terminal reserved for freight. Among the facilities you’ll find here include:

• Warehousing
• Cold storage
• Customs clearance

This is one of the airport’s most crucial features, as it capitalizes on cargo service, which significantly contributes to the emirate’s economy.

Nearby Attractions

Preparing your itinerary? Here are a few of the best places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah that are near the airport:

Al Hamra Village

About 25 minutes from the airport, this luxury residential community houses various resorts, accommodations, and an 18-hole golf course.

Jebel Jais

Dubbed the highest peak in the UAE, Jebel Jais is only an hour from Ras Al Khaimah Airport (by car). It is one of the most popular destinations in the emirate, thanks to the amazing views, hiking trails, and the award-winning zipline Jais Flight.

Dhayah Fort

Are you planning to immerse yourself in Ras Al Khaimah’s history? Consider visiting Dhayah Fort, which is roughly 30 minutes from the airport.

This castle-like structure, dating back to the 19th century, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

Your Gateway to a Seamless Adventure

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has everything you need for a smooth, stress-free travel experience. From efficient terminals and VIP lounges to duty-free shopping and nearby attractions, the airport is an excellent gateway for travelers who wish to see the best of the northernmost emirate. Book your flight today and follow this guide to make the most of your trip.