Spectacular Sunset and Sunrise: Ras Al Khaimah’s Best Spots

The UAE’s sunrises and sunsets are renowned for their beauty and Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE’s most scenic Emirate, can offer many of the best viewpoints. You are guaranteed a special moment whether you are up early to witness dawn in the mountains or watching the sun dip below the horizon across the picture-perfect Arabian Gulf.

Here is a guide to the best spots for viewing the sunset and sunrise in Ras Al Khaimah.

Elevated Sunset and Sunrise in Ras Al Khaimah: Jebel Jais and the Hajar Mountains

Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE’s position on the Arabian Peninsula means that sunrise is best viewed from or looking towards the country’s mountains in the east.

Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, and its surrounding area offer spectacular sunset views and memorable trips. Here, you can immerse yourself in Ras Al Khaimah’s unspoiled natural beauty while climbing skywards.

Sunrises or Sunsets at Jebel Jais’ Towering Summit

At the summit of Jebel Jais at nearly 2,000m above sea level, seven separate lookout platforms allow you to appreciate the views in every direction. This makes this majestic mountain an unforgettable place to view both sunrise and sunset.

There are several ways to reach the peak. A hike at any time of day will give you time and space to unwind and enjoy the mountain’s flora, fauna and amazing scenery. Various routes head up Jebel Jais and across the Hajar mountain range, including those for hikes for kids on Jebel Jais. Take your time to ensure you are well-equipped with headtorches, water and extra clothing.

The roads up Jebel Jais are a straightforward but breathtaking way to ascend the mountain. Navigate hairpin bends and catch sweeping views from well-paved roads using bike, motorcycle, car or 4×4. As well as sunset and sunrise, be sure to make the most of the varied activities on Jebel Jais, including the world’s longest zipline, quaint cafes, and 1484 by Puro, the UAE’s highest restaurant.

Sunrise and Sunset: Ras Al Khaimah’s Tranquil Mountain Camps

There are excellent campgrounds in the Hajar Mountains. Why not stay a few days to experience both sunrise and sunset in the most beautiful and peaceful of environments?

Camp 1770

Camp 1770 is the UAE’s highest campground. From here, you have a bird’s-eye view of the Hajar mountain range, date farms and the desert, right across to the Arabian Gulf. At 1,770-m altitude, it’s the perfect base from which to reach Jebel Jais’ summit for sunrise in Ras Al Khaimah. By day, enjoy gentle hiking along ancient shepherd paths, or practice meditation or yoga. By night, enjoy local cuisine, a campfire and captivating storytelling.

Bear Grylls Explorers Camp

For a different type of mountain energy, you could put yourself to the test at Bear Grylls Explorers Camp. Developed by the world-renowned survival expert himself, this camp teaches extreme wilderness survival skills. The family-friendly camp has various course options to suit your experience levels.

Accommodation is in basic but charming cabins in the heart of the wilderness. Everything you need to survive a night on the mountains is provided.

In the Heart of the Desert

The desert also offers a magical place to view sunset or sunrise in Ras Al Khaimah. You are offered a vast, unspoiled view of the sun appearing or disappearing behind golden dunes, Ras Al Khaimah boasts exclusive desert camps and luxurious hideaway hotels.

Enhance your Ras Al Khaimah sunset or sunrise experience by enjoying unrivaled Arabian hospitality and luxurious surroundings.

Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

Ras Al Khaimah’s Ritz-Carlton resort is set within a 1,235-acre private nature reserve. 108 exclusive villas nestle among the dunes, each having access to pools, terraces, restaurant and wellness facilities. The hotel offers guests a unique Arabian experience with its equestrian center, falconry school and desert adventure center.

At sunset, the hotel serves complimentary cocktails. Stay to watch millions of stars fill the sky. Elevated barbecue dinners amid the dunes provide an unforgettably romantic meal.

Sonara Desert Camp Al Wadi

Nara’s Sonara Desert Camp is an intimate restaurant set within the grounds of the Ritz-Carlton resort. You can enjoy high-end dining with the Sunset and Dinner Package. A local, seasonal menu is accompanied by exciting live entertainment, camel rides and kids movies under a blanket of stars.

Bedouin Oasis Camp

Bedouin Oasis Camp offers the perfect location to experience a traditional desert lifestyle and witness a spectacular sunset. Guests can spend the day taking part in a desert safari, quad biking, or traditional Bedouin activities and experiences before relaxing over the Ras Al Khaimah sunset and a barbecue dinner. Stay overnight in luxury glamping-style tents to catch daybreak in the desert.

Dhayah Fort

The only remaining hilltop fort in the UAE, Dhayah Fort, stands proud among lush date farms at 70m above sea level. This fascinating and historic spot offers 360-degree panoramic views of both mountains and coast. As such, it is an excellent place to experience both sunrise and sunset. Just remember to take head torches as the unspoiled beauty of this Bronze Age construction means that paths are uneven.

Sunset from Ras Al Khaimah’s 68 Kilometers of Coastline

You are spoiled for choice when it comes to sunset viewing on Ras Al Khaimah’s coast. There are so many beautiful places to stay or dine on the beach here, all of which offer exquisite views of the sunset over the Arabian Gulf. Here are some of the highlights.

NEO Sky Bar at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island

There are great waterfront views of the Ras Al Khaimah sunset at all dining destinations and hotels on Al Marjan Island, but NEO Sky Bar is the only rooftop bar. Enjoy relaxed sundowners and unobstructed views at this spot at the Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island.

Sunset Bar at The Cove Rotana Resort

The Cove Rotana Resort occupies a very special hillside location overlooking the sea. Its narrow and idyllic streets lead you from your expansive villa retreat down to a tranquil coastline. Its Sunset Bar is the perfect place to be as the sun sets over domed roofs and palm trees.

Longbeach Campground

This fun beachside campground is an alternative to lavish hotel accommodation. It offers glamping tents that provide all you need for a comfortable stay, including outdoor furniture for relaxing at sunset, various dining options and plenty of day and night entertainment. The sunset terrace suite tent offers the very best ocean views at the campground.

Unbeatable Sunrises and Sunsets in Ras Al Khaimah

Sunset and sunrise in Ras Al Khaimah are always a sensational moment. Why not try to experience their magic in the desert, mountains and by the sea? Start planning your adventure in Ras Al Khaimah today.