Things to Do in Ras Al Khaimah
With breathtaking views of the Hajar Mountains and the surrounding Arabian Gulf, ziplining is a thrilling way to experience the beauty of the United Arab Emirates. The Jebel Jais Flight is the world's longest zipline, stretching over 2.8 km, and gives riders an adrenaline rush like no other. You need to first reach the Jebel Jais Flight Deck Park where you will receive a safety briefing about your flight. With speeds reaching up to 160 kmph, this is an activity for the thrill-seekers who are looking for an unforgettable adventure.
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Going on a desert safari is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Ras al Khaimah. Choose from the three options of morning, afternoon and evening safari according to your own preference and embark on an unforgettable desert experience. You can also opt for camping amidst the sands and get an undaunted essence of the rich culture of UAE.
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Ras al Khaimah’s coastline stretches up to 64 km and is home to some of the best beaches in the UAE. The primary public beach in the city is Flamingo Beach, also referred to as RAK Beach. Marjan Island, Al Rams Beach, Al Hamra Beach, are some of the other appealing ones having the most luxurious resorts and spas to provide you with an extravagant beach experience. The beaches also offer a number of adventure watersports such as kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, kayaking.
The Ras al Khaimah National Museum, which was the former residence of the ruling family until the early 1960s, houses an excellent exhibit of artifacts, manuscripts and documents narrating stories about the local history. You can take a tour of the ethnographic section which throws light on the traditional Emirati practices of fishing, dates and pearl cultivation. You will also come across the weapons used by the royal family and archaeological collections dating back to the late Islamic Period.
This defensive military tower built on a hilltop is situated about 20 km from the city center. One of the best things to do in Ras al Khaimah is spending an afternoon hiking up to its top to have the mesmerizing views of the other forts and ruins on the surrounding hills.
The Hajar Mountains offer a wealth of outdoor activities for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. You can do mountain biking, canoeing and rock climbing with the breathtaking views of the rugged mountains. You can walk along its unraveled trails and discover the cascading waterfalls and deep ravines. The mountains also have crystal clear pools where you can take a relaxing dip to beat the scorching heat.
The hot springs of Khatt are rich in minerals and known for its therapeutic and healing properties. Taking a relaxing bath in the hot pools is a must in your to-do list in Ras al Khaimah. You can also visit the restored Khatt Tomb nearby and learn about its archaeological significance. The village of Khatt is set amidst an oasis and surrounded by robust mountains making it one of the most picturesque attractions around the city.
This secluded village, located near the Hajar Mountains has a number of tombs and settlements from the pre–islamic period. If you are a history buff and passionate about ancient civilisations, your visit to this place will surely be worth it. With several archaeological ruins such as weapons, stone vessels and pottery uncovered, Shimal holds several stories to narrate about the prehistoric times.
Explore the abandoned fishing village of Jazirat al-Hamra and get enlightened in the ancestral Emirati way of life. The village has a number of historic buildings and ancient forts that provide a glimpse into the region's past. You can take guided tours of the village, desert safaris, camel rides, and sandboarding besides enjoying water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding in the nearby lagoon. The village is an excellent location for photography enthusiasts to capture the beauty of coral-block architecture.
Take a tour of the Ras Al Khaimah Pearl Museum, situated 12 km north of the city to learn about the history and practices of Suwaidi pearl farming. The Museum also has a number of guided tours and programmes for the tourists to get an insight into their rich culture and heritage. You can also try your luck with the pearl by husking your own oyster shell , an activity that makes it one of the top things to do while in Ras al Khaimah.
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Wadi Shawka offers an exciting range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. You can explore the beautiful natural surroundings by hiking or mountain biking along its rugged trails. The wadi also offers opportunities for rock climbing, bouldering, and rappelling. For those seeking a more relaxing experience, there are swimming holes and picnic areas nestled amongst the stunning landscape. Additionally, you can go on guided tours to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area making it more fun and interesting.
One of the best things to do in Ras al Khaimah is having a fun-filled day out at UAE’s first ice-themed park. You will come across a variety of water slides and other rides suitable for all age groups and have quality time with your family and friends. You can also relax in the cabanas while munching on some delicious snacks from the food court.
FAQ's
What is the best time to visit Ras al Khaimah?
The best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah is during the winter months between November and March. The temperatures are mild and pleasant, offering perfect weather conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and sightseeing.
How to Reach Ras al Khaimah?
Ras Al Khaimah is easily accessible by air, road, and sea. The Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT) is well connected to major cities in the Middle East and Europe. Visitors can also travel to Ras Al Khaimah by road from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other neighboring cities. The emirate is connected by highways and offers taxi and car rental services. Ras Al Khaimah also has a seaport that serves as a gateway for cargo and passenger ships.
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What are the best things to do in Ras al Khaimah?
Ras al Khaimah offers a wide range of activities for its visitors of all age groups. From hiking up to the Jebel Jais mountains, exploring the historic sites, relaxing on the beaches, and going desert safari and dune bashing, you will have the most memorable and thrilling vacation in the city.
What is the currency used in Ras al Khaimah?
The currency used in Ras Al Khaimah is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED).
Which language is spoken in Ras al Khaimah?
The official language of Ras Al Khaimah is Arabic, but English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism industry.
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