Ras Al Khaimah Holidays

The Capital of Ras Al Khaimah - Old and New

The capital itself, Ras al Khaimah City, is divided into two sections by a natural creek, against the backdrop of spectacular mountains and the sparkling expanse of the Arabian Gulf. A bridge connects the old city, with its old-world souqs and historic buildings, with the glamorous malls and vibrant shopping areas of Al Nakheel to the newer section. Along the edge of the creek, overlooked by the pearl-white multi-domed Sheikh Zayed Mosque, runs the Al Qawassim Corniche, where you can stroll, marvel at the stunning views, and enjoy exquisite food at the variety of smart restaurants.

The National Ras Al Khaimah Museum sits in the west of the old city. This is where you can gain an insight into the many different people who have called this area home, including mountain tribes, date farmers and desert communities. Behind ornately carved wooden doors lies a treasure house of exhibits, including terracotta urns and intricately carved soft-stone vessels from the Iron Age. Not too far from here is the UAE’s only pearl farm (Suwaidi Pearl Farm). A wonderful place to visit to get a glimpse into the pearling industry by pearl diving and oyster opening.

Closer to the capital is the stunning Jazirat al Hamra, an abandoned village that was inhabited by fisher folk and pearl divers up until the 1960s. Its beautiful coral block architecture has been perfectly preserved by the dry desert climate, giving a unique insight into the daily lives of local people before the oil boom. Named the Red Island, after the red-hued sand on which it was built, the village is rife with spine-chilling tales of hauntings by powerful djinn or ghosts, which some believe is the real reason why the inhabitants left.

The Ancient Heritage

With a rich history dating back to the bronze age over 7,00 years ago, those visiting Ras al Khaimah can enjoy the ancient history RAK has to offer. The prehistoric Shimal, one of the oldest settlements not just in RAK but in the entire region, has tombs dating back to 2600 BC. Many of these are monumental in size, and the remains of a complete village from the second millennium BC. A short distance away is the impressive site known as the Palace of the Queen Of Sheeba, where tradition holds that King Solomon's legendary consort stayed in the 10th century BC.

The Mountains

Home to the highest peak in the UAE (Jebel Jais) Ras Al Khaimah is bursting with opportunity for adventure. All ages can take part in hiking and mountain biking routes. Don’t forget to visit the Jais adventure park where you can go on the world’s longest zipline, view the incredible scenery from Jais viewing deck, or grab a drink and a bite to eat in the rooftop lounge. There’s even the world’s first Bear Grylls Explorer camp. Come face-to-face with some of the toughest terrains and learn extreme survival techniques, with the choice to stay in one of the sixteen sustainable and recycled cabins.

Adventure in Ras Al Khaimah

The possibilities for adventure on a Ras Al Khaimah holiday are endless. You can immerse yourself in Bedouin culture during an overnight stay at the Bedouin Oasis Desert Camp. Start by feasting your eyes on the spectacular sunsets across the vast expanses of sand. When night falls you are surrounded by fire dancers and a banquet of freshly cooked local cuisine.

There are plenty of exciting activities, including dune bashing in a 4x4 or how about sandboarding? For families, there’s the Ice Land Water Park, complete with model penguins, fake glaciers, and plenty of rides and slides, while the Flyfish Water sports Club, is the venue for a wide selection of water sports, including kayaking, jet skiing, and kite surfing. One really unique activity is the microlight boat trip, where you take off from the sea, explore the coastline from the air, and cruise back to land on the surface of the waves -- the perfect sunrise or sunset experience.

Fancy staying out on the beach? At Banan beach on Al Marjan Island, you can glamp in tepee tents located around a firepit, or lounge in a private chalet. Filled with family attractions and BBQ areas and even a Guinness World Record-setting New Year’s Eve firework display, this is a great spot for a family getaway.

Musandam Peninsula

Ras al Khaimah holidays also offer a gateway to the magnificent Musandam Peninsula, a separate enclave of Oman projecting into the Strait of Hormuz to the east of RAK. Its jagged coastline features massive fjord-like inlets called khors, studded with tiny villages that are only accessible by boat. You can take dhow cruises around the khors, through waters that are home to rich marine life, including dolphin families that swim alongside the boats.

Ready to book your Ras Al Khaimah Holiday?

The year-round sunshine means that Ras al Khaimah is delightful for a holiday at any time of year, although during the British summer months it may be too hot for some, with temperatures of around 36° so please bear this in mind when planning your trip.

The simplest way to get there is to fly into Dubai's modern international airport and take a local flight to RAK, or it's an easy hour's drive by road. This country's beauty, its unique ambiance and its friendly welcome make it a year-round destination like no other in the world. Enquire today to get a quote on your next luxury holiday to Ras Al Khaimah.