Things To Do
in Ra’s al Khaymah
Ras al Khaimah is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, located in the northern part of the country. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including golden desert dunes and majestic mountains. The emirate also boasts a rich history, with ancient archaeological sites and historic forts to explore.
Ras al Khaimah is a popular destination for outdoor activities and luxury resorts, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation for visitors.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Al Hamra Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Grab a refreshing drink at a beachside café.
Explore the Al Hamra Mall for some shopping and leisure activities. Enjoy lunch at one of the mall's many restaurants.
Watch the sunset while dining at a beachfront restaurant. Take a leisurely walk along the shore to end the day.
Head to Jebel Jais for a morning of outdoor adventure. Try the world's longest zipline for an adrenaline rush.
Enjoy a hike along the various trails available on Jebel Jais, taking in the stunning views. Have a packed lunch amidst the mountains.
Return to Ra's al Khaymah and enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on your adventurous day while stargazing.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful desert landscapes and beaches
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and water sports
- Less crowded than other emirates, providing a more relaxed atmosphere
- Growing tourism infrastructure with resorts and recreational facilities
- Extreme heat during summer months
- Limited public transportation options
- Less nightlife and entertainment compared to larger emirates like Dubai
- Dependence on tourism, which can fluctuate
- Some businesses may have limited operating hours on weekends and holidays
Best Activities in Ra’s al Khaymah
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking, zip-lining, or paragliding in the highest mountain range in the UAE.
Experience horseback riding through the desert dunes and valleys.
Explore this historic fort and enjoy a hike with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Visit this abandoned fishing village for a unique outdoor exploration experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ra’s al Khaymah with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ra’s al Khaymah
Visit one of these nice places.
The highest mountain in the UAE, offering stunning panoramic views and great photo opportunities, especially from the Jebel Jais viewing deck and the Jebel Jais Flight zipline.
A beautiful beach area offering a picturesque setting for sunset views and beach photography.
A man-made island with beautiful beaches and waterfront promenades, providing scenic views and photo opportunities.
Food in Ra’s al Khaymah
Ra’s al Khaymah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Machboos, a popular Emirati dish, consists of rice, meat (often chicken, lamb, or fish), and a mix of spices including saffron, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It is rich in flavors and can be found in local restaurants like Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe.
Must-Try!
Harees is a traditional dish made of wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency. It is a popular dish during Ramadan and can be savored at local eateries such as RAK House, which offers an authentic taste.
Balaleet is a sweet and savory Emirati breakfast dish made of vermicelli noodles, eggs, and sugar, flavored with cardamom. It can be enjoyed at Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe, a renowned spot for authentic Emirati cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ra’s al Khaymah better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
RAK Old Souq presents an array of local street food stalls offering delicacies like falafel, shawarma, and grilled meats. It's a great place to savor authentic Emirati street food and immerse in the local food culture.
This bustling street food market is known for its diverse selection of local and international street food vendors. From traditional Emirati snacks to global culinary delights, this market is a foodie's paradise.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people respectfully in Ra’s al Khaymah, such as using the traditional Arabic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum', and using the right hand for handshakes and eating.
It is important to dress modestly, particularly for women, by avoiding revealing clothing and wearing conservative attire that covers the shoulders, knees, and cleavage.
Respecting local customs and traditions, such as refraining from public displays of affection, handling food with the right hand, and avoiding alcohol consumption in public, is essential in Ra’s al Khaymah.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ra’s al Khaymah with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ra’s al Khaymah
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally appreciated in Ra’s al Khaymah, United Arab Emirates, especially in the service industry. It is common to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, and tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also customary.
In Ra’s al Khaymah, United Arab Emirates, cash is widely used for transactions, but credit and debit cards are also commonly accepted, particularly in larger establishments. Contactless payments and digital wallets are becoming more prevalent, offering convenient alternatives for making payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ra’s al Khaymah.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Ra’s al Khaymah is during the winter season, when the weather is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
While summer in Ra’s al Khaymah can be extremely hot, it is a good time for those who enjoy water activities and beach relaxation, as the sea remains warm and inviting.
Ra’s al Khaymah at Night
Hiking in Ra’s al Khaymah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located on the border between the UAE and Oman, Hafeet Mountain offers stunning views and several hiking trails suited for different skill levels. The climb rewards adventurers with panoramic landscapes.
The highest mountain in the UAE, Jebel Jais features a variety of trails, including scenic views and challenging hikes. The area is known for its cool temperatures and beautiful vistas.
This trail offers a blend of natural beauty and local wildlife, making it a popular choice for both casual and experienced hikers. The trail is well-marked and offers various routes.
Located a short drive from Ras Al Khaimah, Wadi Shawka features a picturesque valley and natural rock formations. Hikers can explore various paths along the water, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Alongside the world's longest zipline, this area offers several hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, catering to different levels of hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ra’s al Khaymah through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ra’s al Khaymah by plane.
The primary international airport serving Dubai, located approximately 116 km from Ra's al Khaymah.
The main international airport serving Abu Dhabi, located about 185 km from Ra's al Khaymah.
An international airport located in Sharjah, approximately 108 km from Ra's al Khaymah.
Located in Dubai World Central, this airport is around 102 km from Ra's al Khaymah.
Located in Bahrain, this airport is about 680 km from Ra's al Khaymah, but it serves as a significant international airport in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Citizens of the United Arab Emirates, representing a significant portion of the population and holding cultural and political influence.
Includes individuals from countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, forming a large demographic segment contributing to the workforce.
Comprising individuals from other Arab countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Ra’s al Khaymah.
Includes individuals from Western countries, mostly working in various professional fields.
Includes individuals from countries such as the Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations.
The Soul of Ra’s al Khaymah
Discover the essence of Ra’s al Khaymah through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ra’s al Khaymah, with many local teams and leagues supporting both youth and adult participation.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Ra’s al Khaymah, with various tournaments and community matches held regularly.
Rugby has been growing in popularity, with clubs and initiatives promoting the sport among youth and adults in the region.
Tennis is widely played in Ra’s al Khaymah, with several courts available and annual competitions attracting players from different areas.
Camel racing is a traditional sport in the Emirate, featuring races that draw crowds and celebrate local heritage.
Motorsports, including dune bashing and off-road racing, are popular in the area, leveraging the surrounding desert terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ra’s al Khaymah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Emirati cuisine predominantly features meat, many restaurants and cafes in Ras Al Khaimah offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options such as falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and diverse salads.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find a range of gluten-free dishes such as grilled meats, rice-based dishes like machboos, and fresh seafood options at various dining establishments.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ra’s al Khaymah with these cultural adventures.
