Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is the northernmost emirate, known for its dramatic Hajar Mountains, desert landscapes, and luxury beach resorts. It's the UAE's adventure capital with Jebel Jais, the country's highest peak.

Altitude: Sea level to 1,934m (Jebel Jais)Best: November to March25.79°N, 55.94°ERas Al Khaimah

History

RAK has a history dating back over 7,000 years. It was a major pearling and trading center. The emirate was a stronghold of the Qawasim tribe and had conflicts with the British in the 19th century. It joined the UAE in 1972 and has since developed as a tourism destination focusing on nature and adventure.

Famous for

Jebel Jais (UAE's highest mountain, 1,934m)Jebel Jais Via Ferrata and zipline (world's longest)Bedouin desert experiencesDhayah Fort (hilltop fort with panoramic views)Al Marjan Island (artificial archipelago)RAK beaches and luxury resortsSuwaidi Pearls Farm (traditional pearl diving)National Museum of Ras Al KhaimahHajar Mountain hikingDesert and wadi safaris

How to reach

By air: Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT). By road: 1 hour from Dubai, 45 minutes from Sharjah.

Nearby attractions

Jebel JaisAl Marjan IslandAl Hamra VillageKhatt Springs (hot springs)Musandam Peninsula (Oman, day trip)Wadi Shawka

Emergency contacts

Police: 999Ambulance: 998

About

Ras Al Khaimah offers a different side of the UAE, focused on nature, adventure, and culture rather than glitz and skyscrapers. Jebel Jais is the centerpiece, with the world's longest zipline (2.8 kilometers) reaching speeds of 120-160 km/h. The Via Ferrata is a thrilling climbing route on the mountain face.

Al Marjan Island is a man-made archipelago with hotels, restaurants, and beaches. Suwaidi Pearls Farm revives the UAE's pearl diving heritage, where visitors can experience traditional pearl harvesting. The National Museum, housed in a former fort, exhibits archaeological finds spanning 7,000 years.

RAK is more relaxed and affordable than Dubai, with beautiful desert landscapes perfect for dune bashing, camel riding, and camping under the stars. The Hajar Mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities with stunning wadis (valleys) and dramatic rock formations.