UAE · City Guide

Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah is the northernmost and most naturally scenic of the UAE's emirates, combining the dramatic Hajar Mountains, excellent adventure sports, beautiful beaches on the Arabian Gulf, outstanding archaeological heritage and a collection of luxury resorts that provide a more tranquil and nature-focused alternative to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. From the Jebel Jais zipline and the historic forts of the emirate to the beautiful Mina Al Arab waterfront, RAK is one of the UAE's most rewarding destinations.

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Explore Ras Al Khaimah
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Abu DhabiDubaiRas Al KhaimahSharjah

Elect's take

"Ras Al Khaimah offers something genuinely different from the rest of the UAE. The mountain scenery is dramatic, the adventure sports are excellent and the luxury resort scene along the coast provides outstanding accommodation in a more relaxed setting than Dubai."

Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest mountain at 1934 metres, provides the setting for the world's longest zipline and outstanding hiking trails through dramatic mountain scenery that feels entirely unlike the coastal UAE. The Hajar Mountains around RAK provide beautiful walking and climbing in a landscape that rewards exploration. The coastline has several excellent luxury resorts with outstanding beaches on the Arabian Gulf. The ancient Dhayah Fort, perched on a rocky outcrop above the emirate, provides spectacular views and fascinating historical heritage from the Qawasim period. The emirate is approximately 90 minutes from Dubai making it an excellent addition to a UAE itinerary.

Best time to visit

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How to get there

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Airports
Ras Al Khaimah (RKT), Dubai (DXB)
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Cruise ports
Port Rashid (Dubai), Mina Rashid Cruise Terminal
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Ras Al Khaimah Airport serves limited direct routes. Dubai Airport approximately 90 minutes south provides the main international gateway.

What to expect

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Jebel Jais Zipline

The world's longest zipline on the UAE's highest mountain with spectacular views.

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Hajar Mountains

Dramatic mountain scenery providing outstanding hiking and climbing close to the coast.

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Arabian Gulf Beaches

Beautiful beaches with excellent luxury resort facilities along the RAK coastline.

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Dhayah Fort

A spectacular hilltop fort with panoramic views over the emirate.

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Mangrove Kayaking

Outstanding kayaking through the mangrove ecosystems around Al Hamra.

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Luxury Resorts

Outstanding beach resort experiences in a quieter and more natural setting than Dubai.


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