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Things to Do in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
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Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Looking for the best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates? Start with Jebel Jais, the country's highest peak at 1,934 meters above sea level, where a spectacular scenic road leads to the world's longest zipline. Then explore the restored Dhayah Fort, the last stronghold of Emirati resistance in 1819, perched on a hill offering stunning views of the surrounding palm groves.
1. Jebel Jais
Climb to the roof of the Emirates for breathtaking panoramas. Thrills guaranteed on the longest zipline in the world, wild hikes, or simple contemplation at the summit.
Quick facts: At 1,934 meters above sea level, it is the highest peak in the United Arab Emirates. Jebel Jais is home to the world's longest zipline, the Jais Flight, which stretches 2.83 kilometers.
Highlights: On clear days, the summit offers a 360-degree panorama that extends to the Sea of Oman and even to the Iranian coasts in good weather. The roads winding up to the summit are among the most spectacular in the Middle East, with hairpin turns offering dizzying views at every bend.
2. Al Marjan Island
Imagine a sunset on a private beach, your feet in the sand and a cocktail in hand. Here, you alternate between swimming in turquoise waters and gourmet seaside strolls.
Quick facts: Stretching 2.7 kilometers into the Persian Gulf, this artificial archipelago is home to four distinctly shaped islands. More than 7 million tons of rock and sand were needed to create this residential and hotel complex.
Highlights: Walking along the beach at sunset, you can see the snow-capped peaks of Jebel Jais on the horizon, a striking contrast between the warm sand and the distant mountains. The calm waters of the inner lagoon are ideal for paddleboarding early in the morning, before the sea breeze picks up.
3. Ras Al Khaimah National Museum
Enter an 18th-century fort that towers over the city. You will wander from room to room among archaeological treasures, ancestral weapons, and stories of the sheikhs' lives.
Quick facts: Perched on a hill overlooking the old town, this 18th-century fort once served as the residence of the ruling Al Qasimi family. Its towers now house a fascinating collection of archaeological artifacts, traditional weapons, and rare manuscripts that tell centuries of history.
Highlights: In a small vaulted room, you will discover an 800-year-old brass pearl, the largest ever found in the region, with an impressive diameter of 6.5 centimeters. The thick walls of the fort maintain a surprising coolness even when the thermometer approaches 45°C outside.
4. Dhayah Fort
From its 53-meter height, the 360-degree view embraces both the Hajar Mountains and the Persian Gulf. Climb the steep steps and discover period cannons placed on the restored ramparts.
Quick facts: Perched on a limestone hill, this 16th-century fort was the last bastion of resistance against the British in 1819. Only 53 meters in height separate its mud-brick walls from the sea, offering a striking contrast between the ochre desert and the turquoise waters of the gulf.
Highlights: During the British attack of 1819, nearly 400 local fighters and their families took refuge there for three days, resisting with only rudimentary cannons. Today, while climbing the 238 steps carved into the rock, you can still see the impact marks of cannonballs embedded in the old coral and lime walls.
5. Bear Grylls Explorers Camp
Test your limits in the only mountain survival camp designed by a legendary adventurer. Nights suspended over the void, a dizzying zipline, and survival workshops await you at 1,200 meters altitude.
Quick facts: Accessible only by cable car, the camp sits at over 1,200 meters above sea level in the Jebel Jais mountains. Every year, more than 50,000 adventurers take on its challenges inspired by the survival techniques of the British explorer.
Highlights: You sleep suspended in glass pods attached to the cliffside, with a 300-meter drop beneath you. Waking up offers a rare sight: the first rays of sunlight setting the Hajar peaks ablaze before the rest of the world awakens.
6. Khatt Springs
Dive into a natural hot spring in the middle of the desert for a unique relaxation experience. You will float in 40°C water while the setting sun ignites the surrounding red mountains.
Quick facts: Its thermal waters have been gushing at 40°C continuously for centuries, rich in sulfur minerals known for soothing rheumatism. Local Bedouins already came to bathe here long before the first modern facilities were built.
Highlights: Unlike sterile spas, the hot water cascades here directly from the rock into an outdoor pool where you can swim under the stars. The contrast between the dry desert air and the steam rising from the water creates an almost surreal atmosphere, especially at sunset.
7. Ice Land Water Park
Glide through a living aviary and brush past stingrays during a dizzying descent unique in the world. Thrills guaranteed in this aquatic paradise reminiscent of a palace from One Thousand and One Nights.
Quick facts: With its water slides that pass through an aviary housing hundreds of exotic birds, this water park offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Summer temperatures exceeding 45°C require the park to fully recycle its water every two hours to guarantee perfect freshness.
Highlights: The park is home to the longest water slide in the Middle East, a 238-meter descent that propels you through a transparent tunnel immersed in a pool filled with stingrays. You literally glide above these graceful creatures before plunging into a giant wave pool that simulates waves up to 2 meters high.
8. Pearl Museum
A fascinating journey into the thousand-year history of the pearl, long before oil. Touch, observe, and learn the secrets of these marine treasures in an intimate and modern setting.
Quick facts: The museum houses the largest collection of natural pearls in the world, with over 300,000 specimens. Each pearl tells a unique story, some having been recovered from the Persian Gulf over 7,000 years ago.
Highlights: Imagine a room where 10,000 luminescent pearls float in the darkness, creating an underwater starry sky. The curators show you how to distinguish a real pearl from an imitation by gently rubbing it against your teeth, a test that surprises all visitors.
Where to Stay in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
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Traditional Sweet Dishes
Luqaimat
Luqaimat are deep fried dough balls drizzled with date molasses or honey. They are especially popular during Ramadan and are often served with Arabic coffee.
Bathaith
Bathaith are sweet date-based cookies made with a blend of flour, butter, and cardamom. They are a traditional Emirati dessert commonly enjoyed with afternoon tea.
Esh Asaraya
Esh Asaraya is a rich cheesecake-like dessert made with sweet cream cheese layered over a soft bread base and topped with pistachios or rose syrup. It is a beloved indulgence in Emirati celebrations.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Machboos
Machboos is the national dish of the UAE, a fragrant spiced rice dish typically made with chicken, lamb, or fish. It is seasoned with loomi (dried lime), saffron, and a special blend of Emirati spices.
Harees
Harees is a slow-cooked porridge of wheat and meat, traditionally prepared during Ramadan and festive occasions. Its smooth, comforting texture has made it a staple of Emirati hospitality for centuries.
Thareed
Thareed is a hearty stew of meat and vegetables layered with thin pieces of flatbread. It is often described as the Emirati version of a bread-based soup and is a favorite during colder months and family gatherings.
Traditional Beverages
Arabic Coffee (Gahwa)
Arabic coffee is lightly roasted and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and rose water. It is a symbol of generosity in Ras Al Khaimah and is traditionally served to guests from a special coffee pot called a dallah.
Karak Chai
Karak Chai is a strong, sweet milk tea infused with cardamom, ginger, and sometimes saffron. This spiced tea is a beloved everyday drink across the UAE, often sold from small roadside cafés.
Jallab
Jallab is a sweet, refreshing drink made from dates, grape molasses, and rose water, typically served over ice with pine nuts and raisins. It is especially popular during Ramadan as a revitalizing treat to break the fast.
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Most popular day trips
Dubai
Visit the world-class shopping, skyline, and cultural attractions of this iconic city.
Fujairah
Explore the eastern coast with beautiful beaches and the Al Bithnah Fort.
Hatta
A mountainous enclave known for hiking, kayaking, and the Hatta Heritage Village.
Musandam Peninsula (Oman)
Stunning fjords and dramatic cliffs with dhow cruises and snorkeling.
Al Ain
The Garden City of the UAE with oases, forts, and Jebel Hafeet mountain.
Rent a car in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Getting there
Train stations
Intercity buses to Dubai, Sharjah, and other Emirates
From Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, taxis and rental cars are available. Buses from Dubai to RAK run regularly and take about 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Comments (8)
If you rent a car, the drive from Dubai is under an hour. Way cheaper than taxis and gives you freedom to explore.
The mountains and the ocean both in one day. Did the Jebel Jais zipline, totally worth the drive up.
Check the tide pools near the beach at low tide early morning. Tons of cool marine life and barely anyone around.
Skip the tourist restaurants on Al Marjan Island. Walk into the old souk area for authentic food at half the price.
Food scene is decent but not huge. Found a great little Pakistani spot near the creek for cheap eats.