The emirate’s name ‘Ras Al Khaimah’ means “top of the tent’’, in keeping with its location in the northernmost region of the country. The emirate is one of the rising gems in the UAE, when it comes to tourism. From sun soaked sands to sea shores, oasis and mountains, this emirate is bestowed with breath-taking vistas all around. The mountains of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) are the highest in the country boasting splendid views. RAK also has a pack full of sport activities. What’s more captivating is, you will find white sands close to the RAK Mountains formed by the sandstones, one of the coloured sands, symbolizing the UAE. As we know the seven sands represent a colour code for each emirate, such as Abu Dhabi- light red, Dubai- red, Sharjah- brown, Ajman- cream, Um Al Quwain-blue, Fujairah- black and Ras Al Khaimah already mentioned white in colour. So, don’t you think discovering each emirate’s sand colour would not be less than a magical experience?
The white sandy beaches of RAK exhibits plenty of water sports such as banana boat rides, body-boarding, fly fish, sea wings, scuba diving, sailing, parasailing, wakeboarding and wind surfing. RAK offers plentiful options of your favourite sports.
RAK is also rich in portraying its history dating back to the Bronze Age. This emirate has preserved 18 historic fortifications, castles and towers.
One of the top dates of the UAE is farmed in Ras Al Khaimah which is known to produce at least 18 different types.
Definitely, you cannot afford to miss ‘Al Wahabiyyah’, the oldest art form of RAK. This folkdance gives unique identity to the emirate. The traditional dance usually takes place on special occasions, festive days and wedding.
Not only natural backdrops, but you can also find some recent stunning developments for instance, luxurious beachfront resorts, high end residential areas, Iceland Water Park. Adding to all of it, a stay in any of its beautiful resorts and relishing its bountiful flavourful cuisines, will make your journey complete. The emirate is known for its delicious dishes, as the Emiratis, being seafarers and merchants since ages, brought in their interesting spices and recipes into the seven sands from all over the world. Therefore, an essence of Indian, Egyptian, Iranian and Turkish cuisines can also be found in the local dishes here.
Some Attractions of Ras Al Khaimah
Al Marjan Island
Al Marjan Island is a stunning creation of four islands by man. Well, if you desire an exotic gateway, you must land at the AlMarjanIsland and get mesmerized by its incrediblelocation,which is on the coastline of Ras Al Khiamah. The group of four islands are designedin a coral shaped. The four islands objective is to cater to a larger audience, such as luxurious waterfront abodes, hotels, resorts, sporting facilities, leisure and amusement park.
Landed in a heaven sort of feeling you tend to develop, when you step your feet at the Al Marjan Island, which has a world-class resort development with great hospitality and cultural sensitivity.The majestic Al Marjan Island has got everything, you’re looking for.
Shimal
An archaeological site with some hundred pre-Islamic tombs and a settlement that dates back to 2000-1300 BC, Shimal is a small village that stands close to the Hajar Mountains. Archaeological finds include weapons, pottery, beads and stone vessels made of bronze and copper. But the primary discovery remains a large circular tomb dating back to the Umm al-Nar age. Visit Husn al-Shimal Fort for a spectacular view of the entire area.
Khatt Springs
Hot springs always sound exciting, don’t they? So visit the Khatt springs which is to the west of Ras Al Khaimah’s majestic mountain ranges to have a relaxing and therapeutic experience. It has three natural springs and the area was also popular for the archaeological sites unearthed from various eras.
The oasis town of Khatt is just a 20-minute drive from RAK City. The resort here which looks like a castle is known for its therapeutic pools. You can find private pools and cafes here. Mostly known for the springs’ healing power, the springs attract a lot of Gulf residents and acts as a traditional family getaway or picnic spot.
Archery
How about spending some fun-filled time with the ancient sport of archery, with bow and arrow? Here, you would be playing under the guidance of professional instructors. The Archery Range of Banyan Tree Al Wadi and its tented deck is the perfect location. Trying a hand at archery would definitely be a challenging, yet interesting and different experience. Who knows? You could also be an unwitting master of the sport.
Beach Parties
When music, dance and beaches come in a pack, it becomes the deadliest mishmash of real fun! The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah in winters comes up with such a tantalizing combination with lots of excitement and euphoria of beach parties! Enjoy every bit of arrangements made during these elaborate parties and tap your feet to the beat of the DJs or live performing Bands! Gives you the feel of partying in Ibiza.
Seawings
How do aerial tours sound? If they sound exciting then what are you waiting for? Dive into the Seawings Urban Experience. You can view the whole city when you take off from the shores of Ras Al Khaimah. Glide over the calm and clear blue waters and enjoy a beautiful view of the Hajar Mountains while on your aerial tour of the city.
Falcon Show in Banyan Tree Al Wadi
One of the famous traditions in the region is raising Falcons. Ras Al Khaimah is known for the tradition of raising falcons. It presents a pretty unique falcon show. What is more is you can have a look at the exclusive rapture display at the Banyan Tree Al Wadi desert spa resort which happens to be the first of its kind in the Middle East.
Falconry deck at the Banyan tree would be the place to go for having an exquisite view of the Kestrels, Owls, Falcons, Hawks and Eagles.
Camel Race
Want a taste of the culture and history of Ras al Khaimah? Witness the entertaining Camel Race in the morning as part of your tour in the city.
Especially, catch this sport during the winters, when it is usually held during the weekends at the camel racetrack. If you like you can also visit on weekdays when the racetrack is usually crowded with camel trainers and colourfully clad camels.
Bedouin Oasis Desert Camp
A desert camp essentially, the Bedouin Oasis is all about rediscovering and experiencing the ancient way of living, enjoying the rawness and beauty of nature while also savouring the delectable local cuisine.
Awafi Desert
Visit the Awafi desert for its annual Awafi motor ride festival. This spot is a fun family getaway considering it has children’s play areas along with other attractions such as camel riding, bull fighting, horse racing, desert off road competitions, 4x4 dune bashing, motor cycling shows and of course the heritage village.
RAK Track
At E11 in AlHamra, you’ll find the thrilling RAK Track. Known for its karting complex with a 1.1 kilometer track, RAK Track welcomes children and adults alike for its fun filled experience. In fact this spot is also known for organizing birthday parties to corporate events to even arranging group bookings.
If you’re planning to have a true sense of pure fun, without a second thought, Ras Al Khaimah would be an ideal option for an expedition.