Holidays to Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah travel guide

• When is the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah?

  The climate is sub-tropical, semi-arid with warm temperatures, infrequent rainfall and blue skies most of the year. Between November and April the average daytime temperature reaches 28°C, whereas in the summer months between June and August, temperatures rise above 35°C with high humidity.

  Take a look at our climate a chart below.
  

• Things to do in Ras Al Khaimah

  From complete relaxation to adrenalin rushing experiences, Ras Al Khaimah has it all. You’ll be spoilt for choice with the selection of things to do and see.

  Jebel Jais Flight – the world’s longest zipline

  Get ready for heart racing, blood pumping action on the world’s longest zipline from the highest mountain in the UAE, Jebel Jais. Experience the freedom of flying with speeds of up to 150kph and a height of 1680 metres above sea level, expect to zip down to ground in just 3 minutes. Definitely one for the bucket list!

  Bassata Desert Village

  Live the ultimate desert experience with the newly opened Bassata Desert Village! Enjoy a wide range of traditional Arabic activities with dune bashing, belly dancing, Arabic Tanoura, camel riding as well as a live barbecue.

  Ras Al Khaimah Equestrian and Adventures Club

  Located in the middle of a nature reserve, Al Wadi Ras Al Khaimah Equestrian and Adventures Club offers fun rides, riding lessons and Mexican cuisine at Sarab restaurant.

  Iceland Waterpark

  Escaping from the heat, Iceland Water Park offers thrilling amusement to visitors of all ages. With a wide variety of games, water slides and an extensive food court, Iceland is all about having a fun time!

  Falcon Show in Banyan Tree Al Wadi

  One of the most famous traditions in the region is raising Falcons. Ras Al Khaimah presents a unique falcon show with an exclusive rapture display in the first desert spa resort of the Middle East - the Banyan Tree Al Wadi.

  RAK Heritage: Mohammed Bin Salim Mosque

  Mohammed Bin Salim Mosque is the largest surviving traditional mosque in the UAE, and is still in use in Ras Al Khaimah Old Town.

  Khatt Springs

  Located to the west of Ras Al Khaimah between majestic mountain ranges, this oasis is famed for its hot springs of sulphuric water with its relaxing and therapeutic properties. The Khatt Springs consists of three warm natural springs which are widely considered to have medicinal and curative properties.

  Al Qawassim Corniche

  The corniche spreads over an area of 41,000 square feet, has café shops and restaurants housed in historic fort tower-like buildings. Set amidst meandering walkways and landscaped gardens complete with water fountains and running streams.
  It offers spectacular views of the Ras Al Khaimah Creek, the mangroves and the mountains beyond and provides an array of leisure options for tourists and families. Facilities include outdoor dining, yacht trips through the creek, water sports, rides on horse-drawn carriages and sightseeing tours on-board double-decker buses.

  Awafi Desert

  Awafi desert is well known for the Awafi Motor Ride Festival that is held annually. There are kids play areas, bull fighting, camel riding, football tournaments, horse racing, 4x4 dune bashing, desert off road competitions, motor cycling shows and a heritage village.

  Marjan Island

  In a location that can only be described as breath-taking, Al Marjan Island is set on the coastline of Ras Al Khaimah in the shimmering Arabian Gulf. There’s never been anything quite like it: a collection of four manmade islands that will become home to luxurious waterfront homes, hotels, resorts, sporting facilities, recreational and amusement park and leading international retail brands.

• Top 5 places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah

  Bassata Desert Village

  Live the ultimate desert experience at Bassata Desert Village. Enjoy a wide range of traditional Arabic activities with dune bashing, belly dancers, Arabic Tanoura, camel riding and barbecue.

  Iceland Waterpark

  Escaping from the heat, Iceland Water Park is a thrilling amusement for visitors of all ages. With a wide variety of games, water slides and an extensive food court, Iceland is all about having fun.

  Falcon Show at Al Wadi Equestrian and Adventure Centre

  One of the most famous traditions in the region is raising Falcons. Witness the beauty of these magnificent birds at the most authentic setting in the country - as the falcons take to the sky you'll be the spectator to the experience of a lifetime!

  Jebel Jais Flight

  Are you brave enough to conquer the highest mountain in the UAE? Get your adrenaline pumping on the world's longest zipline.

  Dhayah Fort

  Experience the rich heritage of Ras Al Khaimah, this majestic fort built in the 16th century on a mountain overlooking the Gulf to fight the British troops tells a story of its own.

• Is Ras Al Khaimah good for shopping?

  If a spot of retail therapy is up your street, shopping in Ras Al Khaimah will not disappoint. Stroll the traditional souks for local delights including one-of-a-kind textiles and souvenirs. Sample the fresh produce and haggle in the markets. Or visit one of the five shopping malls, Manar Mall, Al Naeem City Center, RAK Mall, Al Naeem Mall and Al Hamra Mall, featuring all the brands you know and love.

• What is the cuisine in Ras Al Khaimah?

  Fresh seafood is a staple part of Ras Al Khaimah cuisine, along with meat dishes (liberally!) seasoned with local spices like tumeric and cinnamon.
  
  From traditional cuisine to fine dining, whatever your taste, you will find it in Ras Al Khaimah. Enjoy a sumptuous meal in a five star hotel, or a relaxed lunch at the Corniche. If you are looking for a true Arabian experience then visiting an Arabic café is a must. Sample the local cuisine and try a sheesha - a flavoured tobacco smoked through a pipe.

• Ras Al Khaimah lifestyle & culture

  Dos & Don’ts

  Whilst 80% of the population of the United Arab Emirates is made up of non-UAE nationals, you must remember that this is a Muslim country and local traditions and customs should be respected.

  Dress Code

  People in Ras Al Khaimah are modern and liberal. There are no rules or regulations on the dress code to be followed by tourists. However, modest and ethical dressing is expected from guests as a matter of respect to the local citizens and their culture. Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering public places.

• Is alcohol legal in Ras Al Khaimah?

  Yes, alcohol is legal in Ras Al Khaimah - in selected areas. Alcohol is mainly sold in hotel bars or hotel restaurants, golf clubs or within other tourist areas. Public restaurants don’t serve any alcohol.
  You must be 21 or older to drink in Ras Al Khaimah, and drunkenness in public is not tolerated - so if you're planning a few drinks, it's best to stick to your hotel.