Just over an hour from the cosmopolitan city of Dubai lies the nature emirate of the UAE: Ras Al Khaimah. This sun-drenched destination brings the same sophistication and excitement as its neighbouring cities, yet swaps the crowds and congestion for spectacular desert and ocean vistas.
Renowned for its illustrious past rooted in pearl farming, Ras Al Khaimah stands as a captivating emirate, seamlessly blending its rich cultural heritage with exhilarating modern attractions. Soar through the sky on the world’s longest zipline, uncover the art of pearl farming and its origins, or explore ancient forts steeped in history. Feel the thrill as majestic falcons take flight against the backdrop of desert sunsets, and indulge your senses with traditional Arabian delights - from sweet dates to aromatic teas.
Stretching from the glistening Arabian Gulf to vast desert landscapes, it’s clear to see why this destination stands as one of our favourite holiday hotspots. Adorned with an array of luxury resorts, from beachfront hideaways to desert retreats, a stay here promises a unique set of experiences and luxury amenities.
In March 2024, members of the Best At Travel team had the privilege of visiting some of these exquisite resorts in person. From serene Maldivian-inspired over-water villas, to authentic desert accommodations nestled within a sprawling wildlife sanctuary - check out some of our team members’ favourite Ras Al Khaimah resorts.
DoubleTree By Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island
From the moment you arrive at this 5-star resort, it’s clear that it is perfect for couples and families alike. At the heart of this retreat, lies a floating sea pool next to a 650m stretch of private beach, providing the perfect setting for you to unwind and soak up the sun’s rays. For those seeking further relaxation, an oasis awaits on the 9th floor at the Jouri Rose Spa - home to rejuvenating treatments.
For those seeking something a little more fast-paced, there are plenty of family-favourite amenities to suit all ages, from thrilling water sports to paddle tennis and more. The little ones will be stuck for choice, with an on-site Pirate Boat Aqua Zone, a dedicated swimming pool and engaging children’s clubs and activities.
From all-day dining options to a rooftop bar, make the most of 13 drink and dining outlets offering a range of culinary experiences. After a day of indulging, relax and unwind in tastefully-appointed rooms or suites, each featuring a private balcony or terrace to soak up the stunning vistas as the sun sets over the Arabian Gulf.
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
Step into a world of refined luxury at the newly renovated resort, where you are greeted by grand hallways, sweeping arches and delicate marble finishes. Nestled peacefully along a 350m expanse of exclusive beachfront, this lavish retreat offers 319 luxurious accommodations, ranging from sumptuous sea-view rooms to palatial suites fit for royalty.
As you enter this 5-star resort you are instantly greeted with the hallmark hospitality and timeless elegance that defines the Waldorf Astoria experience. The grandeur of the lobby alone - with its soaring ceilings and exquisite décor, sets the tone for a stay that is nothing short of extraordinary.
Each space is thoughtfully and meticulously crafted, with relaxing tones of turquoise, sand and ivory, inspired by the resort’s beachfront surroundings - that you can admire from your private balcony or terrace. Beyond the comfort of your accommodations, indulge in world-class amenities, from a sprawling infinity pool to the luxurious spa. Foodies will love it here too, with 6 iconic restaurants and bars. Indulge in Italian cuisine by Chef Carmine Faravalo or opt for Asian home-style cooking with authentic spices at the Umi restaurant.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
Prepare for a getaway like no other at The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Ras Al Khaimah. Combining the signature Ritz-Carlton charm with the breathtaking desert landscape, this resort invites you to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the 1,235 acre Al Wadi Nature Reserve, where indigenous flora and fauna flourish amid the rolling dunes. Choose from opulent villas or tented pool villas, each offering a blend of modern comfort and authentic desert charm. Relax by the pool under the desert sun, or opt for further rejuvenation at The Ritz-Carlton spa, where traditional Arabian rituals and treatments infused with natural ingredients await.
With the dazzling desert as a backdrop, resort bars and restaurants offer sensational cuisine, comprising the finest ingredients and homegrown vegetables. Opt for farm-to-table dining at an on-site steakhouse, indulge in a culinary journey of Arabic and Andalusian cuisine at Moorish or opt to dine under the stars at desert barbecues.
Perhaps the best part of this resort is the array of once-in-a-lifetime experiences awaiting just outside your doorstep. Embark on a desert trek on camel or horseback, try your hand at private archery lessons, or spend an evening stargazing under the night sky. With its unwavering commitment to sustainability and unmatched natural beauty, this resort is certainly one to add to the must-visit list!
The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach Resort
Escape to a sanctuary nestled on the shores of Ras Al Khaimah, a hideaway so secluded that your journey here begins with a shuttle boat service across turquoise shores to the resort itself. Enter the realm of The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach, where luxury seamlessly meets tranquillity for the perfect relaxing getaway. Here, just 32 exclusive private villas await, each boasting secluded pools and direct beachfront access, adorned with ivory tones and wooden accents inspired by the stunning natural surroundings.
With direct beachfront access, sun-drenched days of uninterrupted relaxation await. For further unwinding, opt for a day at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, where private waterside pavilions set the stage for rejuvenating treatments infused with natural, locally-sourced ingredients. Fancy something more upbeat? Visit the 24 hour fitness centre, or have a go at an array of water-based activities including paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing and more. Adjacent to the resort, tee off at the Al Hamra Golf Club, offering 18 holes of PGA Sanctioned beachfront play, while the Ritz Kids ® ️ program ensures the littles ones are entertained while you unwind.
At The Shore House, sophisticated maritime ambiance meets delectable grilled dishes featuring locally caught fish. Or indulge in hand-crafted cocktails paired with breathtaking views at the Beach Deck. You can even opt for destination dining, from seafront grills to private villa dining.
Stuck for choice? Check out our Ritz-Carlton Multicentre here
Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort
Step into a serene oasis at the all-new Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah resort. Nestled on a private peninsula and surrounded by mangroves and picture-perfect ocean vistas, enjoy a stay at this brand new jewel to the Anantara collection. Boasting 174 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, as well as Maldivian-inspired overwater villas, indulge in eco-friendly sophistication in tastefully-appointed accommodations.
Further relaxation is brought to you by the Anantara Spa, designed to rejuvenate your senses. Here, traditional Thai healing rituals and personalised treatments await, as well as couples suites, a whirlpool and more. For the adventurous holidayers, there's no shortage of thrills, from a padel court to cutting-edge fitness facilities and exhilarating water sports including kayaking through the surrounding mangroves.
Delight in global cuisine seasons with herbs straight from the chef’s garden, with delectable drink and dining experiences across several outlets. Journey through the orient at the Mekong a la carte restaurant, indulge in shisha and traditional Arabian cuisine or opt in poolside dining at Jalabar.
With its steadfast commitment to sustainability initiatives, top-class amenities, and unparalleled service as standard, prepare for an Arabian escape like no other at this brand-new resort.
Rixos Bab Al Bahr
Home to the only All-Inclusive concept in Ras Al Khaimah, Rixos Bab Al Bahr blends beachfront bliss with an impressive array of top-class amenities and activities. The impressive pyramid-style resort lies nestled at the base of Marjan Island and boasts 715 tastefully-appointed guestrooms, a pristine stretch of private beach as well as 8 sprawling swimming pools - perfect for hours of sun-drenched relaxation. For even more relaxation, you can opt to visit the Avitane spa - the largest in Ras Al Khaimah, for tailored treatments designed to soothe the mind, body and soul.
Those seeking something more active are not short of options at this 5-star resort, with motorised water sports including jet skiing, parasailing and more as well as a range of sporting activities from tennis, beach volleyball, basketball and more! There is also the iconic Rixy Kids club to keep the little ones entertained while you relax.
Want to see more? Check out all of our Ras Al Khaimah getaways here