Things to do in Ras Al Khaimah

The Jebel Jais Flight, at nearly 3 kilometres long, is one of the most exhilarating experiences you’ll ever come across. You’ll travel at incredible speeds of up to 150kph, with spectacular views all around you of the Ras Al Khaimah area. Jebel Jais is the highest peak in the UAE and aside from the Jebel Jais Flight, you can try out a few of the other smaller but no less exciting ziplines across a 3-mile course. Learn more about this incredible experience with our guide to thrill-seeking activities in Ras Al Khaimah.

Take a short drive to the north and you’ll find the mountains that provide awe-inspiring views of Ras Al Khaimah, the Omani exclave of Musandam and the Strait of Hormuz. 

Be daring and embark on one of the 11 marked trails across the Hajar Mountains that vary in length and difficulty, with some taking 90 minutes and others taking up to 18 hours.

While it would be easy to stick to the coastline, the golden dunes of Ras Al Khaimah’s desert are well-worth exploring. Experience what it’s like to ride a camel across these dunes and then sit down for a traditional Arabic meal in a Bedouin tent. You can even sleep underneath the stars and appreciate the beauty of this area.

No matter where you choose to stay, you are likely to be just steps from a well-maintained private beach where you can soak up the year-round sunshine – take a look at our guide to the best beaches in Ras Al Khaimah here. 

Expect powder-soft sands, sun loungers and shades and food and drink facilities – many resorts will offer beach waiter service meaning you don’t even have to leave the sands while getting in your R&R. 

The Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort, for example, sprawls out onto golden sands and clear blue waters that guests can enjoy – as well as boasting two swimming pools plus an outdoor hot tub! The Rixos Bab Al Bahr also features a private beach, ideal for snorkellers and families.

Near Ras Al Khaimah, you’ll find the impressive Dhayah Fort. Sitting on the site of much older foundations, this natural defensive outpost – the last remaining hilltop fort in the UAE – was fortified in the 19th century. Across the centuries this fort has seen battles and skirmishes between the emirate and British armies and is now a place filled with history and intrigue. Climb the ramparts to take in the panoramic views of the city and sea beyond, and surrounding mountains and date farms. 

Back in the city, the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah provides a detailed insight into the Emirate’s past. Once a fortified complex it then became the home of the ruling Al Qasimi family before being turned into a museum. 

Today, multiple galleries showcase collections, archaeological finds and culturally significant objects from the Bedouin, Shihuh and Habus tribes of the desert and mountains. Discover traditional weaponry, once used by the ruling family of Ras Al Khaimah and seek out the Qawasim room where you can view documents and treaties written up by the city’s former rulers. 

Located 30 minutes outside the city, nestled in the mountains and surrounded by palm orchards, Khatt Spring boasts natural mineral hot pools that you can soak in after a busy few days of exploring. There are three pools to choose from, with temperatures reaching 40°C – it’s like having a lovely bath outside in the open. 

Said to have health-enhancing properties that ease aches and pains and help clear skin problems due to the minerals in the thermal waters, the hot pools have become popular with tourists and locals alike.

Visit the Nakheel Old Souk, which offers a huge range of traditional shops where you can buy everything from fine textiles to ready-made clothes. 

In the Old Market Area is the Fish Market, where you can buy fresh seafood, and there are multiple restaurants nearby taking advantage of the day’s catch. You can also pick up freshly baked flatbread and homemade sweets and baklava.

Foodies should head over to Marjan for the finest Lebanese cuisine or go south to The Cove Rotana Resort, where you can dine on Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Basilico. If you want to sample a variety of cuisines in one meal, try Emirates Sea Restaurant. You can even stroll along the Corniche for a pleasant walk with family and then pick a café to enjoy a coffee.

Well known for its incredible pearls, Ras Al Khaimah has a long history in pearl farming dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Embark on a journey of discovery, visiting the eerie and abandoned ghost town of Al Jazirah Al Hamra which was once a flourishing pearl fishing village. 

Wander through the streets lined with coral-stone houses and be sure to stop by the mosque that still stands, which is reported to be haunted! The entire village is effectively an open air museum and is free to explore at your own pace. 

Afterwards, you can head to the Suwaidi Pearls Farm to see how modern pearls are cultivated, and explore the heritage of this ancient profession.

Whether you are after warm weather, stunning scenery or classic Arabian culture, the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has it all. 

Golden-sand beaches, ancient forts, thrilling activities and a history steeped in tradition ensure your visit is one you won’t forget. Book your holiday to Ras Al Khaimah today by visiting our dedicated holiday page or speaking to one of our travel experts.