Gliding across the calm, turquoise waters through the mangroves of Al Rams, I gaze at the towering Hajar mountains in front of me. The wooden boat I’m travelling in is transporting me to a remote pontoon, home to the world’s first Arabian pearl farm. In waters filled with flamingoes and turtles, a small team of Emiratis is reviving the ancient trade, cultivating exquisite pearls with modern-day pearling techniques. This picturesque scene highlights the lesser-known side of the United Arab Emirates, away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai.
Mountain ranges and ancient pearling traditions might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of the United Arab Emirates, with Dubai’s famous skyscrapers and luxurious resorts tending to take centre stage. But I’m in Ras Al Khaimah (also known as RAK), one of the UAE’s ‘other’ emirates. Just over an hour’s drive from the heart of Dubai, RAK has evolved into a captivating escape for those seeking a genuinely authentic UAE experience.
Traditionally known as a significant trade centre, Ras Al Khaimah has become increasingly popular in recent years. It offers not only luxurious accommodations but also tranquil beaches, a wealth of cultural heritage sites, and nature-centric experiences that provide a perfect getaway from the bustling city life of Dubai. With 1.22 million visitors in 2023, this hidden gem is quickly gaining recognition, making now the ideal time to discover all it has to offer!
What to do in Ras Al Khaimah
Adventurous souls and laid-back beach bums can find plenty of things to do that suit all budgets in Ras Al Khaimah. The emirate has many options, whether you want breathtaking views or thrilling excursions.
Unique Cultural Excursions
No visit to Ras Al Khaimah would be complete without learning about the region’s history of pearling. Descending from a long line of pearl divers, Abdulla Al Suwaidi keeps the region’s pearl traditions alive with Suwaidi Pearl Farm. The farm offers tours, with opportunities to learn about age-old techniques and hear tales of the region’s pearl divers. Guests can travel on a traditional pearling boat – and you can even take home an Arabian pearl if you’re lucky enough to find one inside an oyster.
Discover Ancient Heritage Sites
Al Jazeera Al Hamra is a village with 500 impressive buildings where archaeologists have continued to discover ancient relics. Visitors can explore the location, marvel at the traditional architecture of a historic mosque and fort, and get lost in the meandering stone alleyways. Each February, the area is also home to the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival, displaying the work of emerging artists in the region.
Mountainous Adventures
Ras Al Khaimah is home to the highest peak in the UAE, meaning there are plenty of mountain activities to enjoy. One of the highlights is catching the sunrise from the summit of Camp 1770. At 1,770m above sea level, this is the highest camp in the country and a fun way to explore the great outdoors. Visitors can embark on day or night hikes, listen to stories around a campfire, and indulge in Emirati-cooked food while disconnecting from the bustle of city life.
Where to Stay
Luckily, Ras Al Khaimah doesn’t have the same price tags as neighbouring Dubai. If you’re on a budget, Al Hamra Village Hotel is one of the more affordable options in the area. Located in upscale Al Hamra, it is a perfect springboard for visiting the Al Hamra heritage site, Al Hamra Mall and several secluded white sandy beaches.
Luxury Accommodations
Ras Al Khaimah also has plenty of luxury hotels for those with a bigger budget. One of the most impressive is the super-modern InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa. The luxury beachfront escape sits on the shores of the Arabian Gulf and comes with world-class dining options and several elegant pools for indulgence and relaxation.
Getting There
Ras Al Khaimah does have an international airport, but most travellers from the UK can expect to fly directly into neighbouring Dubai. One of many airlines that fly this route is Emirates, which offers six daily flights between Dubai and London Heathrow. You can also take direct flights from other UK cities including Manchester. Flight time from the UK to Dubai is just under seven hours.
From Dubai, it's a little over a one-hour drive to Ras Al Khaimah. Renting a car is the easiest way to travel from Dubai to RAK and the best way to get around while sightseeing. However, public transport is also available; book the Ras Al Khaimah Shuttle Bus or take a taxi from Dubai Airport to Ras Al Khaimah.
Read more onUAE travel:
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- Hipster Dubai: How the UAE's glitziest city embraced avocado on toast
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