With cooler temperature, hiking trails, mountain adventures, and cultural excursions, Ras Al Khaimah is an ideal destination for short vacations
There is a corner of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that travellers miss entirely – Ras Al Khaimah or RAK.
It is the UAE’s Nature Emirate and an adventure playground. Yet it remains a personal and serene discovery. Ras Al Khaimah roughly translates to ‘top of the tent’ in Arabic and refers to its location within the country.
It sits just an hour north of Dubai, wedged between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Gulf. As a result, the temperature runs a few degrees cooler than in the southern emirates.
Here, the rust-coloured mountain of Jebel Jais, UAE’s tallest, rolls out its rugged carpet for an array of outdoor adventures. Like, racing down the world’s longest zipline at 150 km per hour! The 65-km mangrove coastline allows for a slow exploration of its rich biodiversity. Bedouin villages are the best way to experience desert life and Arab hospitality. Pearl fishing reveals Ras Al-Khaimah’s pride of place in the country’s maritime history, dating back several millennia.
The land where desert, sea, and mountains meet is well complemented by world-class hotels and resorts ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers. Although it’s an all-year-round destination, October to April are the cooler months for outdoor activities.
A three-hour hop from India, or a short drive from Dubai and Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah delivers the perfect short vacation for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike. Have your pick:
Jebel Jais is the adventure heartland
World’s longest zipline: Three minutes of pure adrenaline in a Superman pose? That’s the Jebel Jais Flight, a zipline which spans 2.83 km over rugged mountain canyons, shooting thrill-seekers at speeds up to 150 km/hour!
Mountain hiking: Trek up UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Jais, at 1,680 meters above sea level. Multiple trails wind through canyons and rocky mountain landscapes, offering gentle walks as well as challenging climbs. The summit rewards you with panoramic views and air that feels worlds away from desert heat. You can also opt for mountain sledding or the world’s longest toboggan run.
Camp 1770: Hike to this elevated campsite for breathtaking Jebel Jais views and mountain air that feels like a different country. Sleep under the stars at an altitude with a campfire keeping you warm.
Bear Grylls Explorers Camp: The only Bear Grylls camp in the Middle East. Learn survival skills, eco-living, and wilderness techniques in a setting designed by the ultimate adventurer himself.
Restaurant ‘1484 by Puro’: UAE’s highest restaurant, it takes its name from its elevation, 1,484 meters above sea level. It pairs European and Middle Eastern flavours. Every dish arrives with magnificent panoramas of craggy Hajar peaks. Reservation is mandatory.
Mangrove coastline exploration
Ras Al Khiamah has a 65-km-long coastline, and many stretches are guarded by mangroves. The ecosystem teems with biodiversity, with more than 100 species of birds, including pink flamingoes and migratory birds, and marine creatures. Leisurely kayak through the wetlands to watch this natural kingdom in action.
Dive into culture
Suwaidi Pearls: Visit the UAE’s only active pearl farm in Al Rams started as an ode to the erstwhile trade. Watch traditional diving methods innovate into sustainable aquaculture. A living story of heritage, innovation, and economic recovery.
Dhayah Fort: Visit the only hilltop fort still standing in the UAE. Site of the region’s last stand against British colonial power in 1819.
Al Jazeera Al Hamra: Visit the remarkably preserved former pearling village offering glimpses into life before the oil era.
View Ras Al Khaimah from the sky
Take micro-flights over Al Marjan Island’s man-made beauty and turquoise Gulf waters by choosing UAE’s first light-sport aviation club.
Where to stay?
Ras Al Khaimah offers accommodations as diverse as its landscape. Luxury resorts dot beaches with world-class spas and private shorelines. Mountain camps offer starlit skies, cool air, and adventure at arm’s length. There are family-friendly resorts with kids and teen clubs and water activities, and romantic hideaways for couples. Here are Panache’s top picks:
Anantara Mina Al Arab
The resort brings Maldivian-inspired ecoluxury to the northern emirate with overwater villa aesthetics, convenience, and private pools.
- Signature Asian and Mediterranean restaurants
- Anantara Spa with traditional Thai rituals and signature treatments
- Ideal for couples
InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa
The beachfront retreat offers you serene island living and award-winning spa treatments.
- Seven restaurants and bars serving international and local cuisines
- The best of Arabian hospitality
- Ideal for families with children, and couples
Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort
French elegance pairs up with Arabian charm at this beachfront property.
- A total of seven lounges and restaurants, and four ocean-facing swimming pools
- Sofitel SPA with Clarins features personalized services, plus a 24/7 fitness centre
- Sits next to Al Hamra Golf Club with a white-sand beach and turquoise waters, and is only 15 minutes away from Al Hamra Mall.
- Ideal for families and couples
Panache’s affiliation with these luxury hotels means you travel like a VIP, assured of room upgrades and spa credits.
Also read: Advantages of booking luxury hotels through Panache World
Ready to discover RAK’s wild side? Contact Panache World for bespoke adventures tailored to your pace and passion.
