Image by Gabriela Maj / Getty Images

Ras Al Khaimah

Surrounded by the fierce Hajar Mountains, Ras Al Khaimah (or simply ‘RAK’, pronounced 'rass-al-kai-muh') is the UAE’s northernmost emirate. Both beach-sloths and outdoor enthusiasts love it here, thanks to sandy shores, sprawling oases and sun-baked desert, all on the emirate's doorstep.

While the call of the beach still laps up most visitors, who rarely move from the confines of their resort, RAK has been pulling out the stops in recent years to capitalise on its natural surroundings. Jebel Jais (the UAE's tallest mountain) is front-and-centre of the development, offering the world's longest zip line and a via ferrata route.

After the swish resort beaches and adrenaline-fuelled mountain vistas, RAK City itself can seem bland. To see the city looking its best, head here at sunset to join families and joggers for the evening promenade down Al Qawasim Corniche, fronting the creek and overlooked by the pearly white Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

Explore Ras Al Khaimah

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Ras Al Khaimah.

  • Mountain

    Jebel Jais

    The highest peak in the UAE at 1934m, Jebel Jais is even occasionally dusted with snow. A switchback road snakes up the mountainside delivering vistas of…

  • Ghost Town

    Jazira Al Hamra Fishing Village

    With roots in the 16th century, this abandoned town is one of the oldest and best-preserved coastal villages in the UAE. Its people subsisted mostly on…

  • Mosque

    Mohammed Bin Salim Mosque

    This modest mosque dating to the late 19th century has recently been painstakingly restored using the traditional building method of plaster layered over…

  • Viewpoint

    Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park

    As observation decks go, it doesn't get much posher than this. Opened in early 2018, the landscaped and manicured viewing terraces here at 1250m have…

  • Fortress

    Dhayah Fort

    It's well worth climbing the zigzagging staircase (you'll need sturdy shoes – this is not flip-flops territory) to this twin-towered hilltop fortress to…

  • Museum

    National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah

    This museum occupies a 19th-century fort – the residence of the Qawassim rulers until 1964. Behind the ornate wooden doors of its salons are a hodgepodge…

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Ras Al Khaimah.

  • Activities