Ras Al Khaimah
Jebel Jais, Zipline Adventures, Hiking, Beach Resorts, Mangroves, Pearl Diving Heritage, Desert Camps, Historic Forts
Ras Al Khaimah is the most northerly of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, less than an hour's drive from Dubai. Known as the Nature Emirate, it packs rugged mountains, red desert dunes, mangrove-lined creeks and around 60 kilometres of beaches into a compact area.
Its centrepiece is Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE at around 1,934 metres, where cooler air, hiking trails, viewing decks and the Jais Flight zipline, one of the longest in the world, have made the emirate the adventure capital of the region.
Ras Al Khaimah also has a deep history, from the hilltop Dhayah Fort and the National Museum to the abandoned pearling village of Jazirat Al Hamra. On the coast, beach resorts on Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra offer a relaxed alternative to the big cities.
Top Reasons to Visit Ras Al Khaimah
1. Jebel Jais
Drive the winding mountain road to the summit area of Jebel Jais for sweeping views, marked hiking trails, cooler temperatures and dining with a view.
2. The Jais Flight Zipline
Fly over the mountains on the Jais Flight, recognised as one of the world's longest ziplines, or try the shorter Jais Sky Tour and the Jais Sledder mountain coaster.
3. Beaches and Resorts
Relax on the man-made islands of Al Marjan or along the coast at Al Hamra, with water sports, golf and calm, warm sea.
4. Heritage and Pearling History
Climb to Dhayah Fort, explore the coral-stone houses of Jazirat Al Hamra and visit a pearl farm to learn about the Gulf's pearl-diving traditions.
5. Mangroves and Nature
Kayak through the mangroves of Al Qurm, looking out for herons and crabs, and watch for flamingos in the coastal wetlands.
6. Desert Escapes
Spend an evening in the red dunes with a desert camp dinner, stargazing and traditional Emirati hospitality.
