The City of Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah literally means the “Top of the Tent”. It is the Nothern most Emirate and one of the seven that make up the United Arab Emirates – others being Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al Quwain and Fujairah.

Located just around an hour’s drive from Dubai, RAK – as it is more commonly referred to by the locals, is blessed with year-round sunshine and pristine beaches. The residents of RAK come from different backgrounds, making it culturally diverse and this is reflected in the numerous cuisines, artifacts and events that form the social scene here. The habitants of RAK comprise of 50% local Emiratis and 50% expat community – making it an ideal place to take in the local traditions and at the same time you will find something that will resonate your feelings of being at home. The emirate is renowned for its hospitality and over the recent years has become a popular staycation destination for people living in the other Emirates too.

RAK is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. The majestic Hajar mountains and the highest peak in the UAE – Jebel Jais, form the perfect backdrop to this beautiful city. The mesmerizing coastline stretching almost 64kms in length, is home to many world-renowned hotels and public beaches where locals often flock to during the evenings and holidays. The expansive desert offers a perfect opportunity for those adventure seekers who want to take in the majestic dunes and camping safaris.

Archeological findings point out to the fact that RAK has been home to ancient trading civilisations since 5,000 BC. Its strategic location in the Arabian Gulf, made it quite accessible and had been frequented by visitors and explorers. The records indicate that the people from RAK travelled through the seas to destinations like India, China and Zanzibar as early as the 10^th century. With its history dating back almost 7,000 years, one can find interesting sites like beautiful mosques, ancient forts and the historic village of Al Jazirah Al Hamra.

The combination of its history, culture, sea, mountains and desert make RAK a unique destination to live and visit.

ACTIVITIES:

• Jais Flight – World’s Longest Zip-line. For thrill-seekers, it doesn’t get better than this. At a length of approximately 2.8km and with speeds of up to 150 kmph, this is a hair-raising experience. Coasting through the rugged mountains at a height of 1,680m above the Arabian Gulf, you will feel like flying on top of the world.

• Suwaidi Pearls Farm. The age-old tradition of pearl fishing is revered in RAK and reminiscence of this activity can be re-lived at the Suwaidi Pearls Farm in Al Rams, on the outskirts of Ras al Khaimah. The visit would include a fascinating journey aboard a traditional pearl fishing boat with a guide narrating you the past and present of pearl fishing industry.

• Al Wadi Equestrian Adventure Centre. The Centre is nestled within the vast red sand dunes of Ras al Khaimah’s desert lands. Here you can find Arabian horses, oryx, camels and desert foxes among others. One can indulge in horse riding lessons or take a leisurely stroll through the dunes on a horseback.

• Other Activities. Apart from the above, you can also engage in some hiking, camping, microlight flights or fly on a hot air balloon.

FOOD & DRINKS

RAK boasts a plethora of restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world and to suit every kind of budget. Popular locations like the Corniche, Mina al Arab and Al Hamra Village are host to some high end restaurants and entire city is full of budget food joints that offer delicious meals for students.

SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT

For those who like to indulge in some retail therapy, can head to one of the beautiful malls in the city. Manar Mall and Al Hamra Mall are also home to Novo & Vox cinemas respectively, with both playing latest releases from Hollywood, Bollywood and other regional cinemas. RAK Mall, Safeer Mall and Al Naeem Mall also house various branded and local shops, offering all that one can ever need.

TRANSPORT

The local public buses run frequently and cover most of the city. This is the cheapest form of transport. Local Taxis are also very reasonable due to shorter distances. There are also inter-city buses that run between RAK and other Emirates and students often use them to visit Dubai on the weekends.

SPORTS

There are various clubs and facilities for one to indulge in some sporting activities. The city has a number of tennis courts, football pitches, badminton courts, table tennis venues and the ever-popular Padel courts. Padel is picking up in popularity in the UAE and its common to find most people engaging in a game or two during their leisure time.

Source: www.visitrasalkhaimah.com