Holidays to Ras Al Khaimah – £49pp deposits^

Ras Al Khaimah travel guide

• When is the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah?

  The climate is sub-tropical here, meaning it’s semi-arid with warm temperatures, infrequent rainfall and blue skies most of the year. Lovely! Between November and April the average daytime temperature reaches about 28°C, whereas in the summer months between June and August, temperatures rise into the 30s°C.

  Fun fact: in the Hajar Mountains, the temperature is actually about 10 degrees lower than at sea level.

• Things to do in Ras Al Khaimah

  Adrenaline a-go-go

  Ras Al Khaimah boasts Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak in the Hajar Mountains, where you can launch yourself off the world’s longest zipline, Jebel Flight, at speeds that’ll clear the cobwebs – 150km/h, to be exact. You don’t have to see Jebel Jais at speed though – you can always just hike it by following a bunch of proper scenic trails with jaw-dropping views.

  If heights aren’t your thing, there’s plenty to explore down below, like the vast red dunes of the Al Wadi Desert, which you can get up close and personal with on a quad bike like you’re Tom Cruise in an action movie.
  
  

  Now for some nature

  Dial it back a bit with some kayaking in RAK’s natural mangroves, where you could spot flamingos and herons, and definitely wonder why you don’t kayak more often.

  Over at Khatt Springs, to the west of the Emirate, is where you can soak in three famed natural sulphur springs.
  
  

  Say hello to history

  But it’s not just about adrenaline rushes here; it’s also a bit of a history buff’s dream. The Dhayah Fort, a 16th-century fortress perched on a hill, gives you both a history lesson and a leg workout with its climb. Meanwhile, Al Jazeera Al Hamra offers a glimpse of pre-oil life, being the only remaining historical pearling village in the entire Gulf region - it's even on the UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Tentative List.

  Then there’s the RAK National Museum, housed in a former fort, which gives you a deep dive into the emirate’s past, from Bedouin life to maritime trade and archaeology. Mohammed Bin Salim Mosque, on the other hand, is the largest surviving traditional mosque in the UAE, and still in use today.
  
  

  Time to chill

  And if all that exploring makes you crave some downtime, RAK’s 64km-long coastline is a haven of white sandy beaches and gorgeous resorts – picture everything from five-star pampering, infinity pools, and private cabanas, to family-friendly all-inclusive hide-outs.

• Top 5 places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah

  Jebel Jais

  The UAE’s highest mountain and home to the world’s longest zipline. Zooming at 150 km/h, hiking scenic trails, or just enjoying the jaw-dropping views, if there’s anything worth seeing in Ras Al Khaimah, it’s Jebel Jais. Bonus: The winding mountain road up is one of the most scenic drives in the country!
  
  

  Dhayah Fort

  A 16th-century fort perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the sea, desert, and mountains. Climbing the 100+ steps might leave you a bit breathless, but so will the history - it was the site of a legendary battle against the British in 1819.
  
  

  Al Wadi Desert

  This desert is an essential RAK experience. Explore the dunes in a quad bike, or take a more relaxed approach with a stay at the Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi, complete with private villas, nature walks, and stargazing, Arabian-style.
  
  

  Suwaidi Pearl Farm

  A unique insight into the UAE’s pearl-diving heritage, this floating farm offers boat tours, hands-on pearl extraction, and a chance to learn why RAK was once the heart of the Arabian pearl trade. You might even leave with a pearl of your own - if you’re lucky!
  
  

  Marjan Island

  Marjan Island is Ras Al Khaimah’s man-made archipelago, stretching into the Arabian Gulf. Think of it as RAK’s own little version of Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah - it’s made up of four coral-shaped islands and is packed with five-star resorts, private beaches, and waterfront promenades perfect for sunset strolls. But if you’re looking for more than just sipping cocktails by the sea, there’s also kayaking, jet skiing, and diving for a bit of adventure.

• Is Ras Al Khaimah good for shopping?

  Just like elsewhere in the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah has a good mix of more traditional shopping opportunities, like Old RAK Souk (think spices, textiles, perfumes and the occasional hidden gem if you’re willing to bargain) and other markets where you can get a slice of real, local life, as well as good old classic malls, stocked with all the brands you know and love.

  Manar Mall is the city’s oldest and most popular mall with its own waterfront promenade and indoor ice rink, whilst other malls like Al Hamra offer a cinema and a food court to boot.

• What is the cuisine in Ras Al Khaimah?

  Eat like the locals

  Ras Al Khaimah’s food scene is a delicious mix of Emirati traditions, Middle Eastern spices, and international influences thanks to its diverse population.

  Try machboos, the UAE’s answer to biryani, made with chicken, lamb, or seafood and packed with saffron, cardamom, and dried limes for extra depth. Or give a harees a go – a simple but comforting dish of wheat and slow-cooked meat, often eaten during Ramadan or special occasions. It’s smooth, rich, and surprisingly filling.

  Given RAK’s coastal location, seafood is a big deal here. Grilled kingfish, hammour (grouper), and prawns are commonly found on menus, often marinated in Emirati spices and served with rice. You’ll also find traditional dishes like samak mashwi, where fish is grilled over an open flame, keeping it smoky and flavourful.
  
  

  A spot of fine dining

  Ras Al Khaimah may be known for its rugged mountains and pristine beaches, but it also has a growing fine dining scene that caters to those who enjoy a side of luxury with their meals.

  Lexington Grill & Bar at the Waldorf Astoria serves prime cuts of steak with a side of dim lighting, plush seating, and top-tier service, whilst Piaceri Da Gustare at Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort is all about Italian indulgence in a relaxed but slick environment – all overlooking the Arabian Gulf.

  If you love Thai food with a fine dining twist, you’ve gotta try Sanchaya at DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island, who offer up everything from fragrant curries to expertly grilled meats.

• Ras Al Khaimah lifestyle & culture

  Dos & Don’ts

  Whilst 80% of the population of the United Arab Emirates is made up of non-UAE nationals, remember that this is a Muslim country and local traditions and customs should be respected.
  
  

  Dress Code

  Ras Al Khaimah is a modern and liberal emirate, with no rules or regulations on the dress code to be followed by tourists. However, modest and ethical dressing is expected from guests as a matter of respect to the local citizens and their culture. And remember - shoulders and knees should be covered when entering places of worship, such as mosques.

• Is alcohol legal in Ras Al Khaimah?

  Yes! Alcohol is legal in Ras Al Khaimah - in selected areas.

  Alcohol is mainly sold in hotel bars or hotel restaurants, golf clubs or within other tourist areas, it won’t be served in public restaurants or spaces. Also, unlike in the UK, you must be 21 or older to drink in Ras Al Khaimah. Drunkenness in public is not tolerated either - so if you're planning a few drinks, it's best to stick to your hotel.