Escape Dubai For Ras Al Khaimah UAE's Other Emirate

Just over an hour from Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah provides a more laid-back and affordable alternative to its glamorous neighbour. Among the luxury hotels and fine dining, Tamara Davison discovers a wealth of cultural heritage and nature-centric experiences.

Gliding across the calm turquoise waters through the mangroves of Al Rams, I see the towering Hajar mountains in front of me. The wooden boat I am travelling in is transporting me to a remote pontoon home to the world's first Arabian pearl farm. In waters filled with flamingos and turtles, a small team of Emiratis is reviving the old trade, cultivating exquisite pearls with modern pearling techniques. Mountain ranges and ancient pearling traditions might not be the first things that spring to mind when you think of the United Arab Emirates, with Dubai's famous skyscrapers and luxurious resorts tending to take centre stage. But I am in Ras Al Khaimah, one of the UAE's other emirates. Just an hour's drive from the heart of Dubai, the northernmost emirate has historically been considered a prominent trade centre. In recent years, it has become an attractive getaway for all those looking for a genuinely authentic UAE experience. Like other emirates, it is short of luxury hotels. Still, RAK also provides tranquil beaches, a wealth of cultural heritage sites and a nature-centric experience that is a perfect getaway from busy Dubai. The city has long been a hidden gem in the Middle East, and after attracting 1.22 million visitors in 2023, it will not remain a secret for long. The region's new focus on tourism means that now is the most suitable time for visiting.

 What To Do?

Adventurous souls and laid-back beach bums can find plenty of things to do in RAK that suit all budgets. The Emirates has numerous options, whether you want breathtaking views or thrilling excursions.

 Distinctive Cultural Excursions

Your trip to Ras Al Khaimah would only be complete with learning about the region's history of pearling. Descending from a long line of pearl divers, Abdulla Al Suwaidi keeps the emirate's pearl traditions alive with Suwaidi Pearl Farm. The farm gives tours, with numerous chances to learn about the age-old techniques and hear enchanting tales of the region's pearl divers. Guests can travel on a local pearling boat and even take away home an Arabian pearl if they are lucky enough to find one inside an oyster.

 Know More About The Ancient Heritage Sites

Al Jazeera Al Hamra is a village with 500 impressive buildings where archaeologists have continued discovering ancient relics. Visitors can explore the location, marvel at the traditional architecture of a historic mosque and fort, and wander the meandering stone alleyways. Every February, the area is also home to the RAK Art Festival, which displays the work of local artists.

Another spectacular historical site is Dhayah Fort, which provides panoramic views from the mountains to the ocean if you climb its 239 stairs. Recently on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, Dhayah Fort is the last remaining British troops and regional tribes. Numerous tombs and buildings are dotted around the location that can be masked within an hour or two. However, there is no step-free access and with temperatures topping 40 degrees Celsius in summer, it is best to leave climbing in the midday sun.

 Mountainous Adventures

RAK houses are at the highest peak in the UAE, meaning there are plenty of mountain activities. One of the highlights is catching the sunrise from the summit of Camp 1770. At 1770 m above sea level, this is the highest camp in the country and a fun way of exploring the great outdoors. Visitors and travellers can embark on day or night hikes, listen to stories around a campfire, and immerse in Emirati-cooked food while disconnecting from the bustle of life of the city.

Mountains of the RAK are also the perfect location for thrill seekers, thanks to the opening of Jais Flight, the world's longest zipline. Initiating at a hair-raising altitude of 1680 m above the Arabian Gulf, daredevils can enjoy breathtaking views as they descend on the 2,832 m long zipline. You can reach up to 160 km per hour during the three-minute experience. Those looking for a calmer experience can still love the impressive mountain views from 1484. This luxury restaurant situated 1484 m up the mountain is the highest place in the UAE for enjoying a bite. There is an afternoon tea with a selection of hearty local meals and international favourites like fish and chips on the menu.

 Where To Stay?

Luckily, RAK does not have the same price tags as neighbouring Dubai. If you are on a budget, Al Hamra Village Hotel is one of the more affordable options in the area situated in upscale Al Hamra. It is a perfect springboard for visiting the Al Hamra Mall and numerous secluded white sandy beaches. RAK also has various luxury hotels for those with a bigger budget. One of the most impressive is the super modern InterContinental RAK Resort and Spa. The lavish beachfront escape sits on the shores of the Arabian Gulf and comes with world-class dining options and many elegant pools for indulgence and relaxation. The breakfast is unparalleled, and the idyllic location is a perfect starting point for exploring RAK.

 How to Get There?

RAK does have an international airport, but most travellers from the UK can expect to fly directly into neighbouring Dubai. One of many airlines that fly this route is Emirates, which offers six flights between Dubai and London Heathrow. You can also take direct flights from other UK cities, including Manchester. Flight time from the UK to Dubai is just under seven hours. From Dubai, it is a little over a one-hour drive to RAK. Renting a car is the easiest way of travelling from Dubai to RAK and the best way to get around while sightseeing. However, public transport is also available: book the RAK Shuttle Bus or taxi from Dubai Airport to RAK.

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