Ras Al Khaimah
Date Posted: 23/04/2019
You may have heard of Ras Al Khaimah’s more famous sisters such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but this northernmost emirate is one of the most authentic middle-east destinations you can visit.
White sandy beaches, breath-taking landscapes, and spectacular coastlines with rich terracotta desert planes are just a snippet of what Ras Al Khaimah has to offer. Just 45 minutes from the busy metropolis of Dubai, it’s guaranteed to give you a truly unique experience to its neighbouring emirates.
Offering year-long sunshine, Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect destination to retreat no matter what the time of year. Whether you’re looking for a family break, trip away with the girls, or golfing week with the boys then make sure the next flight you book is to this soon-to-be-famous emirate.
Culture and heritage are still very much part of this Arabic state with traditions of camel racing, falconry, and pearl fishing still part of your average day. So, let’s take a closer look at what you can expect once you step into this truly mesmerising state.
Not only is there 64km of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Ras Al Khaimah is also a host to some of the world’s most renowned health spas. Relax in total elegance with an invigorating massage in your very own cabana on the beach. There isn’t a more relaxing place to let your worries wash away as the turquoise water laps gently against the shore.
The sapphire waters of the Arabian Gulf also bring a world of thrills. The stunning coastline is a hotspot for a number of thrilling water sports from scuba diving and jet skiing to flyboarding. Staying true to its sea faring ways, partake in deep sea fishing and catch exotic fish such as King Fish, Barracuda, Cobia, and Queen Fish.
Formed over 70 million years ago and bordering Oman, Hajar Mountains offers something for everyone. Home to the UAE’s tallest mountain, Jabel Jais, the trek to the summit 1,934m above sea level isn’t for the faint-hearted. The Hajar Mountains offer a number of biking routes with dramatic canyons and views around every corner. For those looking to take it easy, pack your best picnic hamper and take in the spectacular views. Make sure you don’t miss out on camping under the stars; with the mountain region being far from light pollution you’re guaranteed perfect dark skies to take in a mesmerising star gazing experience.
Whilst in the mountains make sure you tick off the bucket list experience of Jebel Jais Flight – the world’s longest zip line. At a height of 1,680m above sea level the zip line reaches speeds of up to 150kph setting the Guinness World Record; a must for adrenaline junkies to really get blood pumping.
Watch as the desert turns into a sea of blossom in the winter months and blooms with beautiful ephemerals and hyacinths. Various desert camps across the region provide an insight into culture, which were formerly home to nomadic people. Take a camel ride, enjoy a four-wheel drive safari ride, or hop on a dune buggy to glide through the sensational desert sand dunes.
Grab your caddy and hit Al Hamra Golf Club, host of the European Challenge Golf Tour. Ras Al Khaimah is quickly becoming a leading golf destination with a selection of 18-hole golf courses. Make sure to hit a par on the Emirates’ most natural golf course, Alternatice Tower Links. With 11 out of 18 holes meandering around a mangrove reserve with the Hajar Mountains as a backdrop, it’s a must if only for the scenery.
Keep the children entertained and make a splash at Ice Land Water Park before reaching new speeds at RAK Track Go Kart. Whatever you decide to do, there are endless amounts of fun and activities to keep even the most active children entertained - with everything from Saqr Public Park to a multiplex cinema in the Emirates mall.
Whether you jog along Al Qawasaim Corniche, walk the suburban areas of Al Hamra Island, or practice your best yoga poses at sunset, Ras Al Khaimah will leave you with ever-lasting memories.
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