Ras Al-Khaimah is that pleasant, laid-back,
sun-kissed part of the UAE which is a restful escape from the hustle and bustle
of busy Dubai. Ras Al-Khaimah is located at northern tip of the UAE, backed by
the majestic Hajar Mountains. The sea is turquoise blue and unspoilt, with
miles and miles of pristine beach for play. The Ras Al Khaimah region is rich
in history, as has been proven by the many archaeological excavations that have
taken place here. This area has been inhabited since the 3rd millennium BC. So
there you have it – pristine beaches, wonderful sights, rugged sports on the
Hajar Mountains and a rich history in a modern, atmospheric city. Plus, the
world’s longest zipline! Couldn’t ask for more, could you?
1. Ras Al-Khaimah National
Museum
Once a fort and the home of the ruling
family till the early 1960s, the museum displays a plethora of archaeological
and ethnological artefacts. These range from a collection of rare documents in
the Qawasim Room, including treaties between RAK and Great Britain in the good
old days. You’ll find several traditional weapons that once were used by the ruling
family. You’ll also find many archaeological finds dating back to the early
settlers, all the way up to the late Islamic period. You’ll also learn about
the Emirati way of life before oil was struck as well. The RAK museum is one of
the best tourist attractions in Ras Al Khaimah.
2. Dhayah Fort
The Dhayah Fort was built during the 16th
century in order to defend the region from British attack from the sea. It’s a mud-brick
fort that still stands strong on its strategic hilltop position facing the gulf.
The fort has played a crucial role in RAK’s
history. From the fort, you can see other watchtowers and fortifications
towards the south. The famous battle
between the Emiratis and the British in 1891 destroyed a great deal of the
defence set up. Enjoy the immensely panoramic views from the fort's ramparts
and explore the old but very atmospheric fort.
3. Jazirat al-Hamra
Jazirat al-Hamra is an abandoned fishing
village that’s now almost in ruins. This place is a tourist attraction because
it’s a very photogenic place. The houses of this village have been constructed
out of traditional coral blocks, at a time when using coral wasn’t banned yet.
The simple houses in their black coral are well preserved in the dry heat of
the desert. Explore this village and take as many pictures as you like. Ponder on
its unique lost-in-time atmosphere.
4. Jebel Jais Zip Line
Jebel Jais is the UAE’s tallest peak.
There’s much you can do here – drive up to the summit at 1,934 meters, hike,
trek, enjoy great views from viewing platforms along the route and more. But
more than the beautiful far-reaching vistas, you’ll find something more recent
pulling at your interests – the new Jebel Jais Zipline. If you’re a thrill
seeker, you’re going to love ziplining at speeds of up to 150kph at 1,680
metres above sea level. You’ll be fitted with a special harness, and for about
three minutes, you’ll be in a world of your own, screaming away in joy. Check
out blog posts on the world’s longest zipline; you’ll be thrilled to bits!
5. Khatt Springs
Visit the mineral-rich hot water pools of Khatt
Springs, to soak in the therapeutic and relaxing properties of the water. The
Khatt Springs resort is located in a lush, green palm-tree strewn oasis, with
the Hajar Mountains at its back. Enjoy soaking away your cares, worries, muscle
pains and other issues in the incredibly soothing waters of Khatt Springs. When
you’ve had enough, take some time to explore some of the 170 archaeological
sites in the area. Over the years, archaeologists have uncovered several prehistoric
tombs and mud-brick fortification towers from the 19th century.
6. Hajar Mountain Safari
Do you want to experience the true charm of
the Hajar Mountains? How about signing up for a guided mountain safari, which
includes a scenic drive along the mountain foothills. The safari includes
various activities such as biking, abseiling, rock climbing, mountaineering and
hill walking for the outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to experience the ‘Wadi Descent’
where you’ll be traversing through the narrow waterways that flow in the mountains.
It’s an exciting safari and one meant for those who truly like to challenge
themselves in the outdoors. It’s also a way to know the Hajar Mountains
intimately, so don’t miss out on this!
7. Iceland Waterpark
What a perfect break from the scorching
heat of the city! If you have kids in your party, you cannot do better than to
take them to RAK’s well known Iceland Water Park. Enjoy various thrilling
rides, slides and lazy rivers and other water-based fun at Iceland Waterpark,
feeling cool and refreshed. Be sure to enjoy the Penguin Falls, Mount Attack,
Pengu Pool, Coral Isle, Kids Cove, Mount Cyclone and other fun rides.
8. Ras Al Khaimah Zoo
The Ras al-Khaimah zoo covers an area of
one million square meters, which makes it the UAE’s third largest zoo. Be sure
to admire the very beautiful and scary rare white and golden tigers. The zoo
also has its share of black panthers, cheetahs, rare antelope, deer, African
and white lions, wild buffaloes and more. Don’t miss out the aviary which has a
collection of lovely birds from around the world. The zoo’s creatures are
maintained within air-conditioned cages and pool areas. Their cage walls are decorated
with 3D images that depict scenes from the animals’ natural habitats. You can
get close to the animals and admire them, as there are plenty of guards to
maintain safety.
9. Ras Al Khaimah Beaches
If you’re not interested in history or
sightseeing, then you’ll love the pristine white sand beaches of Ras Al Khaimah.
The scenery is simply magical, with miles of ocean stretched out in front of
you, turquoise blue and green, under the cornflower blue sky. At RAK’s beaches
you can go snorkelling and diving, and of course, swimming and beach bumming.
Below the waterline you’ll find beautiful black coral colonies that are a
diver’s delight. Enjoy the best of Ras Al Khaimah attractions at the emirate’s
many beaches.
10. Desert Safari
RAK’s immense red sand dune desert is a beautiful
landscape that simply must be experienced. It’s pristine and lovely and
inspires the adventurer and poet within you. You can enjoy desert adventure
sports such as dune bashing, quad biking, camel riding and sand boarding to
your heart’s content. Sign up for an evening or overnight desert safari and you
can enjoy a wonderful Emirati dinner with entertainment as well. RAK is well
known for the Bassata Desert Village in Al Wadi, where you can gain an insight
into the desert life of old.
Conclusion
RAK has something for every kind of
tourist. If you love sunbathing and swimming, you got it. If you are an
adrenalin junkie, then the Jebel Jais Zipline will have you all thrilled out.
RAK is the best destination for a holiday for kids as well, so what are you
waiting for?
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