Just 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport and with a history dating back more than 7,000 years, Ras Al Khaimah is a year-round destination offering something for everyone.
Often overlooked, Ras Al Khaimah offers more contrast than expected, from quiet beaches to desert dunes and rugged mountains.
It’s the only emirate where you can go from sea to summit in under an hour, with Jebel Jais rising to nearly 2,000 metres.
Resorts are spread out and low-rise, with space to breathe and a quieter atmosphere than Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Families will find long beaches, wide pools and easy access to soft adventure, including hiking, ziplining and dune drives.
Works well as a slower alternative to Dubai or as a second stop for travellers looking to see a different side of the UAE.
Quieter and more relaxed than Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah boasts an attractive setting in the lee of the Al Hajar Mountains and is fast making a name for itself as an exciting new luxury destination. Several of the world’s leading luxury hotel brands have opened resorts here in recent years, with many offering all-inclusive packages that mark the emirate out as a great-value destination.
Yet it’s also a destination for intrepid explorers, nature lovers, families and those in search of authentic Arabian culture. Ride the world’s longest zipline, Jais Flight, above the rugged terrain of the Al Hajar Mountains at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. Board a traditional pearling boat to learn about the Gulf’s centuries-old history of diving for pearls. Kayak among precious protected mangroves home to turtles and flamingos. Spend a night among the dunes in a luxurious desert camp. Cruise warm, azure waters on a traditional teak dhow. Or shop for spices and trinkets in the city’s bustling souqs.
The climate is mainly dry throughout the year with the hottest months occurring between June and September. The best time to visit is between October and May when the days are warm and the evenings are cool. Ramadan This is a Holy Month therefore there are restrictions on alcohol, outdoor dining and entertainment during this period. Ramadan 2018: 15 May to 14 June. 2019: 05 May to 04 June.
Surrounded by golden dunes and desert wildlife, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert is a luxurious Bedouin-style sanctuary offering private pool villas, stargazing, nature drives, a lavish spa and refined dining.
Tucked along a private stretch of coastline, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach offers secluded beachfront villas with private pools, refined dining, a serene spa and barefoot luxury at its most effortless – all with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.
This opulent beachfront resort, located 55 minutes away from Dubai Airport, is surrounded by deserts, mountains and sea, and is a standout property for couples and families alike. Hidden in the peaceful Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, here guests can do as much or as little as they desire.
This luxury resort is just 45 minutes from Dubai on Ras Al Khaimah’s Hayat Island, surrounded by soaring mountains, vast stretches of desert and the sparkling shores of the Arabian Gulf.
Set on a stunning natural beach surrounded by mangroves – just a 45-minute drive from Dubai – this luxurious resort offers 174 rooms, suites and pool villas, an indulgent Anantara spa and an impressive rollcall of watersports and activities.