Ras Al-Khaimah (RAK) is one of the 7 Emirates that together make the UAE, and historically it takes over the territory of Julfar, an ancient port in the Gulf famous for its trade.
It’s located in the north of the country and has some dramatic scenery compared to other emirates: just look at these mountain ranges!
There are a few things you can see on the territory of RAK such as Jebel Jais mountains with the world longest zip line and functioning pearling farm Suwaidi. We actually planned to go there but on the day when we were meant to go it rained really hard – so unusual for this part of the world! – and our trip got cancelled. However there are quite a few other things to see in RAK city, the main city of the Emirate, too! Check them below.
1. National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah
The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah is the main museum of RAK opened in 1987. It is located in the old fort dating back to the 16th century and is completely renovated.
I must say it looks very modern compared to some other similar museums of the region: there are glass automatic doors, modern informational signs and no wax dolls at all!
You can explore various expositions located in separate rooms spread over two floors: there are daily life, historical aspects, armory and education sections among others (and a few rooms were closed during the time of our visit). Also come to the watch tower to see the city from above!
There’s also a small shop in the museum.
2. Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village
Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village is a must visit if you’re in RAK because a real historical village has been established here since the 17th century. Now it’s a redesigned area with remnants of a fort and modern art installations divided among a few dozens of bayts.
For instance, during our visit there was a large Fine Arts Exhibition and Memory Exhibition. Besides that, there are many small shops with souvenirs, local arts and crafts, clothes, toys and a cafe!
As you spot while walking by, there are some ancient structures remaining on the site such as a mosque or house ruins made of coral stones. This is an absolutely unique feature of this village because usually the touristic sites in the regions tend to be built from scratch.
3. Sheikh Zayed Mosque
If you plan to see the area around the old Corniche and new Corniche, don’t miss Sheikh Zayed Mosque! It was constructed around the rule of Sheikh Saqr bin Rashid Al Qasimi in the 18th century but now it’s fully restored. It’s big enough to welcome a thousand worshippers.
4. Corniche Al Qawasim
This corniche was named ‘Al Qawasim’ after the influential family who ruled this territory and controlled trade here.
Corniche Al Qawasim is a perfect 3km long place for a walk under tree shadows, to have some coffee in one of the cafes and to observe the wildlife.
And of course come here to admire one of the main features of RAK – this amazing mountain view of Jebel Jais (although it was a bit foggy during our visit, it was absolutely magnificent).
You can also spot a flagpole with the UAE flag from here.
5. Old Corniche
Close to the ‘new’ corniche there is an old corniche. Old Corniche Ras Al-Khaimah provides beautiful sea views over the gulf as this promenade opens up directly over the sea.
6. Kuwaiti Souq Market
There is an old souk located near the Old Corniche.
It’s called Kuwaiti Souq Market, and as you can see, it’s the most traditional local market you can imagine, with many stalls selling textiles, utensils, clothes, carpets and other things for daily use. Part of the souk is dedicated solely to the golden goods.
7. Al Hawra mall
Al Hawra mall just opened after renovation and is a fine looking modern mall.
You can find here a supermarket, a few cafes and restaurants (including Turkish – Lebanese Armeria, Japanese restaurant Sushi Library and a Starbucks), some jewellery and fashion options and a few kids zones.
How to get to Ras Al-Khaimah
We opted to fly directly to Sharjah, the neighboring emirate – it took us an hour to get to our hotel. However you can fly to Dubai airport too, I’ll prolong your journey for about half an hour.
Where to stay in Ras Al-Khaimah
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah is a luxury beach side hotel with outdoor pools, beach access (it was under redevelopment during our visit), a few restaurants, a large territory and a kids club.
it’s a giant building with both hotel rooms and residencies, and it has been just recently renovated.
We loved it a lot, and we’d be glad to return there once their beach area is redeveloped – and next time for a much longer stay!
All the guests are welcomed by a hotel’s she-falcon Miriam – and we also watched her getting sun baths daily on the outside.
We got a super spacious stylish room overlooking a golf course. The skincare they provide guests with is Aesop. George had a sweet welcome gift too as well as an activity passport.
We loved both restaurants we had a chance to visit. Azure provides guests with a stylish Mediterranean experience with a Spanish/Italian inspired menu.
The Umi is a fantastic Japanese restaurant with a great selection of Asian dishes for the whole family.
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Yours,
Anna xxx
