Ras Al Khaimah is the northernmost of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, in Asia. It is a destination that brings together three landscapes within a short distance of each other: mountains, beaches and archaeological sites.
What the emirate offers
- Mountains rise inland, giving the emirate a scenery quite different from the sand and coastline most visitors picture when they think of the Gulf.
- Beaches line its shoreline, making it a place to combine time by the sea with time in the hills.
- Archaeological sites reflect the long human presence in the area and add a historical layer to a trip.
Planning a visit
Ras Al Khaimah has a growing tourism industry, so visitors will find a range of places to stay and things to do. A trip can suit those who want a mix of outdoor landscape and cultural interest rather than a city-only stay. Because the emirate spans mountains and coast, it works well as a base for both active days and slower ones, and travellers may wish to plan their route around the areas they most want to see.
If you are weighing up whether to go, consider what you want from a holiday in the UAE. Those drawn to varied terrain, quieter beaches and sites that connect to the region's past will find Ras Al Khaimah a rewarding choice.