11 Best Places to Visit in Ras Al Khaimah in 2024
Yes, the boredom of your mundane life is getting to you. You are gasping for a break and are looking for a much needed and much-deserved vacation. We suggest Ras Al Khaimah in the exotic Arabian land of UAE. Having a history of more than 7000 years, Ras Al Khaimah doesn’t fail to fascinate you. This place is not failed to earn its reputation as one of the most visited tourist places in the United Arab Emirates. It offers breathtaking landscapes, a vast desert with its sand glowing brightly in the sun and also an enchanting coastline.
We share information on 11 places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah that give you an experience of a lifetime.
Jebel Jais
Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah is at an altitude of 1,934 meters above sea level. This makes it the highest peak in the UAE. With eight hairpin bends and innumerable sharp turns, the road to the top of 35 kilometers offers a thrilling Jebel Jais zipline ride for tourists. It’s here that you’ll find the world’s longest zipline, offering a thrill-filled ride no adventure-seeking tourist will ever forget. For those looking for a relaxing vacation, we assure you that the drive to the top isn’t a spine chilling one as the road has three lanes.
Jazirat Al Hamra
If you’re looking to experience Arabian life up close this is the place for you at Ras Al Khaimah. The abandoned village dating back to the 16th century gives you a look into Arabian as it was before oil was discovered that completely transformed the UAE. You go back in time here as you walk past the traditional blackhouses, the mosques that were once throbbing with life, the wind towers and the schools and shops. The place gives you an eerie feeling having been abandoned in 1968.
Ras Al Khaimah National Museum
A treasure trove of pieces of antique that reveal the history of the UAE, this was the royal residence till the 1960s. It’s located in the older part of Ras Al Khaimah and is home to various fascinating archaeological items you can’t stop marveling at. The museum has the Natural History Room with items reflecting Arabian life on display like weapons and costumes as well as cultivation of dates. It sheds light on old Arabian life exhibiting items used for fishing and farming. The Qawasim Room houses documents of historical significance like the treaties between the British and the rulers of Ras Al Khaimah. The Ethnographic Section sheds light on traditional Arabian life in the Emirates with an emphasis on Arabian architecture.
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Shimal
You’ll find a small and rustic village, the historic hamlet of Shimal. Close to the Hajar Mountains, Shimal is of great historical and archaeological significance as one finds pre-Islamic tombs here. It was during several excavations that pieces of pottery and weapons were discovered. There’s historical evidence that suggests that the place had inhabitants dating back to as far as 2000-1300 BC. The Husn-al-Shimal Fort dating back to the small Islamic era is situated here. The most sensational discovery made here is the huge circular tomb belonging to the Umm-al-Nar period.
Al Hamra Mall
When in the UAE, you can’t take your eyes off the grand and opulent malls here. Yes, Ras Al Khaimah has them too and Al Hamra Mall is one you must go to. Spread over 45,000 sqm., this is a destination that gives you an unforgettable shopping experience along with exciting entertainment. There are over 100 retail stores offering a variety of goods right from electronic items to groceries. There’s not a dull moment for your kids at Fun Ville offering various rides and fun activities. The Vox Cinema here beckons you with the latest blockbusters.
Hajar Mountains
We have mentioned the Hajar Mountains while giving you information on other places. It’s time we tell you that the Hajar Mountains at Ras Al Khaimah is a sight to behold and a tourist destination in itself. With Jabal Yibir being its highest point at 1537 meters, the Hajar Mountains are of exotic beauty giving the city of Ras Al Khaimah a backdrop that takes your breath away. On one side of the mountains, the slopes are kissed by the waters of the sea while on the other side, there’s a vast span of a desert with sand dunes forming patterns of shadows on the sands. These mountains are known to have igneous rocks at its crust.
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Dhayah Fort
Situated beside the Al Rams Road, the Dhayah Fort is around 18 kilometers away from Ras Al Khaimah towards its north. It’s quite a task climbing a lot of stairs to get to the top, but once you are there, you realize it was worth the effort. The view from the fort is just brilliant and you can see the city and green date palm oasis down below. You also get a stunning view of the Hajar Mountains. This fort has been witness to a battle between the British and local tribesmen fought in 1819.
Wadi Shawkat
Located at a distance of just 92 km. From Dubai, Wadi Shawka is today a favorite among hikers. You can mingle with the locals as you walk through villages while exploring the area on your hike. A hike at Wadi Shawka is a very fulfilling experience as the hike covers activities that include off-road drives and a dip in a pool. You’ll be left marveling at the beauty of the scenic mountains and the greenery. You’ll also find natural springs here.
Iceland Water Park
The blazing sun might leave you a bit flustered at times. If you’re looking for cooler climes, you’ll be surprised to know that you won’t be denied that at Ras Al Khaimah. The Iceland Water Park happens to be the UAE’s first ice water park that’s sure to give you a gala time. It has lots of water slides suitable for people of various age groups. There are a lot of games too that you can enjoy. The place would be just right if you’re looking for team building activities for your employees.
Khatt Springs
These are hot springs, a gift of nature that contains various minerals known to have healing powers. Just beside the Hajar Mountains, these springs are just 20 km away from Ras Al Khaimah. The building here offering various kinds of therapeutic treatment like hot stone treatment is built like a castle. The place also offers ayurvedic treatment and the springs are known to cure various ailments like rheumatic diseases or problems in the muscles or skin. The area surrounding these springs are of great historical value and have around 170 archaeological sites.
Saqr Park
Saqr Park is a favorite among children and is located in the Keiran area. While being popular among children, the park offers adults too with various facilities like a tennis court, electronic cars, a rollercoaster, an electronic games hall and more. The park has a toy train too that’ll take you on a ride around the park. This park is a landmark in Ras Al Khaimah as this happens to be the first amusement park in the area.
Conclusion
Ras Al Khaimah isn’t quite the glamorous and glitzy metropolis that Dubai is but it is no less a fascinating tourist destination offering a blend of history and modern life. There are destinations here that tell you about the traditional Arabian lifestyle. While Ras Al Khaimah has trendy malls, it also has locations that are a journey back in time. Our guide on 11 places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah is sure to help you. Do let us know if you would like to get any other place included.
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