Ras Al Khaimah holidays

How to reach Ras Al Khaimah

Flight time: There are no direct flights to Ras Al Khaimah from the UK, and most visitors land at Dubai International Airport. Flights to Dubai take approximately 7 hours, and are available from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle and other major UK airports.

Transfer time: From Dubai International Airport to Ras Al Khaimah takes around 1.5 hours, and most visitors opt for a taxi or private transfer. There is also an intercity bus service available, which takes longer.

Price: A standard taxi will cost about Dhs250 (£53), with private transfers being more expensive. The bus costs around Dhs30 (£6.50).

Weather and best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah enjoys dry, sunny weather year-round, making it a popular destination for UK travellers, but it can get seriously hot in the summer. Here’s a quick look at what each season offers.

Winter (November to March) is the best time for holidays to Ras Al Khaimah and escaping from the UK’s winter chill. With high temperatures at a pleasant 18°C to 30°C, it's ideal for outdoor adventures, desert safaris, exploring the cultural sites and enjoying the beach. The number of visitors is also highest, as are prices for flights and hotels, and you may need to book accommodation in advance.

Summer (June to August) has the hottest weather, regularly well over 40°C, so while this is a quieter time to visit – good deals can be found for hotels – be prepared for limited time outdoors during the hottest part of the day. Enjoy either water-based activities or being inside in air conditioning, with everything from shopping malls to museums.

Spring and autumn (April to May and September to October) are the shoulder seasons, warmer than winter but not as sweltering as the height of summer. Average daytime temperatures are 30°C to 35°C, with some hotter days from mid May onwards. These months are still good for enjoying the beaches or exploring the desert and mountains, but there are fewer tourists than in the peak months.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: The United Arab Emirates’ official language is Arabic, but English is widely used, particularly in hotels, shops and tourist areas. A few words of Arabic can be a nice gesture and are usually well received by locals.

• Local habits and customs: The UAE is a Muslim country, so modest dress is advised in public places. Swimwear is fine for hotel beaches or pools, but in more traditional areas or when visiting religious sites, covered shoulders and knees are recommended at the minimum. If you visit during Ramadan, it’s a respectful and quieter time, but most tourist sites, restaurants and hotels remain operational with modified schedules.

• Currency: The currency in the UAE is the dirham (Dhs). ATMs are available in the city, and major credit and debit cards are widely accepted. However, cash is better in smaller shops and restaurants, and in the souks.

• Getting around: Taxis are the most convenient option for getting around the city, and prices are cheap. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are widely available as well. For intercity travel, there’s also a bus service connecting Ras Al Khaimah to all the neighbouring northern emirates and Dubai.

• Electricity and plug types: Ras Al Khaimah's electricity supply is 220/240v and uses British-style three-pin plugs, so no adaptor is needed for UK visitors.

• Time zone: Ras Al Khaimah is four hours ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah

Located in the far north of the UAE, the quiet emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, or RAK, is a paradise for adventurers, nature lovers and culture seekers alike. With the impressive Hajar Mountains visible from the city, in addition to desert and fertile areas just to the south, there's plenty of countryside to explore. Here’s a round-up of the top sights and attractions.

Day trips in the area

• Wadi Shawka: Just a short drive from the city, this wadi (dry valley) offers hiking and mountain-biking trails, seasonal pools and waterfalls, and a very rugged landscape. The area is perfect for walks, with trails suitable for all levels of hikers, and picnics.

• Khasab, Musandam: Located across the border in Oman, the Musandam Peninsula offers fjord-like landscapes where the scenery of the Hajar Mountains gets even more dramatic. From the port of Khasab, you can go on a dhow cruise for dolphin-spotting and checking out the scenery from the water.

• Dhayah Fort: This historic fort is perched on a hilltop north of RAK, providing panoramic views of palm groves and the Hajar Mountains. Climbing up may take some effort, but the views are worth it.

Activities for families in Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah is full of family-friendly attractions, making it a fantastic choice for holidays with children.

• Ras Al Khaimah National Museum: This museum showcases some of the emirate’s heritage, with artefacts, archaeological finds and insights into the traditional life of the region. The historic fort in which it’s housed is the highlight, with a traditional wind tower and an attractive courtyard.

• Beaches: Many of the beaches in RAK, including out of town at Al Rams and Al Jazirah Al Hamra, are free to access. They’re perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, just enjoying the ocean views or swimming in their calm waters. Al Hamra Beach, in particular, has a laid-back vibe and a scenic setting.

Free things to do in Ras Al Khaimah

For those looking to experience Ras Al Khaimah holidays without breaking the bank, there are plenty of free activities that let you enjoy the best of the emirate’s culture and nature.

• Hajar Mountains: This rugged range of mountains, just inland from RAK, has many options for hiking in an impressive natural landscape. Trails around Jebel Jais and Wadi Shawka are accessible without any fees, while the Jais Viewing Decks are free to visit and offer stunning scenery.

• Al Jazirat Al Hamra: This abandoned pearling village offers a unique look at traditional Emirati architecture and culture. It’s preserved as a heritage site and is a popular spot for history lovers and photographers, with houses, a fort and a mosque made from traditional methods and materials.

Wellness in Ras Al Khaimah

• Spas and thermal baths: For an indulgent experience, try one of the luxury hotel spas like the Waldorf Astoria Spa, which offers signature treatments in a tranquil setting overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Another top choice is the spa at The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert, where you can unwind with desert-inspired therapies in private pavilions from its location in a nature reserve.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Jebel Jais: As the highest peak in the UAE, Jebel Jais offers breathtaking mountain vistas from the viewing decks. It’s home to hiking routes for various fitness levels, the world’s longest zipline and the first commercial via ferrata in the Middle East. The drive up is also scenic, with plenty of lookout points to stop for photos.

• Desert safaris: The desert just outside RAK offers iconic experiences such as drives across the rolling sand dunes in 4WDs, camel rides or tours ending at sunset for a BBQ dinner and performances under the stars.

• Watersports: RAK’s coast is ideal for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding and jet-skiing. The calm waters make it accessible for beginners, and you’ll find paddleboards and kayaks for rent in several places. Adrenaline junkies can enjoy more thrilling options like parasailing.

Beaches to enjoy on Ras Al Khaimah holidays

Ras Al Khaimah holidays are perfect for beach lovers, offering a stunning stretch of Arabian Gulf coastline where golden sands meet calm, turquoise waters. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly relaxation, luxury beach clubs, or thrilling water sports, the beaches in Ras Al Khaimah provide the ideal seaside escape.

• Al Hamra Beach: Known for its tranquil atmosphere and soft golden sands, Al Hamra Beach is perfect for families and couples. The beach is lined with resorts, offering private access and facilities such as sun loungers, water sports, and beachside dining.

• Al Marjan Island: This man-made archipelago is home to some of Ras Al Khaimah’s most luxurious resorts and pristine beaches. Its calm waters and serene surroundings make it a great spot for relaxation, swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding.

• Flamingo Beach: A hidden gem, Flamingo Beach is a quieter spot where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Ras Al Khaimah’s coastline. Ideal for picnics or a peaceful day by the sea, this beach is popular among locals and those looking to escape the crowds.

• Beachfront water sports: For adventure seekers, Ras Al Khaimah’s beaches offer a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, kayaking, and parasailing. Many resorts also provide opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving to explore the vibrant marine life.

• Desert meets sea: Some beaches in Ras Al Khaimah offer a unique combination of desert backdrops and turquoise waters, making them perfect for photography and sunset lovers.

With their stunning natural beauty and excellent facilities, the beaches in Ras Al Khaimah promise a memorable experience, whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation. From the luxury of Al Marjan Island to the tranquillity of Flamingo Beach, Ras Al Khaimah’s coastline is a true highlight of any holiday.

Local dishes in Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah offers a chance to discover the delicious food of the Gulf. There are famous Middle Eastern dishes alongside fresh seafood and lesser-known Emirati specialities with their roots in traditional Bedouin cooking. Here’s a taste of what to try.

Some typical Emirati dishes

• Harees: A hearty dish, popular during Ramadan, combining meat – often chicken or lamb – slowly cooked with wheat and ghee until the grains are soft and it resembles porridge.

• Machboos: A rice dish, similar to biryani, often made with chicken, lamb or seafood, and flavoured with saffron, dried lime and various spices.

Meat and fish dishes

• Shuwa: A traditional meal across the Gulf, this is usually lamb that’s slow-cooked in a clay oven or underground until tender, and served with rice. For local families it's commonly eaten at special occasions or festivals, and is a must-try.

• Samak Mashwi: Local fish such as hammour (grouper) and safi (rabbitfish) are grilled with spices and served simply, allowing the fresh flavours to shine.

Street food

• Shawarma: A popular street food across the Middle East, Shawarma is cuts of spit-roasted chicken, lamb or beef wrapped in flatbread with fresh salad, pickles and garlic sauce.

• Falafel: Crunchy, deep-fried balls of chickpeas flavoured with herbs and spices, enjoyed either as they come or in wraps with salad and tahini sauce.

Local drinks

• Arabic coffee (kahwa): An essential part of Emirati culture, this intense coffee is flavoured with spices such as cardamom and served in small cups, usually alongside dates.

• Fruit juices: Popular at juice bars, cafés and local restaurants, the range of fresh juices includes orange, lemon and mint, or mixed cocktails.