The UAE’s Best Kept Secret: Ras Al Khaimah Travel Guide

Tucked away on the northern tip of the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah is perhaps the Middle East's best-kept secret.

But, with its laid-back pace, a captivating mountain landscape, golden coastline and selection of world-class resorts, including overwater villas that rival the worlds best, it might also be your new favourite Emirate.

Want to know more? Our Ras Al Khaimah travel guide covers everything you need to know, including when to go, the best things to do and the most luxurious places to stay to make the most of it.

"Ras Al Khaimah is perfect for adventurers, culture-lovers and relaxation. Far removed from the bustle of the busier Emirates, it's a side of the UAE you might not know - and one I highly recommend experiencing." - Emily, Product Manager

Where is Ras Al Khaimah?

It may be more under-the-radar than some of its better-known Emirate neighbours, but that doesn't mean Ras Al Khaimah is difficult to get to.

Set just a 45-minute drive from Dubai, and about 2 hours and 45 minutes from Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah's location makes it easy to pair with some of the UAE's other top spots, or even with the rustic beauty of Oman.

When's the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah?

Ras Al Khaimah has a desert climate similar to that of the rest of the UAE, though perhaps a little cooler than the likes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The weather and temperatures over winter and early spring make for the perfect half-term or Christmas break for families, while the quieter shoulder seasons are tempting for couples looking for some peace and quiet.

• November – March (Peak Season): The best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah, with pleasant temperatures (around 22–28°C). Ideal for beach holidays, hiking, and cultural events. A popular winter sun escape.
• April – May & September – October (Shoulder Season): Warm but not extreme. Great for hiking and sightseeing without peak-season crowds. Why not visit over Easter?
• June – August (Low Season): Hot (35–40°C+), but excellent value for a summer break. Perfect if you want to relax at your resort and make the most of the spas.

"Looking for a new way to spend your winter sun holiday? Or a new adventure for the school holidays? Ras Al Khaimah has plenty to offer." - Emily, Product Manager.

Why is Ras Al Khaimah worth visiting?

So, what sets Ras Al Khaimah apart for a luxury holiday?

Framed by the rugged Hajar Mountains and hemmed by golden beaches, Ras Al Khaimah may surprise you with its understated, unspoilt beauty. Inland, the rolling desert dunes not only create a sense of Arabian romance - they offer ample opportunity for adventure, from quad biking to traditional camel treks and even the Guinness-certified world's longest zipline.

The 'nature emirate' isn't just about going off-grid, though. You may be surprised at its trove of high-end luxury resorts, some offering seriously impressive spas and wellness programmes. Some resorts even rival the Maldives with their sumptuous overwater villas, while the sprawling mountain views can easily contend with those of nearby Oman.

So, if you've already visited the likes of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman, Ras Al Khaimah might be deserving of a place on your travel wishlist.

See some more reasons why you should visit Ras Al Khaimah below.

1. The stunning scenery

This emirate’s landscapes are among the most varied in the UAE.

The rugged Hajar Mountains carve through the region, with the country’s highest peak, Jebel Jais, offering winding mountain roads, hiking trails, and one of the world’s most dramatic viewpoints.

Below, there are miles of scenic coastline, meaning you can hike in the morning, relax on the beach in the afternoon, and enjoy inky starlit skies in the desert by evening.

2. The choice of luxury resorts

Ras Al Khaimah is fast becoming known for its high-end resorts, including the region’s first overwater villas at Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah.

Surrounded by mangroves and lagoons, this resort feels like a slice of the Maldives, but within a short transfer of Dubai. Luxury here is quieter, with more focus on space, natural surroundings, and wellbeing - spend your days kayaking through the waterways to spot flamingos or paddleboarding across the lagoons for a afternoon of tranquillity.

When you're feeling hungry, you'll be treated to some excellent options, too. Keep it laidback with dishes hot off the grill at Beach House, or savour flavours from across Southeast Asia, Thailand, Vietnam and China at Mekong. If you're celebrating something special, opt for private toes-in-the-sand dining by candlelight.

3. The off-grid adventures

The rolling dunes and sprawling sands are perfect for those with a sense of adventure. Ras Al Khaimah gets enough rainfall during winter for desert vegetation to thrive, and you might be able to spot wildlife such as oryx and desert foxes. Roam the landscape by camel or horseback, stopping to gather around the campfire for nomadic stories, or up the adrenaline with dune bashing and sandboarding.

Set in the desert, the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert offers a luxurious way to be immersed in this romantic setting. Surrounded by a 1,200-acre nature reserve, it combines luxury villa living with unique Arabian experiences; try falconry, go horse riding or take guided nature drives to spot gazelles.

Come evening, you can dine under the stars or enjoy a sundowner on the sand dunes, making for one of the most atmospheric desert stays in the UAE.

4. The pristine beaches

With 68km of coastline, Ras Al Khaimah has some of the UAE’s most inviting beaches.

Resorts like Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort are set along long stretches of golden sand, perfect for families looking for safe swimming and watersports, or couples seeking quiet corners to unwind.

The atmosphere here is noticeably more relaxed than Dubai’s city beaches, and are far removed from the bustle. Whether you prefer jet-skiing, paddleboarding, or simply reading by the water, the beaches provide the perfect setting for a sun-and-sea escape.

5. The sumptuous spas

Ras Al Khaimah also excels when it comes to wellness. The Emirate’s luxury resorts are home to some of the best spas in the UAE, including the hydrotherapy spa at The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert, the Clarins treatments at Sofitel Al Hamra, and Thai-inspired therapies at Anantara Mina Al Arab.

Many of the spas offer tailored wellness programmes, combining treatments with yoga, fitness, and nutrition, as well as couples’ rituals and hammam experiences. Expect Arabia-inspired touches, with ingredients such as dates and honey bringing indulgent aromas to massages and facials.

"Ras Al Khaimah has a trove of cultural treasures and historical sites, alongside its stunning scenery. Delve in and you'll come away feeling equally enriched and refreshed." - Emily, Product Manager

Things to Do in Ras Al Khaimah

With such a varied landscape and authentic culture, it's no surprise that Ras Al Khaimah offers some unique experiences for your holiday.

See some of the best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah below.

The world's longest zipline

For thrill-seekers, nothing beats the world’s longest zipline. Suspended 1,680m above sea level on Jebel Jais, the Jais Flight covers nearly 3km, sending you soaring over rugged peaks and valleys at speeds of up to 150 km/h.

It’s a true bucket-list experience, and the most exciting way to admire the breathtaking mountain views.

Personalised hiking routes

The Hajar Mountains are made for exploration, and guided hikes can be tailored to your pace and interests.

Trails take you through wadis shaded by palm groves, past hidden pools and natural springs, or up to panoramic viewpoints over jagged cliffs. Along the way, expert guides share insights into the geology, flora, and history of the region.

Hot air balloon flights

One of the most memorable ways to see Ras Al Khaimah is from the air. At sunrise, climb into a hot air balloon and drift over the golden desert as the landscape glows with soft morning light. 

After landing, enjoy a gourmet breakfast in the dunes, making for a peaceful yet indulgent way to start the day.

Nature drives in the Al Wadi Desert

Inside the Ritz-Carlton’s private reserve, a nature drive offers a chance to encounter Arabian wildlife in its natural habitat.

Spot herds of oryx and gazelle, watch desert foxes dart across the sand, and learn about the fragile desert ecosystem from knowledgeable guides. The experience can be timed to catch the changing light of sunrise or sunset, when the desert is at its most beautiful.

Sonara Camp Al Wadi

For a dining experience like no other, Sonara Camp brings together gourmet cuisine and Arabian wilderness.

Set within the Al Wadi reserve, the camp offers a choice of experiences, from sunset appetisers with a falconry show to multi-course dinners under the stars. Activities range from camel rides and sandboarding to live entertainment, all with the backdrop of roaming gazelle and oryx.

Suwaidi Pearls

Discover Ras Al Khaimah’s connection to the region’s oldest industry at Suwaidi Pearls Farm. This hands-on cultural experience begins with a traditional dhow boat ride into the mangroves, where you’ll learn about oyster cultivation and pearl diving techniques that have been passed down for generations.

You can even open an oyster yourself, with the chance to uncover a pearl to keep.

Heritage & History

Ras Al Khaimah offers a window into the UAE’s past. Visit the National Museum, housed in a centuries-old fort, to explore artefacts spanning 7,000 years.

Wander the abandoned coral-stone houses of Al Jazirah Al Hamra, a preserved “ghost village,” or explore traditional souks for a glimpse of Emirati life. Together with the emirate’s pearl-diving heritage, these sites highlight Ras Al Khaimah’s authentic cultural roots.

"Don't forget, you can easily combine your time here with another Emirate - our Ras Al Khaimah & Dubai twin-centre holiday is the perfect way to do this." - Emily, Product Manager

Where to Stay in Ras Al Khaimah

Deciding where to stay in Ras Al Khaimah depends on the type of holiday you’re looking for.

From overwater villas to desert sanctuaries and family-friendly beachfronts, these three luxury hotels are our experts' recommendations for your Ras Al Khaimah escape.

"It may be surrounded by desert and mountains, but that doesn't mean that Ras Al Khaimah lacks in luxury. These resorts have everything you need for an indulgent break in the sun." - Emily, Product Manager

Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort

Best for: Spa and wellness seekers, overwater luxury.

If you’ve ever dreamed of the Maldives but want to stay closer to home, Anantara Mina Al Arab delivers.

This resort introduces the UAE’s first overwater villas, giving you the chance to wake up surrounded by tranquil lagoons and mangroves, while the desert and mountains await beyond.

Inside, the design blends Thai-inspired elegance with Arabian touches, while private pools and spacious terraces make the villas perfect for couples or honeymooners. Kids are welcome too though, with a children's swimming pool, menu and extra amenities available, plus a host of activities such as volleyball and football.

The resort’s spa is a standout, offering Thai wellness traditions alongside Arabian therapies. Beyond the treatment rooms, you can kayak through mangroves, try a cooking class or simply relax in serene seclusion.

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

Best for: Couples and families seeking a desert 'glamping' experience with a sense of adventure.

Set within a 1,200-acre nature reserve, The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert is one of the UAE’s most immersive stays. Each villa comes with a private pool overlooking the dunes; with the Al Hajar Mountains in the distance, you'll certainly feel connected to the region's Bedouin heritage.

Activities range from falconry, archery and horse riding to guided nature drives, while evenings can be spent dining under the twinkling desert sky - enjoy a private barbecue hosted by your personal chef and butler, followed by serene stargazing. 

As a guest of the resort, you'll also have access to the pool and beach at Al Hamra, which is just a 15-minute shuttle journey away, plus there's an 18-hole golf course within easy reach.

The resort’s Rainforest spa is another highlight. Spanning 3,000 sq m, the Asian-inspired hydrotherapy facilities are heaven for wellness lovers.

Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort

Best for: Families and beach lovers

For those who prefer the coast, Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort offers a laid-back yet stylish stay along Ras Al Khaimah’s golden shoreline. Opt for a suite with a private plunge pool to make the most of every sun-kissed moment.

Families are well catered for, with spacious rooms, children’s pools, and a kids’ club. The resort is also home to Ras Al Khaimah's largest swimming pool, with three further pools also available to ensure space for everyone.

Adults can enjoy watersports, beach yoga, and indulgent Clarins spa treatments. When it comes to dining, you can enjoy everything from harissa roasts to sweet Arabian desserts and premium whiskeys. With Jebel Jais, Al Hamra golf course and the Arabian Gulf all within easy reach, this hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Ras Al Khaimah.

Plan your tailor-made holiday to Ras Al Khaimah

Tempted by Ras Al Khaimah's luxury holiday offering? Speak to our Travel Specialists to start planning your bespoke escape, with any experiences or activities arranged for you.