There are so many things to do in Ras Al Khaimah. Hence, it is becoming a popular destination for expats due to the lower cost of living and the outdoorsy lifestyle in the cooler months.
Many visitors from other Emirates enjoy the popular destination on weekends as a getaway.
This post covers all the best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah, including places to stay and restaurant recommendations.
The rapidly growing Emirate has several large investment firms, hotel chains and property developers flocking to the region due to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qaisimi, more about Vision 2030 later.
Things To Do In RAK UAE
1. Jais Flight
The world’s longest zipline is one of the top things to do in RAK. Get an adrenaline rush on a zipline suspended 1680 meters above sea level.
It reaches top speeds of 160 Kmh as adventurers zip along the line for three minutes.
Soar through clouds, canyons and mountain ridges, it’s certainly a unique experience. Planning a trip to Jais Adventure Centre is pretty straightforward and the process from start to finish is seamless.
Book a spot online on the world’s longest zipline. Be aware that it is approximately a one-hour drive from Marjan Island, and the roads meander up the mountain.
Jais Street has breathtaking views along the way. Off-street parking is available next to the adventure centre with enough spaces before the big zip.
As you arrive at Jais Adventure Park, several facilities are available before check-in. They include washrooms, prayer rooms, showers and 1484 by Puro restaurant.
Enjoy coffee, beverages or a nice meal with breathtaking views at 1484 by Puro before or after the zip line experience.
Sahab Lounge is the highest shisha lounge in the country and makes for an epic relaxation spot afterwards.
Check-In and Safety Procedures
Upon check-in, a host will ask you to fill in some mandatory information and a disclaimer. There is a weight restriction of no less than 40 KG and no more than 150kg.
There is an option to hire a head camera for AED 135, which can face inward or outwards over the mountains. Next is the safety brief and equipment measurements.
The safety team play a short 3-minute safety video. Thereafter, they recap key points and provide an opportunity for questions.
Equipment is measured and a safety professional is assigned to each adventurer to apply a helmet, harness, backpack and safety sling.
Once everything is fitted correctly, a minibus takes adventurers to the zip line launch deck, a 5-minute drive up the mountain.
Take a phone for some wonderful photo opportunities in the mountains. The backpack can secure a few small belongings to the zip before taking off.
At the top of the mountain, a glass podium representing a falcon is the launch-off point. Safety instructors give a final safety brief and final checks of equipment. It may take 30 to 40 minutes before the last person’s turn.
The Flight
The instructor will clip you onto the zip line and ask you to get into a push-up position. The countdown begins and the zip along the 1-kilometer-long line begins.
The views are astonishing and the buzz is exhilarating before the second line. As for the second zipline, it’s more upright sitting traditional style, and a short ride over to the minibus.
Finally, the minibus returns to the Jais Adventure Centre. After returning the equipment, the receptionist will provide a QR code to download the camera footage. The QR code lasts 30 days.
Pricing: October to March: AED 360 for a weekday pass, AED 450 for a weekend pass. April, May, and September, AED 330 for weekday passes and AED 410 for weekend passes.
June to August, AED 300 for weekday passes and AED 360 for a weekend pass. 30% off for hoteliers and 25% off on Thursdays
Timings: 09:30 am to 16:30, Wednesday to Sunday.
2. Jais Sledder
The steel of Jais Sledder dissects the rocky ridges of the Hajar mountains. Jais sledder reaches a top speed of 40 km across 1840 meters of exhilarating twists and turns. Witness amazing views as the sledder works up and down the track.
The views of the Jais mountains and coastline are breathtaking. Jais Sledder is about a five-minute drive down the mountain from Jais Adventure Centre’s main building.
Across the road is some off-street parking. There is a stall that sells delicious sweet treats, teas and coffee. Picnic benches are available and there are some epic photo opportunities.
It is only possible to buy tickets oniste. Go for the single-ride option or a package of three tickets. Make sure unused tickets are retained as they can be used another time.
Jais sledder is ideal for families and parents with little ones who can team up in the same sled.
Before riding on one of the best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah with family, there is some important information to note.
Requirements
Children must be three years or older, over 105 cm tall and able to hold onto the front handle. Drivers must be at least ten years old and 138 cm tall to drive. A driver with a passenger must be twelve years old and 150cm tall.
The driver’s and passenger’s combined weight can not exceed 150kg. Drivers must be able to follow commands, operate the brake system, and recognise sledges in front.
Make sure not wear open-top shoes and loose-fitting clothes like scarves as they are not allowed.
It is impossible to bring a phone on the ride and there are no camera mounts or rentals. Rides are weather permitting, and it can close in bad weather conditions without notice.
Pricing: Adult single ride AED 50, Adult + Child single ride AED 65. Adult three rides AED 120, Adult+ Child three rides AED 140.
Timings: Tuesday to Thursday 11 am to 5 pm, Friday to Sunday 9 am to 5 pm. Mondays closed.
Phone: 97148157333
3. Bear Grylls Explorers Camp
International superstar Bear Grylls is most known for his crazy survival shows. The adventurer has extended his survival skills and techniques to instructors in the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah.
When it comes to things to do in Ras Al Khaimah, Bear Grylls Explorers Camp has to be one of the most adventurous. You will have the chance to learn survival skills in the desert mountains.
This a great family and team-building activity involving problem-solving with the thrill of adventure.
Get amongst exclusive challenges, hand-picked by Bear Grylls, which British armed forces have used over centuries. The experience is all-inclusive, with equipment, cabin accommodation, camp-style dinner and breakfast.
The camp includes rope courses, archery, hiking, abseiling and rock climbing.
A wide range of events at the camp caters to families, schools and corporations.
Courses
Primal survival course: An intense 24-hour do-or-die experience in Jebel Jais mountains. From the get-go, the objective of the mission is to survive.
The instructors have curated a high-pressure survival mission involving hunting for food, sourcing water, laying traps to catch animals, and navigating rugged terrain through the mountains, cliff faces and deserts. Learn core skills including firefighting, first aid, ropes and knots.
Every survival expert needs a kit, and the camp recommends ankle-supporting hiking boots, long hiking trousers, long-sleeve hiking tops, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, bug spray, a fleece top, personal medications, snacks and a wash bag.
Pricing: From AED 1200
Family primal survival course: Mums and dads can team up with their children for the perfect experience in the wilderness.
Families learn survival techniques such as how to build and light a fire, build a shelter, and abseil. Not to mention, they can also learn how to utilise a knife.
Requirements: At least one adult and child between 12 and 17 years old are required.
Pricing: From AED 1000
Essential Survival Course: In four hours, learn all the essential survival skills in an express camp. Learn how to protect yourself from animals in extreme weather conditions. Create rescue signs like ground fires or SOS signs.
Source and purify water. Build a fire and cook food to complete this magnificent 4-hour course.
Pricing: Adults from AED 450 and children from AED 325
Wild Survival Course
There are four key principles to survive the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah. The one day course has lots of activities packed into it.
- P is for protection, identifying threats from animals and humans and severe weather.
- R is for Rescue: Devise a plan for getting help when lost. Build and create SOS signs on the ground, make fires and be seen from the sky.
- W for Water: Learn how to locate water, which is essential for survival.
- F for Fire & Food: Learn how to cook, boil water and provide warmth by building a fire.
Pricing: Adults AED 800 & children AED 550
Adventurers are recognised upon course completion with a certificate, badge and neck tube. Each cabin has crockery, cutlery, chopping knives and a barbeque set.
For overnight stays, cabin check-in is at 3 pm, and cabin check-out is at 11 am.
Activties At Bear Grylls Explorer Camp
Climb the mountains with an alternative route. This adventure uses steel cables, cable bridges and highly suspended zip lines.
This is a dream for thrill seekers and rock climbers alike. Navigate through swinging Burma bridges and vertical climbing sections. The activity lasts three hours, and all safety equipment is provided. Athletic gear and closed-top trainers are recommended.
Requirements: Maximum weight is 130 kilos. Must be over 14 years of age and above 122 cm.
Pricing: AED 275
Ropes Course
The ropes course is not to be missed and guarantees an adrenaline rush. The obstacle maze is suspended 10 meters above the ground. It includes rope swings, wobbly bridges, swinging loops and much more.
Requirements: 8 years and above, max weight of 110 kg, minimum height of 122cm.
Pricing: AED 90
Abseiling and Climbing
Bears Grylls abseiling and climbing are among the best things to do at Ras Al Khaimah. Scale the mountain face of formed rock in the Al Hajar Peaks. There are various levels of abseiling, and instructors can coordinate an introductory level descent or an extreme level descent of 80 meters.
This activity is tailored to all levels, from beginner to professional. Allow 1.5 hours for the activity.
Recommendations: 8 years and above, minimum height 122cm, max weight 110kg
Pricing: AED65 – AED 90
Hiking
Trek along the region’s best hiking trail in high and low mountain routes. Six trails stretch across 16 km, each with its challenges. Rugged terrain, valleys dissecting through the mountains and deep chasms create a challenging route for avid hikers.
All safety equipment is included and the activity lasts 3 hours.
Recommendations: 8 years and above, minimum height 122 cm, max weight 130kg
Archery
Aim set and fire. Archery is a great activity and has stood the test of time. Grab the bow and arrow and go for the bullseye with determination. This is a great activity where friends and family can compete against each other in the highest mountain of the UAE.
All safety equipment is included and the activity lasts 30 minutes.
Recommendations: 8 years and above, minimum height 122cm
For all activities, no dresses or skirts, flip flops or loose footwear are allowed.
4 Action Flight Hot Air Baloon
Make the ascent in Ras Al Khaimah, the number one hot air balloon operator. You will have to wake up at dawn for this adventure. UAE is well known for its epic sunrises.
Plan for a total of 4 hours from pick up to drop off. Take a drive deep into the Wadi Desert, where the balloon awaits.
Enjoy a hot beverage while the ground team heats the balloon. It’s worth noting, the balloon can take up to 12 passengers and lasts about an hour.
There is beautiful desert terrain with many wild animals roaming beneath. The balloon begin its descent and land in a different location. A videographer is on hand capturing the tour.
Breakfast and Bird Show
After the flight, guests are taken for a bubbly gourmet breakfast with various continental and international options.
Sit in the outdoor Arabic Majlis and enjoy breakfast while looking out at the lush greenery of the golf course. The pilot gives the history of the first hot air balloon flight and describes where the word ‘pilot’ originates.
Check out the impressive bird of prey show after breakfast, hold tamed falcons, owls and hawks.
5. Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm
One of the top things to do in Ras Al Khaimah is visit Suwaidi Pearl Farm. The pearl farm helps visitors understand how Emiratis survived in previous centuries and provided for their families. The biggest driver of the UAE’s economy before the discovery of oil was pearl diving.
The founder, Abdulla Rashed Al Suwaidi, comes from a long lineage of pearl divers. He wanted to ensure that the story of pearl diving was not lost and would be passed on to future generations.
His grandfather was one of the last active pearl divers in the 1940s, and his stories inspired Abdulla to create the pearl farm.
Tours At Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm
Take a guided boat tour on a restored pearl diving vessel. The guide will explain aspects of culture, science and history surrounding pearl diving.
As the boat makes its way to the floating house of pearls, the Al Hajar mountain sets a stunning backdrop. Camels are often seen on the beach and with some luck, you may even see a turtle.
The guide provides information on pearl diving equipment, seasonal diving times, types of pearls and types of pearl diving boats.
Guests can pick their pearls directly from oysters on the pearl farm. Afterwards, listen to the guide explain the different types of pearls, their grades and how they have been traded over time.
The guide also showed us a pearl bracelet, there are only three in the world. The others were gifted to the late Sheikh Zayed and the Sultan of Oman.
Stand-up paddle boarding in the mangroves is an additional activity which is a nice way to end the day.
Book a trip to the pearl farm here.
Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday, 10 am to 17:30, Friday, 09:30 am to 18:00 hrs
Location: Al Rams- Ras Al Khaimah
6. Skywalker Yacht Rental
Head to the Marina in Al Hamra Village for a day out on a luxury chartered yacht. Renting a yacht is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in RAK. Recently the established company extended their fleet from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah.
Hop onboard for one of the best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah with family. Snacks, and soft beverages are provided. Guests can enquire about onboard catering or bring their own.
The trip glides along the stunning Arabian Gulf with a fantastic view of RAK in the distance.
The birdseye view of the ocean is beautiful from the upper deck. Listen to beats and chill with friends and family. There is an overhead canopy, ideal for sunny days.
Not to mention sun loungers, indoor lounge, cabins, a kitchenette and washrooms make it a comfortable day out.
Make sure to jump in for a swim near Marjan Island.
Location: Al Hamra Waterfront- Bern St-Al Hamra Village-Ras Al Khaimah-UAE
Book: 97145483302
Places To Stay in Ras Al Khaimah
1. Ritz Carlton Al Wadi Desert Villas
One of the most luxurious and exclusive hospitality experiences is the Ritz Carlton Al Wadi Desert Villas. If you are feeling tired from all the incredible things to do in Ras Al Khaimah, it’s the perfect place for respire and relaxation.
One bedroom villas are spacious and feature a large washroom, with his and hers sinks, a large bathtub, an overhead shower and a couch.
The bedroom has dark mahogany, Arabic decor Kaheela, high ceilings, and luxury bedding. Check out the ceilings, draped in a tent-like fabric, adding a luxury camping vibe.
These stunning villas have a private pool, approximately 4.5 feet deep and overlooks desert and lush greenery.
Other villa options include the Al Rimal Villa, which has an enclosed pool for maximum privacy. Al Khaimah’s tented pool villa is a fusion of a luxury tent and villa. Whilst Al Sahari’s secluded pool villa has a grand wooden deck with a pool that looks like a vast desert.
There are options to book with breakfast, lunch and dinner for all villa types.
Book a stay at The Ritz Carlton here.
Restaurants At Ritz Carlton Al Wadi Desert Villas
The farm-to-table concept features some of the best local produce. Enjoy locally sourced meat and fish.
Start with house-smoked salmon and quail egg, cucumber and dill labneh on sourdough bread for an amazing first course. The portion was plentiful and enough for two people.
Dry rub USADA prime brisket was an excellent main accompanied by white slaw, smoked BBQ sauce and spiced fries. We recommend roasted black sea bream, carrot, ginger puree, and edamame slaw for seafood lovers.
We went with a baked Alaska with mint chocolate chip ice cream, brownie and Italian meringue for dessert.
Other dining options at Ritz Carlton Al Wadi desert villas, such as the fusion tapas restaurant Moorish, bring North African and Andalucian flavours together.
Kaheela is one of the most talked about hotel breakfasts, as everything on offer is premium. There are many international breakfast options and you can order dishes to the table like eggs benedict. Kaheela is open for an international buffet at lunchtime as well.
During the cooler months, Moonlight Bar is the perfect place to sip on signature cocktails and watch unrivalled sunsets. Drinks and shisha go perfectly hand in hand at this premium location.
Kazam outdoor barbeque dinner is famous for dining by the dunes. Enjoy live barbeque grill stations, Arabic mezze, salads, beef, fish and lamb cooked underground.
The Rainforest
A rainforest in a desert sounds bizarre, but the Ritz Carlton has created the perfect sanctuary for those wanting to revitalise. Fusing Europen hydrothermal practices with Middle Eastern spa treatments creates a unique and wonderful experience.
Meander through 16 stations, plunge pools, steam rooms, therapy baths and lounges to fully disconnect.
Meander through the carefully planned stations and follow the map. Cool off in the ice igloo or shower after a warm station so the benefits of hot and cold therapy can be reaped.
Enjoy facials, massages and body therapies to get the whole feeling of rejuvenation. Ladies-only timings and private sessions are available.
All visits to the spa require a reservation ahead of time, and guests must be 16 years old or above.
Activities at Ritz Carlton Al Wadi Desert Villas
Immerse in the outdoor wonders of Al Wadi Nature Reserve and witness the breathtaking desert. Experienced guides make a trip to the Al Wadi desert one to remember with fun activities such as falconry, fishing, desert biking, horseback riding and star gazing.
Head to the equestrian centre for horse riding. There are lessons for all ages and abilities, including children. Opt for private or group lessons.
Falcon and owl shows are daily at the Falconry. Get up close with these magnificent birds and learn about the Bedouin culture.
Get the zen feeling with yoga experiences amidst the desert. Prices range of yoga classes for AED 150 per person. Hatha, vinyasa and yin yoga are on the offer.
Location: Al Mazraa Wadi Khadija- Al Ashish- Ras Al Khaimah
Book a stay at The Ritz Carlton here.
2. Intercontinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort and Spa
Escape to serenity at Intercontinentals luxury beach resort in Ras Al Khaimah. The resort has a tranquil atmosphere, white sands and superb hospitality.
This 351-room hotel faces the Arabian Gulf and has hotel rooms or private pool villas, not to mention the Club Intercontinental experience.
Half-board and all-inclusive options are available at the resort. There are also day for the gym, beach, pool and recreational activities.
Spa Intercontinental offers a range of signature treatments, massages, facials and express 30-minute treatments.
There is a kids’ club comes complete with activities up to teenage years. For adults, tennis courts and watersports such as jet skiing, stand-up paddle boards and kayaking are available.
Book a stay at Intercontinentals luxury beach resort in Ras Al Khaimah.
Restaurants At Intercontinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort and Spa
Dine at any of the four restaurants, enjoy the shisha lounge or wind down with a beverage at the Library Bar.
Recharge at Ramsa with coffee and all-day dining options. We enjoyed sitting by the floor-to-ceiling windows and looking out on the Arabian Gulf.
Levant & Nar is one of the best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah at night. The outdoor terrace is a romantic dining setting next to the cool sea breeze in the winter.
It’s lovely to see the open kitchen with chefs preparing fresh manakeesh and other fresh Arabic bread favourites.
The fine dining restaurant has mosaic pillars, spectacular ceiling light features and wide-open French doors onto the Arabian Gulf.
As our stay was half board, the dining experience was chef selection. This was the perfect option to create a sharing experience.
Don’t blink as the table will quickly fill with mezze dishes such as hummus, mutabal, patlican and mercimek kofte.
Hot mezze like pacanga boregi, seafood kibbeh manti, chicken liver and batata harra was accompanied by fresh tabouleh and fatoush salads.
Sucuk pide with Turkish beef sausage and cheese straight out of the oven was delicious. Mix grill was a great option for tasting various succulent meats and poultry.
Round off the evening with Turkish tea and baklava. Shisha is available on the outdoor terrace for the ultimate chill vibes.
More Restaurants, Bars and Lounges
Head to Intercontinental’s upmarket New York-themed restaurant called Noho Bar & Grill. The contemporary interior teleports guests to the metropolitan city.
Gastro dishes, cocktails, global wines and craft beers make up the menu at this relaxed restaurant.
We ordered sea bass stuffed with spinach, mashed potato, and saffron butter sauce. The fillet was generous and perfectly cooked and comes highly recommended for seafood lovers.
Saffar is an all-day dining concept with international dishes, buffet selection and live cooking stations. Head to Saffar for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Shasha has a shisha lounge tucked away by the poolside. Go to this perfect location to kick back, relax and have some sundowner drinks with chilled house music playing in the background.
Head to Amarbar, tucked away in the lobby. Serving wines, cocktails, and other beverages alongside bar snacks makes it the perfect place to catch up with friends.
Intercontinental Club Experience
Guests who opt for the Intercontinental club experience can enjoy the club lounge. The club lounge has a private pool for adults and a premium lounge with indoor and outdoor options.
There is a schedule for club lounge guests to enjoy complimentary benefits throughout the day. Grab breakfast in the morning and afternoon tea between 14:30 and 16:30. At 17:30 is the cocktail hour, where guests quench their thirst in the luxury lounge.
Throughout the day, drinks a la carte menu is available for purchase. Overall, we highly recommend a stay at this luxury resort to relax and rejuvenate.
Location: Hayat Island-Mina Al Arab-Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Phone: 97172026666
RAK Vision 2030
Branded as the RAK Vision 2030 the Emirate is developing a prosperous economy, a cohesive community with sustainability at the forefront. One major milestone to achieve is 2.9 million visitors to Ras Al Khaimah and 15,000 hotel rooms.
As a result of the vision, cultural sites are more accessible, unrivalled luxury resort stays are popping and unforgettable outdoor adventure activities can be experienced.
Restaurants, cafes and beach clubs are constantly coming to the market.
The northern Emirate is rich in nature reserves and certification as the first sustainable destination in the Middle East, which coincides with its lush greenery, white sandy coastline, and rocky mountains.
In 2023, Ras Al Khaimah received a silver certification from the Earth Checks sustainable destinations program.
Visit the outdoor adventure capital of the UAE with the longest zipline in the world, mountain sledders, camping destinations, Bear Grylls camp, top fishing spots, golf courses and much more.
Ras Al Khaimah is largely pet-friendly which makes it different from other Emirates.
There is no doubt that Ras Al Khaimah is a growing destination that will continue to prosper in line with the RAK Vision 2030. There is no shortage of things to do in Ras Al Khaimah, and we are excited to add the latest additions to this list continuously.