Top things to do in Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah packs mountains, beaches, desert and heritage into a compact emirate.
- Jebel Jais — The UAE’s highest mountain, with a scenic road, viewing decks, hiking trails and one of the world’s longest ziplines.
- Dhayah Fort — A hilltop fort with sweeping views over date palms, mountains and the sea.
- National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah — Housed in a historic fort in the old town, covering archaeology, pearling and local traditions.
- Al Jazirat Al Hamra — An abandoned coastal pearling village with coral-stone houses, mosques and a fort.
- Beaches and Al Marjan Island — Long stretches of sand lined with resorts, ideal for swimming and water sports.
- Mangroves — Kayak through calm mangrove channels near the city, home to birdlife.
- Desert experiences — Dune drives, camel rides and sunset camps in the red sands inland.
Best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah has a hot desert climate. The best time to visit is from November to March, when days are warm and sunny, evenings are pleasant and the sea is comfortable for swimming. It is the ideal season for hiking in the mountains and desert excursions. On Jebel Jais, temperatures are noticeably cooler than on the coast, and winter nights at the summit can be chilly.
From May to September, heat and humidity are intense, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C; this is a quieter season when resorts may offer indoor activities. Spring and autumn shoulder months can be good compromises.
Getting from the airport
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport lies south-east of the city, roughly 20 km from the centre, and around the same distance or further from the main beach resorts, depending on location.
Taxis are available at the terminal, and many hotels and resorts offer transfers. Car hire is a convenient way to explore the emirate, including Jebel Jais. Many visitors also arrive via Dubai’s airports, about an hour or more away by road, depending on traffic.
Where to stay
Most visitors stay at beach resorts, with a few options in the city itself.
- Al Marjan Island — Man-made islands with large beach resorts, suiting families and couples.
- Al Hamra — A resort area with a marina, golf course and beachfront hotels.
- Mina Al Arab — A quieter coastal development with resorts near lagoons and mangroves.
- Ras Al Khaimah city — The old town and central areas, handy for museums, souqs and budget stays.
Travel tips
- Money: Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; carry some dirhams for small shops and souqs.
- Getting around: Public transport is limited, so taxis, hotel shuttles or a hire car are the easiest options.
- Dress and etiquette: Swimwear is fine at resorts and beaches, but dress modestly in towns, malls and heritage sites.
- Mountain safety: On Jebel Jais, carry water, drive carefully on the winding road and bring a warm layer in winter.
- Ramadan: During Ramadan, be respectful by not eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Ras Al Khaimah?
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT), roughly 20 km south-east of the city centre.
How do I get from the airport to the resorts?
Taxis, hotel transfers and hire cars are the main options. Journey times depend on where your resort is located.
What currency is used in Ras Al Khaimah?
The UAE dirham (AED). Cards are widely accepted.
Do I need a visa to visit the United Arab Emirates?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before you travel.
When is the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah?
November to March, when the weather is warm and sunny rather than extremely hot.
What is there to do on Jebel Jais?
Jebel Jais offers scenic mountain drives, viewpoints, hiking trails, adventure activities such as a very long zipline, and cooler temperatures than the coast.
Updated:
