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Emirate and one of the constituents of the United Arab Emirates
Photo: wilhelmtittes, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Ras al Khaimah is the most northern of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, and borders the Omani exclave Musandam. Ras al Khaimah, colloquially known as RAK, is commonly referred to as the adventure hub of the United Arab Emirates and the Arabian peninsula, with various activities such as the longest zip-line in the world, kayaking, water skiing, Go Karting, golfing, mountain climbing and multiple mountain hiking trails available in the emirate making the emirate a common destination for adventurists. Ras al Khaimah offers a different experience than the other emirates due to its mountains and different landscape, as well as having a large number of ancient archaeological sites, forts, and buildings.
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the RAK National Museum is situated in Al Hisn Fort. It presents the history and culture of Ras al Khaimah.
the highest peak in the UAE, at 1,934m, and is home to the world's longest zipline
the best-preserved fishermen village in the UAE
Shimal Fort
Shimal Fort, known locally as 'Sheba's Palace', the remains of an Islamic era fortification.
the UAE’s only remaining hilltop fort, dating back to the Bronze Age. The fort was a last point of defence against the British who attacked Ras al Khaimah in the 19th century. The village of Dhayah has remains of old tombs and settlements.
Th main attractions include famous Stairway to Heaven track, ancient tomb, heritage village and fishermen houses.
A town near the border with Musandam. It is worth to visit for its interesting old wadi settlements, rock engravings and small harbour.
One of the picturesque wadis in the UAE. It has remains of old settlements, graveyards and breath taking scenery. In one of the tributary wadis, the Jebel al Jais Mountain Resort is constructed.
Al Fulayyah
An 18th-century fort, and old summer residence of the sheiks of Ras al Khaimah. The General Treaty of Peace between the British and the local sheiks was signed there.
An oasis with thermal waters and numerous archaeological sites.
a district with numerous small shops. Because, numerous of these shops sell Indian products and there is a large Indian community living in this area, Al Nakheel is called by some a small India.
interesting cultural experience and a chance to see a local sea life.
situated under the RAK Bridge, the market is a colourful place although most of the products are not locally produced
By rail
There is no railway system in Ras al Khaimah yet, however a national railway system called Etihad Rail is under development and will connect all the emirates of the UAE.
By car
RAK has good road connections with all the other emirates.
By bus
The RAK Transport Authority runs buses to Dubai (Union Bus Station), Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al Quwain, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain; they also have limited services to Global Village and Dubai Mall.
By boat
There are no passenger boat carriers operating directly to Ras al Khaimah.
By bus
In February 2026 there are four local bus lines. One from Al Nakheel to Jazeera, that covers the main road parallel to the beach.
On foot
Walking around Ras al Khaimah is not easy due to the traffic, lack of sidewalks and zebra crossings and it is something not done and not recommended.
By taxi
Taxis are an easy option to move around the emirate. RAKTA licensed taxis use set-fare meters, are reasonable priced and safe. You can find out current charges on the RAKTA page on taxis.
By car
Car rental is easily available option. Most of the roads in Ras al Khaimah are in good condition and it is easy to find the way around (at least in the city).
By tour operator
A few tour operators (mainly in the international hotels) organize Ras al Khaimah city tours. Most of the big hotels provide buses for their guests to the RAK Old City and shopping malls.
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Ras Al Khaimah · International · RKT
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