Ras al Khaimah Holidays 2012

Ras al Khaimah at a Glance

The rising star of the Emirates, Ras al Khaimah or RAK as it is more often referred to, is something of an overlooked destination. Tucked between the magnificent Hajar Mountains and the Persian Gulf, the UAE’s northernmost and most fertile emirate is often frequented by tourist’s en-route to Oman’s spectacularly beautiful Musandam Peninsula. However, RAF has a certain innate charm of its own. Steeped in history and home to pristine and relatively development-free beaches – this is an excellent base to kick back and indulge in the sunshine and for the more energetic sample some water and sand sports.

You'll Love Ras al Khaimah if...

  • You want to experience the sun-soaked Arabian Peninsular away from the relatively over saturated Dubai, which is just a 50 minute drive away.
  • You are seeking an authentic Arabic destination.
  • You are in search deserted white beaches, lapped by calm blue seas, or seeking wildlife conservation areas and sanctuaries.

Top Attractions in Ras al Khaimah

  • The old town boasts a number of mosques and museums as well as traditional souks and cafes where you can get a glimpse of traditional Arabia. A great opportunity to see both traditional and modern shops as well as artisan’s workshops.
  • Dhayah Fort is the only surviving fort in the UAE where a wealth of history. Artefacts and art are found at the National Museum, ensconced in the former palace of the ruling al Qawasim family.
  • The stony ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s Palace or “Hisn Shimmel” are believed to have been part of a large fortified hill settlement that existed from the 14th to the 19th Century. From the top of the hill there is a beautiful view towards Ras al Khaimah and the sea beyond, while right behind you the Hajjar mountains ascend majestically upwards.
  • Jazirat al-Hamra, or the Red Island known as the ghost town by some and a crumbling piece of history by others. The story goes that this town was haunted, which is the reason why it was abandoned, and has remained uninhabited and neglected since 1968. Offers insights into the extraordinary Islamic architecture.

Ras al Khaimah Highlights

  • The old quarter is bristling with shops selling local and designer goods, tax free too as there is no sales tax on goods bought within the UAE. The bustling souqs, 'market', combine a mixture of artisan workshops and a mix of modern shops and are always game for barter.
  • The local Shawarna fare, consisting of a mixed grill of meats with grain and vegetables, spice is well priced and utterly delicious. This also applies to the many chicken stands, whose chicken is eaten with Khubz bread, hummus and relishes, and is good as anything you’d eat in a 5-star hotel.
  • A popular three-week festival is held each December or January in the heritage village of Al Awafi, with the highlight being the exhilarating sand dune rides by 4x4, which can be undertaken year around.

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