Ras Al Khaimah’s incredible location between the Arabian Gulf and the Hajar Mountains makes it the perfect getaway for any type of traveler. Its gorgeous beaches make it an excellent choice for thalassophiles or beach aficionados.
Its beautiful mountains, hiking trails, deserts, and adventure hubs also attract hundreds of adventure seekers and nature lovers. Ras Al Khaimah’s villages and oasis camp make it a great destination for cultural travelers, too.
If you’re thinking of taking a day trip from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah, you can enjoy the perfect getaway regardless of the type of traveler you are and the experience you’re seeking. With a mix of cultural heritage, luxurious hotels and resorts, and outdoor activities, Ras Al Khaimah has something for everyone. Here are some must-do activities for Ras Al Khaimah visitors.
Must-Do Activities for First Time Ras Al Khaimah Visitors
If you’re planning a day trip to Ras Al Khaimah, make sure these activities are on your itinerary to have a fun, unforgettable first time visit here:
1. Soar over mountainous terrains aboard the world’s longer zipline.
Ras Al Khaimah is home to Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline. It’s 2,830 meters (2.83 kilometers) long and 1,680 meters (1.68 kilometers) above the Arabian Gulf. Located atop Jebel Jais, the ride takes you through jagged peaks, deep ravines, and picturesque canyons. The sky-high adventure lasts three minutes, clocking speeds between 120 and 150 kmph.
This adrenaline-pumping adventure lets you soar over stunning mountain scenery at incredible speeds. You’ll feel the excitement build up as you’re strapped into the harness and suspended hundreds of feet above the ground. Once you launch off the platform, you’ll feel the rush of wind and exhilaration as you go down the zipline.
Jais Flight allows you to experience one of the most thrilling rides in the world while giving you a unique chance to take in breathtaking views of the Hajar Mountains.
2. Go on an adrenalin-pumping toboggan ride.
If you’ve always wanted to try tobogganing, you can do so at Ras Al Khaimah’s Jais Sledder.
The Jais Sledder is part of the Jebel Jais adventure park. It’s a tobogganing track spanning 1,885 meters (1.885 kilometers), stretching along the Hajar mountain range. It offers the excitement of a roller coaster ride and stunning views of the mountain at the same time.
The Jais Sledder lets you enjoy an eight-minute toboggan ride that navigates the mountainside. It features sharp curves and turns and can reach speeds of up to 40 kph, making it a truly exciting experience.
You can control the sled’s speed so you can go slower if the ride becomes too fast and when you want to take in the gorgeous mountain views.
3. Go hiking through a seasonal river bed.
Ras Al Khaimah is known for its hiking spots. As a first-time visitor, Wadi Shawka is the best place to go to if you want to explore the outdoors during your getaway.
Wadi Shawka is a scenic spot located in the Hajar Mountains. It boasts a seasonal riverbed known as a “wadi.”
Wadi Shawka is an excellent hiking trail suitable for both beginners and seasoned hikers. It has various routes that take you through rocky terrain, shallow water crossings, and lush greenery, especially after the rains.
During the trek, you’ll encounter natural pools, mountain views, and even a few grazing goats. The peaceful environment and stunning landscapes make it the perfect place to disconnect and enjoy nature.
With its beautiful blend of desert and mountain scenery, Wadi Shawka provides a refreshing, natural escape for anyone seeking a unique outdoor activity in Ras Al Khaimah.
4. Join a pearl farm tour.
Pearl fishing is an important part of the United Arab Emirates’ history and culture. Learn more about it at the Suwaidi Pearl Farm.
The Suwaidi Pearl Farm celebrates the fascinating history of pearl fishing in Ras Al Khaimah. It’s located in Al Rams, a neighborhood in the northern part of the city.
When you sign up for the Suwaidi Pearl Farm Tour, you’ll board a traditional pearl fishing boat and start your journey at the original fishing village in Al Rams. Throughout the voyage, a guide will discuss important information about the area, including the mangroves, and the diving techniques and tools the fishermen used.
You and your fellow visitors will also learn about the latest innovative techniques used in modern-day pearl farming. You’ll also explore The Suwaidi Pearl farmhouse, which is located on a floating pontoon.
At the end of the tour, you can open your oyster to see if you’re lucky enough to get an Arabian pearl you can take home. If you didn’t get one, you can drop by the gift shop to buy one and other souvenirs to remind you of this fun and informative tour.
5. Enjoy a beach day.
If spending a day at the beach is your idea of a fun and relaxing getaway to Ras Al Khaimah, you won’t be disappointed by the choices in this emirate.
The emirate has several private and public beaches boasting clear blue waters and incredible soft sand. They have facilities that allow beachgoers to lay back and relax, as well as amenities and areas where you can engage in various water sports and activities.
Some of Ras Al Khaimah’s most popular beaches are:
- Flamingo Beach
- RAK Beach
- Ras Al Khaimah Public Beach
- Shaam Beach
- Banan Beach
- Julan Beach
Regardless of which one you choose, you’ll definitely have a great, memorable beach day in Ras Al Khaimah.
6. Experience traditional Bedouin living.
A visit to Ras Al Khaimah won’t be complete without exploring the desert. You can do this in a laidback way when you go to the Bedouin Oasis Camp.
The Bedouin Oasis Camp, which is nestled in the heart of the desert, offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the nomadic Bedouin tribes. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with the warm hospitality the Bedouins are known for.
While here, you can unwind in cozy tents and enjoy a traditional Emirati dinner under the stars. You can also take part in fun desert activities, such as dune buggy riding, camel riding, quad biking, and sandboarding.
Once all the festivities are done at night, you and your fellow guests gather around the campfire for a cup of Arabic coffee and listen to stories from local guides. You’ll also be treated to belly dancing and folkloric tanoura performances, which will leave you captivated.
The peaceful desert surroundings, picturesque rolling dunes, and stunning star-filled sky create a magical atmosphere that will give you an unforgettable cultural experience.
With a diverse array of experiences and several top-rated Ras Al Khaimah hotels to choose from, you’ll surely come back to this emirate for your next getaway or a longer vacation.
You May Also Like
- Abu Dhabi in Winter: 4 Must-Try Activities for an Unforgettable Trip
- 5 Great Ways to Spend a Weekend in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- The Yas Island Explorer’s Guide: Top 5 Award-Winning Attractions
- Dubai Visa For Qatar Residents: Step By Step Guide
- Driving In UAE With Qatar License: Things To Know
- Non-obvious Ideas About Dubai Real Estate