Ras Al Khaimah Jebel Jais mountains dramatic landscape

Things To Do in Ras Al Khaimah

UAE's Highest Peak World's Longest Zipline 1hr from Dubai
From Dubai
~100 km (1 hour)
Jebel Jais
1,934m — UAE's highest
Jais Flight
AED 799 (world's longest)
Best For
Adventure + Heritage
Alcohol
Available in hotels
Opening 2026
Wynn Al Marjan Resort

Why Ras Al Khaimah Deserves More of Your Time

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) sits just one hour north of Dubai yet feels entirely different — dramatic Hajar Mountain peaks, a rugged coast, ancient forts, and a relaxed pace that stands in complete contrast to the city's urgency. It's the UAE's adventure emirate, home to the highest mountain, the world's longest zipline, and a growing reputation as the country's most exciting new destination.

RAK is also the UAE's fastest-growing tourism story. With the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort (the region's first casino resort) scheduled to open in 2026, international attention is turning northward. Visit now for the authentic experience before the crowds discover it.

Top Attractions in Ras Al Khaimah

FREE DRIVE
UAE Highest Peak

Jebel Jais Mountain Drive

At 1,934m, Jebel Jais is the highest peak in the UAE. The drive to the summit on a winding mountain road is completely free, open daily from 7am to 8pm (extended in summer), and rewards you with extraordinary views over the Hajar range and down to the coast. The road is as spectacular as the destination.

AED 799
World Record

Jais Flight Zipline

The world's longest zipline at 2.83 km, reaching speeds of 120 km/h across the Jebel Jais mountain range. An absolute bucket-list experience — book well in advance as it regularly sells out. The view during descent across the mountain valleys is genuinely breathtaking. Minimum age 12, minimum weight 40kg.

FREE
Heritage

Dhayah Fort

The only hilltop fort in the UAE, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop with panoramic views over the northern Emirates. Free to visit and climb. The views from the ramparts are some of the best in RAK. A short but steep climb is required — wear comfortable shoes. The surrounding palm oasis is photogenic.

FREE
Ghost Village

Al Jazirah Al Hamra

A remarkably preserved 1960s abandoned fishing village — coral-stone houses, a waterfront mosque, and wind towers frozen in time when the community relocated. One of the most unique and eerie sites in the UAE, completely free to walk around. Photographically extraordinary, especially at golden hour. Treat it with respect.

FREE
Beach

Marjan Island Beach

RAK's showcase man-made island with a public beach, waterfront dining, and the emerging Al Marjan resort strip. The beach is free and significantly less crowded than anything in Dubai. The offshore views and clear shallow water make it a genuine alternative to the overcrowded JBR and Kite Beach areas.

AED 5
Museum

RAK National Museum

Housed in a former palace, the RAK National Museum covers the emirate's history from prehistoric times through the pearl diving era to the present. Small but well-curated — AED 5 entry is exceptional value. The building itself (Qasr Al Dhour) is architecturally beautiful.

AED 500+
Golf

Al Hamra Golf Club

An 18-hole championship course designed by Peter Harradine, running alongside the Al Hamra lagoon. One of the UAE's top-rated golf experiences outside of Dubai, with more affordable green fees than the city's premium courses. The clubhouse and views over the water are excellent.

Insider Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Ras Al Khaimah from Dubai?
Approximately 100 km from central Dubai — about 1 hour by car on the Emirates Road (E611) under normal traffic conditions. From Dubai Airport (DXB), the drive is similar. There is no direct metro connection; a car, taxi, or organised transfer is required.
Is the Jais Flight zipline worth AED 799?
For most visitors, yes — it's the world's longest zipline and the mountain setting makes it incomparably dramatic. The 2.83 km, 120 km/h descent across mountain valleys is genuinely unlike any other zipline. If budget is a concern, the shorter Jais Sky Tour (AED 399) offers a multi-line experience at lower cost.
Is alcohol available in Ras Al Khaimah?
Yes — alcohol is served in licensed hotel bars and restaurants in RAK. Unlike Sharjah (dry emirate), RAK has a normal hospitality scene with hotel bars. The Al Hamra Golf Club and its associated hotel have licensed venues.
Is Al Jazirah Al Hamra (the ghost village) safe to walk around?
Yes — it is safe to walk around during daylight hours. The buildings are structurally stable though you should not enter obviously unsafe structures. Visit during daylight only. Treat the site with respect as it remains culturally significant to the original community.
What is the Wynn Al Marjan resort and when does it open?
Wynn Al Marjan Island is a luxury resort on RAK's man-made Marjan Island, developed by Wynn Resorts. It is expected to be the first hotel with gaming facilities in the UAE. Scheduled to open in 2026, it has attracted significant international attention and is expected to transform RAK's tourism profile.

Plan Your Ras Al Khaimah Trip

Zipline bookings, hotel recommendations, and day trip itineraries from our UAE travel team.

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