Where?

Ras al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Why now?

About an hour’s drive from Dubai, Ras al-Khaimah (RAK) is the
most northern Emirate, nestled in the Hajar mountains and boasting
one of the most varied landscapes in the region. Here, jagged rocky
mountains meet burnt-umber deserts, date farms, green plains and a
clear stretch of white beaches along the Persian Gulf. Until recently, Ras al-Khaimah kept
these natural treasures to itself, letting its glitzy neighbours
host the influx of sun-seeking tourists. Unlike the shiny
skyscrapers reigning in nearby Dubai, RAK’s attractions are dusty
forts, steeped in history and just waiting to be explored.
Providing an ideal combination of beach, adventure and history, RAK paints a very
different picture to the extravagance that is so often associated
with the United Arab Emirates. Indeed, it has recently been called
the ‘rising emirate’ and we suspect RAK can expect a steady
increase in visitors – make sure you’re one of the first.

When to go?

October to March when you can experience camel racing (early on
Friday mornings) which is a quintessentially Arabian experience. Be
part of the crowd as dozens of camels break through the gates,
jostling along as fast as they can as the jockeys follow in 4x4s
using remote-control whips – a sight to behold.

Most likely to bump into…

If you’re hanging out in the right places you might just spot
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, who have recently been filming their
new Netflix series, War Machine, here…

Who to take with you?

An adventurer. This is the place for traditional sports like
falconry, archery and horse riding.

Don’t miss

Jazirat Al Hamra – set in the south of RAK is this crumbling,
abandoned fishing and pearling village. Polar opposites from the
gleaming high-rises, there is an eerie feel to this place, but it
is worth visiting for a snapshot of how the area used to look.
Jebel Al Jai – at 6300ft this is the highest peak in the UAE with a
30km road snaking almost to the top. With lots of handy spots for
your to pull over, it’s a journey of endless photo opportunities.
RAK National Museum which is housed in an 18th-century royal palace
and the 16th-century Dhayah fort are just some of the historical
landmarks which are not to be missed. You’ve seen the skyscrapers
of the future – this will inform you about the country’s past.

An essential you bring with you?

Long, loose clothing. While RAK welcomes visitors and is known
as one of the more liberal Emirates countries, it is always
important to be respectful of local customs.

How to get there?

Qatar Airways does one-stop flights to RAK, or fly direct to
Dubai and drive from there.