Driving time: 1hr 20mins (113km).
Ras Al Khaimah’s charm lies in its mellow ambience. A casual stroll along part of the 64km of white-sand coast followed by dinner overlooking Al Hamra Marina is an idyllic way to relax after making the drive up here, before you start on all of the adrenaline-inducing stuff that Ras Al Khaimah has by the absolute bucket-load.
Things to do
Longest zip line
World’s tallest building? Check. World’s tallest hotel? Tick that one off. World’s fastest roller coaster? Yes, that’s sorted. What else have you got, UAE? Well, how about the world’s longest zip line? That’s not a problem, either. Jebel Jais Flight is 2.83km-long (the same length as 28 football pitches) and can accommodate 400 people per day flying down the line at speeds of up to 150kph from 1,680m above sea level and during the summer it’s half price. For the next few months prices for the zipline start from Dhs341.25, down from Dhs650. Bargain.
Dhs341.25. Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah, www.toroverdeuae.com.
Explore a deserted town
If the hustle and bustle of daily life gets a bit much, then there is a place you are guaranteed plenty of peace and quiet. The abandoned pearling village of Jazirat Al Hamra in Ras Al Khaimah has remained almost unchanged since its inhabitants left in 1968, making it a permanent monument to a bygone era. Populated constantly from the 16th century until just 40 years ago, forts, schools, mosques and many other buildings still stand in the area. While it is completely empty, the vilage’s atmospheric, almost end-of-the-world quality ensures its gets its fair share of visits from intrigued tourists. It even has a celebrity friend in the form of Brad Pitt, who flew down by helicopter to film scenes for War Machine, which was released on Netflix in 2017.
Between Al Hamra Village and Al Jazeera Port in Ras Al Khaimah.
Dhayah Fort
Head up here day or night for a view out across RAK that will take your breath away. The fort dates back to the 16th century when it was built in a strategic hilltop position facing the gulf. There’s 234 steps to the top, but persevere and you’ll be rewarded.
Al Rams (056 334 3464).
