Astonishing Ras Al Khaimah

There’s no need to choose between a beach holiday or city break in Ras al-Khaimah, the northernmost of the United Arab Emirates. This place has both a contemporary capital full of shops, bars, and restaurants, and more than 40 miles of honey-coloured sand – all with a backdrop of the lunar-like Hajar Mountains.

There’s a blend of old and new UAE here. Modern shopping malls sit alongside age-old spice souks, fine dining restaurants make way for traditional Bedouin cafés, and away from the glamorous hotels of the centre, the Al Wadi Desert has camps where you can sleep under the stars. Lastly, a word on the city’s mangroves. They stretch along the coastline and through the urban centre – a hub of fish, flamingos, and birdlife. Explore by kayak or paddle board, and you’ll experience both total tranquility and the buzz of the city along the way.

Less well known than its flashy neighbours, Ras Al Khaimah is one of the United Arab Emirates’ best-kept secrets. People are drawn here by the promise of white sandy beaches (some of the very best in the Middle East) and fantastic resort hotels, such as the Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort and the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. Check out Flamingo, Rak and Al Rams for the best of the beaches.

The history of Ras al-Khaimah stretches back 7,000 years with attractions like Dhayah Fort and the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah affording a glimpse into the architecture, archaeology, and Bedouin heritage that’s perhaps harder to find elsewhere in the UAE. It’s also a destination with an eye firmly on the future; but development here takes place in a sustainable way to help protect its natural attractions which include mangroves, pearl fishing and the UAE’s highest mountain peaks.