Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is one of the UAE’s most underrated destinations, offering a brilliant mix of adventure, nature, beach escapes, and cultural attractions. Whether you want heart-pounding activities in the mountains, peaceful days along pristine coastlines, or immersive heritage experiences, RAK delivers something for every type of traveller.
With the UAE’s highest peak, vast mangrove forests, peaceful beaches, and traditional villages, it is quickly becoming a must-visit alternative to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
In this guide, you’ll find a complete breakdown of the best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah in 2025, from Jebel Jais adventures to wildlife encounters, family attractions, heritage sites, and premium leisure offerings.
- Adventure and extreme sports in Ras Al Khaimah
- Desert safari adventures
- Hot air balloon flights
- Beach and water activities
- Kayaking in Downtown Mangroves
- Flamingo spotting at RAK Corniche
- Visit Cultural and historical attractions
- Enjoy Family-friendly activities
- Shopping and leisure
- Hiking and mountain activities
- Enjoy an Enchanting Dinner Under the Stars
- Enjoy Afternoon Sip of Tea at the Heights
- Visit RAK Zoo
- Swimming in the Khatt Hot Springs
- Do Scuba Diving
- Commute Time to Ras Al Khaimah
- Key takeaways
- FAQS
1. Adventure and extreme sports in Ras Al Khaimah
Adventure is at the heart of RAK’s identity, with world-class outdoor activities for thrill-seekers. From soaring over mountains to powering across golden dunes, the emirate has become the adventure capital of the UAE.
For thrill-seekers, some of the most popular things to do in Ras Al Khaimah include soaring over Jebel Jais on the world’s longest zipline and tackling the desert dunes on quad bikes or dune buggies.
Jebel Jais and the world’s longest zipline
Jebel Jais, the country’s highest peak, is a dramatic and unmissable attraction for outdoor lovers. The mountain is home to the Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline, which sends you soaring over rugged cliffs and winding valleys at high speeds. It is an unforgettable bucket-list experience suitable for adrenaline lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Beyond the zipline, visitors can enjoy the Jais Sky Tour, panoramic viewpoints, cafés, and guided experiences. Mountain safari tours to Jebel Jais are also available.
Location
It is located in Wadi Shehah – Ras Al Khaimah
2. Desert safari adventures
RAK’s desert landscape is ideal for quad biking, dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and traditional Bedouin-style evening camps. Experiences range from affordable group tours to premium private safaris.
Popular options include:
- VIP desert safari with camel ride and barbecue
- Evening desert safari with quad bike
- Dune buggy tour (up to two people)
- RAK quad bike tour
- Private evening safari with barbecue (up to six)
3. Hot air balloon flights
Hot air ballooning in RAK offers peaceful sunrise views across the desert, mountains, and coastline. It is perfect for photography lovers and couples seeking a memorable morning experience.
The ride offers breathtaking aerial views and a serene, slow-paced adventure high above the desert.
Location
It is located on Khuzam Rd – Al Qurum – Ras Al Khaimah
4. Beach and water activities
Ras Al Khaimah’s coastline stretches more than 65 kilometres, featuring sandy beaches, calm waters, and thriving mangrove habitats. Beach lovers will find plenty of relaxing things to do in Ras Al Khaimah, from spotting flamingos along the Corniche to kayaking through the city’s tranquil mangroves.
Flamingo Beach
Flamingo Beach is one of RAK’s most photogenic spots, featuring a long sandy stretch, pink flamingo statues, and laid-back vibes. Despite its popularity, it remains relatively quiet and is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and family outings.
Features
- Wide sandy shore suitable for families
- Flamingo statues and casual photo spots
- Gentle waves and shallow water
- Adjacent glamping options
- Water sports ,including kayaking and paddle-boarding
Location
It is located in Al Nadiya – Ras Al Khaimah
Longbeach Campground and glamping
Located along Flamingo Beach, Longbeach Campground offers all-inclusive glamping with private beach access and unique outdoor facilities. It blends adventure with resort-level comfort.
Glamping highlights
- Private 300-metre sandy beach
- Multiple swimming pools
- Water sports and yard games
- Alfresco cinema
- Daily entertainment
- On-site spa treatments
Location
It is located on King Faisal Street – Al Nadiya – Ras Al-Khaimah
5. Kayaking in Downtown Mangroves
One of RAK’s most authentic nature things to do in Ras Al Khaimah is kayaking through its protected mangrove ecosystems. Starting from Al Ras Kayak near Al Naeem Mall, visitors can paddle through calm waterways rich with wildlife.
Expect to see flamingos, cormorants, greater spotted eagles, crustaceans, and various fish species as you explore the area. The mangroves offer serene, calming scenery right in the heart of the city.
6. Flamingo spotting at RAK Corniche
For a more relaxed wildlife encounter, the RAK Corniche offers excellent flamingo viewing without the need for kayaking. It’s ideal for quick visits, photography, and sunset walks along the waterfront.
7. Visit Cultural and historical attractions
RAK’s cultural landscape features forts, fishing villages, coastal heritage sites, and an ancient tradition of pearl diving. These heritage attractions offer an authentic glimpse into the UAE’s history.
Suwaidi Pearl Farm Tour
This immersive tour showcases the emirate’s pearl-diving past. Visitors board a traditional fishing boat from Al Rams Marina and travel to a floating pearl farm.
At the pearl farm, you can learn about traditional pearl diving, watch live oyster openings, explore the pearl cultivation process, and enjoy the beautiful mangrove scenery. This is one of Ras Al Khaimah’s most unique cultural experiences.
Location
It is located in Al Rams – Ras Al Khaimah
National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah
Located in a historic fort, the National Museum presents archaeological finds, heritage pieces, and cultural displays that highlight the emirate’s evolution over time. It is ideal for visitors interested in history and governance.
Location
It is located in Al Hisn Rd – Old Town – Ras Al Khaimah
Dhayah Fort
Dhayah Fort is a landmark hilltop structure offering panoramic views over palm groves, mountains, and the coastline. Its strategic location has made it significant throughout RAK’s history. The fort is especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
Location
It is located in Al Rams – Ras Al Khaimah
Jazirat Al Hamra fishing village
Jazirat Al Hamra is one of the UAE’s best-preserved traditional villages. Once a thriving fishing and pearl-diving community, it now stands as an open-air museum offering a rare look into pre-oil-era life.
Location
It is located in 25 Al Bari St – Al Jazeera Al Hamra – Ras Al Khaimah
8. Enjoy Family-friendly activities
RAK is an excellent choice for families with attractions, green spaces, and indoor leisure centres suitable for all ages.
- Khuzam Family Park: A peaceful green area with beach access, recreational facilities, and family amenities.
- Saqr Park: A popular theme park featuring rides, play areas, and picnic spots.
- Al Sawan Camel Track: A traditional 10-kilometre racing track offering camel races from September to April.
- Jungle Bungle: An indoor play centre in Al Dhait South with games and children’s activities.
9. Shopping and leisure
RAK’s malls combine retail, dining, entertainment, and cinemas, providing convenient leisure options for families and groups.
Popular malls include:
- Al Hamra Mall: Shopping, dining, cinema, and family entertainment
- Al Manar Mall: Well-known for casual dining and weekend events
- RAK Mall: Window shopping, cinema, and indoor entertainment
- Al Hamra Village: Upscale leisure, shopping, and resort atmosphere
10. Hiking and mountain activities
RAK is a paradise for outdoor trekkers, with rugged wadis, mountain trails, and guided hikes.
- Wadi Shawka Hiking: Known for scenic routes and seasonal water pools. Guided tours start from around $215 per adult.
- Hajar Mountains Exploration: Offers rock formations, desert valleys, and geological landscapes perfect for guided nature walks.
11. Enjoy an Enchanting Dinner Under the Stars
For a delicious meal in the desert, visit the luxurious Sonara Camp Al Wadi. Three tempting possibilities await you on a romantic evening beneath the stars:
- An all-inclusive adventure with a chauffeur
- A sunset experience
- A sunset and dinner experience
You can choose between exciting activities like camel rides, sandboarding, live entertainment and a breathtaking fire display.
Little ones can enjoy soft archery, a kid’s meal and a special movie under the stars. A lifetime of memories is promised by this fascinating desert adventure.
12. Enjoy Afternoon Sip of Tea at the Heights
If you love sipping tea in the afternoon, this jewel of a northern emirate actually takes your experience to new heights. This restaurant, 1484 by Puro, is the highest in the UAE, sitting above the famous Jebel Jais mountains in Ras Al Khaimah.
Its height of 1,484 metres above sea level gave it the name of Puro 1484. The Hajar mountains are beautifully seen via floor-to-ceiling windows while you have a cosy afternoon tea. It is just as amazing as the surroundings.
13. Visit RAK Zoo
The zoo is a great choice if you are looking for family-friendly things to do in Ras Al Khaimah. You will see various kinds of animals from every destination in the world.
If your kids love riding a horse, they can go to the Equestrian Club inside the park. It sounds like an amazing idea.
What makes it more exciting and memorable is that your kids can feed the animals too. Make it a memorable visit by taking some great snaps.
Location
It is located in Ras Al Khaimah
14. Swimming in the Khatt Hot Springs
The Khatt hot springs are thermal water springs containing minerals which have very useful advantages in healing and therapy.
Besides, this is a historic destination where you can immerse yourself in the ancient vibe while relaxing in the soothing hot springs. For a complete experience, consider staying at the Golden Tulip Khatt Springs Resort. If you’re captivated by the charm of Ras Al Khaimah.
15. Do Scuba Diving
Discover the beautiful and vibrant marine life of RAK and dive at Al Jazeera Diving & Swimming Centre. Also very suitable for beginner divers who are becoming a pro if they are really desirous of having an unparalleled adventure and for seasoned maestros, too.
Location
It is located Behind Iceland – near Al Jazeera Port – Al Jazeera Al Hamra – Al Hamra – Ras Al Khaimah
Commute Time to Ras Al Khaimah
Want to know the commute times for a quick trip? If you are a visitor, then here is the commute time to reach it by car.
- 1 hr 30 mins drive away – Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah
- 1 hr 3 mins drive away – Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah
- 2 hr 45 mins drive away- Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah
Key takeaways
Ras Al Khaimah stands out as one of the UAE’s most exciting destinations, offering a rare blend of adventure, nature, culture, and relaxation. Its world-class attractions, such as the world’s longest zipline at Jebel Jais, peaceful mangroves, and desert safaris, make it a top choice for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers.
For those planning their itinerary, the best things to do in Ras al Khaimah include beaches, flamingo habitats, and glamping resorts that provide a quieter alternative to Dubai’s fast-paced coastline, while cultural gems like Suwaidi Pearl Farm and Dhayah Fort add depth to any trip.
FAQs
The best time to visit is between November and April when temperatures are cooler and ideal for outdoor activities.
Two to three days is enough for the main highlights, including Jebel Jais, Flamingo Beach, and the mangroves. Four to five days is ideal for combining adventure activities, cultural sites, and leisure experiences.
RAK offers a more laid-back and authentic feel, focusing on natural landscapes, heritage attractions, and affordable activities. It has fewer crowds and a slower pace while still offering resorts, beaches, and family facilities.
Yes. Families can enjoy beaches, theme parks, indoor play centres, glamping facilities, camel rides, and wildlife viewing. Many activities are suitable for young children with proper supervision.
