1-Day Offbeat Adventure: Outdoor & Culinary Exploration in Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

1 days

Jebel Jais mountain
Aerial view of the city
Zayed mosque
Zipline platform
National museum

About Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Discover the hidden gem of the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah. This northernmost emirate offers a rich heritage with its 7,000-year-old history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Explore the majestic Hajar Mountains, the serene golden deserts, and the pristine beaches along the Arabian Gulf. Visit the National Museum for a glimpse into the emirate's past or enjoy thrilling activities like mountain climbing, desert safaris, and water sports. Indulge in luxury at world-class resorts and savor traditional Emirati cuisine. Ras Al Khaimah is also home to the UAE's highest peak, Jebel Jais, where you can experience the world's longest zipline. A perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation awaits you in Ras Al Khaimah.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Local Culture and History

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the local Fish Market where you can witness the bustling activity of traders. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and observe the daily life of the locals. After the market, head to the nearby beach for a relaxing walk along the shore, enjoying the serene views of the Arabian Gulf.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Emirati lunch at a local restaurant. The cuisine here is a blend of Middle Eastern and Asian influences, with dishes like Harees, Majboos, and Shawarma. Don't forget to try the local dates and Arabic coffee for dessert.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a trip to the mountains for a guided tour of the ancient Dhayah Fort, where you can learn about the region's history and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Then, visit a local Camel Farm for a unique cultural experience.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in a Bedouin-style feast in the desert. Enjoy a variety of grilled meats, fresh salads, and traditional sweets under the stars. This is also a great opportunity to try camel milk, a local delicacy.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing stroll along the Corniche, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the stunning views of the city skyline. This is a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration and adventure.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

Fish Market

1
Fish Market

A bustling market where locals and tourists alike can buy fresh seafood or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants offering a variety of seafood dishes.

Shopping
Food and Drink
Dhayah Fort

2
Dhayah Fort

An 18th-century fort offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. It's the last remaining hilltop fort in the UAE.

Monuments
Landmarks
Camel Farm

3
Camel Farm

A unique attraction where visitors can learn about the importance of camels in Emirati culture and tradition. Visitors can also interact with the camels and even enjoy a camel ride.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Corniche

4
Corniche

The Corniche is a popular place for walks and picnics, offering stunning views of the creek and the city. It features a long stretch of sandy beach, green spaces, and a variety of food and drink options.

Parks
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Harees

Harees

A traditional Emirati dish popular in Ras Al Khaimah, made from wheat and meat (usually chicken or lamb), slow-cooked to a smooth, porridge-like consistency.

Majboos

Majboos

A spiced rice dish similar to biryani, often made with meat, vegetables, and a blend of spices. It's a staple in Ras Al Khaimah and across the UAE.

Shawarma

Shawarma

A popular Middle Eastern dish that has become a fast-food staple in Ras Al Khaimah. It's made with thinly sliced meat (usually chicken or beef) wrapped in a pita bread with garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables.

Al Harees

Al Harees

A sweet version of Harees, made with ground wheat and sugar, often flavored with cardamom and rose water. It's a traditional dessert in Ras Al Khaimah, especially during Ramadan.

Samboosa

Samboosa

A popular snack in Ras Al Khaimah, similar to Indian samosas. They are deep-fried pastries filled with spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Luqaimat

Luqaimat

A traditional Emirati dessert, popular in Ras Al Khaimah. These are small, round doughnuts that are deep-fried until golden, then drizzled with date syrup or honey.

Kabsa

Kabsa

A traditional Middle Eastern dish of spiced rice with meat (usually chicken, goat, or lamb), vegetables, and a blend of spices. It's a common dish in Ras Al Khaimah and across the UAE.

Manakish

Manakish

A popular breakfast item in Ras Al Khaimah, often referred to as the Middle Eastern pizza. It's a flatbread topped with za'atar (a mix of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac), cheese, or ground meat.

Arabic Coffee

Arabic Coffee

A symbol of hospitality in Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE. It's a strong, bitter coffee, often flavored with cardamom and served in small cups.

Karak Chai

Karak Chai

A popular drink in Ras Al Khaimah, it's a strong, sweet tea made with condensed milk and a blend of spices, including cardamom and saffron.

Stuffed Camel

A traditional Bedouin dish, usually served at special occasions. In Ras Al Khaimah, it's often made with whole camel, stuffed with chicken, eggs, fish, and rice.

Date Pudding

Date Pudding

A popular dessert in Ras Al Khaimah, made with dates, a staple fruit in the region. The pudding is often flavored with cardamom and served with a sweet syrup.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates is during the cooler months from October to April. During this period, the temperatures are pleasant, ranging between 20°C to 28°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The skies are mostly clear, providing excellent conditions for desert safaris, beach activities, and exploring the city's historical sites. However, it's worth noting that December to February is the peak tourist season, so it might be a bit crowded.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

April 12

Fri

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

June 16

Sun

Arafat (Hajj) Day

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha Holiday

July 8

Mon

Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year)

September 16

Mon

Mouloud

December 2

Mon

National Day

December 3

Tue

National Day Holiday

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Ras Al Khaimah. There are numerous car rental companies available at the airport and throughout the city. An international driving permit is required for foreign drivers.

Taxis are readily available throughout Ras Al Khaimah. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Taxis are metered and offer a convenient way to get around the city.

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Careem are available in Ras Al Khaimah. These services can be booked using a smartphone app and offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis.

Ras Al Khaimah has a public bus system that covers most of the city. Buses run regularly and are a cost-effective way to get around. However, they can be slower than other forms of transport due to traffic and frequent stops.

For those seeking a more luxurious travel experience, hiring a private driver is an option. This allows for personalized service and the convenience of having a car available at all times.

Ras Al Khaimah is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike rental shops. This is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, especially the Corniche area and the Al Qawasim Corniche.

Water taxis operate along the creek in Ras Al Khaimah, offering a unique way to see the city. They are particularly popular for trips to the traditional markets or 'souks'.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyد.إ AED

Time zoneUTC+4

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone998, 999

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type G

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates as a first time visitor

1

Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

2

The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood.

3

The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller establishments.

4

Ras Al Khaimah has a desert climate, with extremely hot summers (up to 108°F/42°C) and mild winters (down to 59°F/15°C).

5

The best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is cooler.

6

Dress code is conservative, especially for women. It's respectful to cover your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques.

7

Tipping is not obligatory but is common practice. A 10% tip is usually sufficient in restaurants.

8

Drinking alcohol is permitted in licensed venues such as hotels, but public drunkenness is heavily penalized.

9

Public displays of affection are frowned upon and can lead to legal trouble.

10

Friday is a holy day in the UAE, so many businesses will be closed or have reduced hours.

11

The UAE uses the type G power socket, and the standard voltage is 220 V.

12

Healthcare facilities in Ras Al Khaimah are of a high standard, but travel insurance is recommended.

13

Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available and often preferred.

14

Ras Al Khaimah is generally safe, but it's always wise to take standard travel precautions.

15

Taxis are a common mode of transport and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.

16

The UAE has strict laws on drugs, including some prescription medication. Check before you travel if your medication is legal in the UAE.

17

Ras Al Khaimah is one hour ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time).

18

The emirate is known for its pearl diving heritage, so you might want to purchase a pearl as a souvenir.

19

Ras Al Khaimah has a zero-tolerance policy towards driving under the influence of alcohol.

20

Internet access is widely available in hotels and many public places, but some websites may be blocked due to local laws.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

مرحبا

Marhaba

Greeting someone

Goodbye

وداعا

Wadaeaan

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

من فضلك

Min fadlak

Asking for something

Thank you

شكرا

Shukran

Showing appreciation

Yes

نعم

Naam

Agreeing or confirming

No

لا

La

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

عفوا

Afuwan

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

أنا آسف

Ana asef

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟

Hal tatakallam al'injliziya?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

I don't understand

أنا لا أفهم

Ana la afham

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

أين الحمام؟

Ayna alhammam?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does this cost?

بكم هذا؟

Bikam hadha?

Asking for the price of something

I need a doctor

أحتاج إلى طبيب

Ahtaj ila tabib

In case of a medical emergency

Can you help me?

هل يمكنك مساعدتي؟

Hal yumkinuk musaeadati?

Asking for help

Water

ماء

Maa

Asking for water

Food

طعام

Taam

Talking about food

Taxi

تاكسي

Taksi

Looking for a taxi

Hotel

فندق

Fanduq

Looking for a hotel

Airport

مطار

Matarr

Talking about the airport

Call the police

اتصل بالشرطة

Itasil bishurtat

In case of an emergency

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sunglasses

  • Sun hat

  • Swimwear

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash, particularly in small denominations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and/or car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Memory card for camera

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Ras Al Khaimah

  • Notebook and pen

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent packets

  • First-aid kit

Weather Conditions

Ras Al Khaimah, located in the United Arab Emirates, experiences a desert climate, which means it's generally hot and dry throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from November to April, when temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) to 30°C (86°F). This is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, desert safaris, and beach outings. From May to October, the weather can get extremely hot, with temperatures soaring up to 40°C (104°F) or even higher. If you're planning to visit during these months, it's crucial to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Indoor activities are recommended during the day, as most buildings are air-conditioned. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. However, remember that the UAE is a Muslim country, so it's respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Don't forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and a high SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong sun. Lastly, while rain is rare in Ras Al Khaimah, it can occasionally occur between December and March. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to be prepared for any unexpected weather changes.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

28° / 14°

January is a pleasant month to visit Ras Al Khaimah, with mild temperatures and low humidity.

February

29° / 15°

February continues the pleasant weather, making outdoor activities enjoyable.

March

33° / 18°

March sees a slight increase in temperature, but the weather remains comfortable for sightseeing.

April

37° / 22°

April marks the beginning of the warmer months, but evenings are still cool and pleasant.

May

41° / 26°

May is quite hot, but the beautiful beaches of Ras Al Khaimah offer a perfect escape from the heat.

June

43° / 29°

June is one of the hottest months, but indoor activities and water sports can still be enjoyed.

July

45° / 31°

July is extremely hot, but the luxurious resorts in Ras Al Khaimah offer plenty of indoor activities.

August

45° / 31°

August is the peak of summer, with high temperatures throughout the day and night.

September

42° / 28°

September sees a slight decrease in temperature, but it's still quite hot for outdoor activities.

October

38° / 24°

October marks the beginning of the cooler months, making it a good time to visit.

November

34° / 20°

November offers pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

December

30° / 16°

December is one of the best months to visit Ras Al Khaimah, with cool temperatures and low humidity.

Did you know?

Did you know that Ras Al Khaimah is the northernmost emirate of the United Arab Emirates?

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