Whilst the enthralling Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah may not be quite as well-known as its neighbours Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it will always be a marvellous place to experience. At this enchanting destination, you can look forward to enjoying appealing sandy beaches, sightseeing attractions, cultural highlights, natural wonders, exciting adventures and more. Some suggestions with regard to visiting and making the most of Ras Al Khaimah are provided below.

Image via Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort

An excellent place at which to commence your tour of Ras Al Khaimah is the captivating Dhayah Fort which will undoubtedly capture the interest of the culture and history lover. You would see that this fort is located amidst a verdant oasis and offers stunning views over the picturesque surrounding areas. Interestingly, this structure happens to be the sole hill fort to presently remain in the UAE. It has also witnessed a key historical event having been the site of a significant battle involving the Qawasim tribes of the area and British forces.

In times gone by, pearl diving was an important source of income for the native people of the Emirates; you could gain an insight into their way of life by visiting the engrossing village known as Al Jazeera Al Hamra. In fact, this hamlet is considered to be the only pearling village to survive in the whole region of the Gulf. In this village, you will encounter many captivating sights such as watchtowers and a fort, a souq, a mosque and various kinds of traditional residences as well.

A rather different kind of experience is taking the jaw-dropping Jais Flight which is regarded as being the world’s lengthiest zipline, extending over a distance of no less than 2.83 km. You could enjoy this adrenaline-pumping activity at the lofty mountain known as Jebel Jais. On this zipline experience, you will pass over rocky mountain peaks, canyons, vast ravines and other natural wonders at exhilarating speeds. This experience which lasts for nearly three minutes is sure to delight the adventure and thrill seeker. After completing this one-of-a-kind zipline ride, you are likely to feel like a true superhero!

Another of the unforgettable things to do in Ras Al Khaimah is to take a spellbinding hot air balloon ride over the Emirate’s desert landscapes. It is undoubtedly an entrancing spectacle to observe the sun rising over the desert expanses on a mesmerising balloon flight. From this aerial vantage point, the desert with its picturesque sand dunes will appear to be spectacular and dramatic with a reddish-gold hue. You could even have the opportunity to spot creatures like the oryx, foxes, wild donkeys, camels and other denizens of the desert during your flight.

After your sightseeing activities in Ras Al Khaimah, it would be a great idea to revitalize and rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit by indulging in some pampering spa treatments. You could enjoy traditional healing therapies at a tranquil spa sanctuary located amidst lush greenery. You may choose from effective treatments like Yam Khang fire therapy, a special romantic couple’s treatment, an Arabian-inspired healing ritual and more. An accommodation choice to consider where you could enjoy such holistic spa therapies is Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort.

This Emirate also has its share of shopping options with a number of attractive malls awaiting the avid shopper. You may choose to visit Al Hamra Mall, one of Ras Al Khaimah’s most popular shopping venues featuring more than 130 shops, a food court, appealing eateries, a multi-screen cinema and a children’s entertainment zone. Another fine shopping venue is RAK Mall which boasts plenty of international and local fashion brand names, fine dining venues, homeware stores, banks, entertainment options and more.