Have you heard about Ras Al Khaimah?

Nestled in the northernmost part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered – so many people don’t know about this fascinating Emirate.

Unlike its more famous neighbours, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, RAK offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle, making it the perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, adventure, and serenity. Among its many attractions, the emirate boasts the highest restaurant in the UAE, 1484 by Puro, which is a destination in itself. This post will take you on a journey through Ras Al Khaimah’s wonders and highlights. To never miss any new posts make sure you join over 1000+ professionals on our Middle East Insights Newsletter.

Ras Al Khaimah’s allure lies in its diverse landscapes, ranging from golden sandy beaches and lush mangroves to rugged mountains and terracotta deserts. This variety offers everyone a huge range of activities, from relaxing beach days and nature walks to thrilling mountain hikes and desert safaris.

RAK’s history is as rich as its landscapes are diverse. The Emirate is home to ancient archaeological sites that date back to the Bronze Age, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient civilisations. Dhayah Fort, a 16th-century fortress nestled amidst palm trees on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sea, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Natural Wonders

The Hajar Mountains, which dominate the eastern part of RAK and reach into Oman, are a heaven for adventurers. The mountains offer challenging treks, mountain biking trails, and the Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zip-line, promising an adrenaline rush for thrill-seekers.

Culinary Heights: 1484 by Puro

Perched atop the Jebel Jais mountain at an elevation of 1,484 meters above sea level, 1484 by Puro is not only the highest restaurant in the UAE but also a culinary destination that offers an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant’s name itself is a nod to its unique position in the Emirati landscape, offering guests not just a meal, but an experience that invigorates all your senses.

The journey to 1484 by Puro is as spectacular as the dining experience itself. As you ascend the winding roads of Jebel Jais, each turn offers breathtaking views of the rugged mountains and the vast expanse below. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a modern and elegantly designed space that complements the natural beauty of its surroundings.

The restaurant’s large windows and outdoor terrace offer unrivalled views of the Hajar Mountains, making it the perfect spot for a meal with a view. Whether you visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the restaurant promises a menu that blends international cuisine with local flavours, all prepared with the freshest ingredients…. and don’t forget to book in advance.

We get asked lots of questions from what to wear to how to behave with locals and if you have any burning questions, you will find it very useful to have them all answered in a 60 min Q&A session. Book one with Corina here.

 

Beyond Dining: Activities in Jebel Jais

A visit to 1484 by Puro offers more than just a culinary delight; it opens up a world of adventure and relaxation in Jebel Jais. After enjoying a meal above the clouds, visitors can explore the various activities that Jebel Jais and its surroundings have to offer.

• Jebel Jais Flight: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Jebel Jais Flight offers the chance to soar across the mountains at speeds of up to 150 km/h on the world’s longest zip-line.

• Hiking Trails: Various trails wind through the mountains, offering hikers of all skill levels the chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.

• Viewing Deck Park: With its series of viewing platforms, the park offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

• Bear Grylls Explorer Camp: Highly trained instructors and experts offer survival camps for different levels and age groups.

 

RAK’s extensive coastline along the Arabian Gulf offers pristine beaches that are perfect for relaxation and water sports. Here’s what you can do:

• Kayaking and Paddle Boarding: Explore the calm waters of the Gulf or venture into the mangroves of RAK, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature while paddling through the waterways.

• Jet Skiing: For those looking for speed and thrills, jet skiing along the coastline provides an exhilarating experience with stunning views of the emirate.

• Kite Surfing: With ideal wind conditions, RAK is becoming a popular spot for kite surfing enthusiasts. Beginners can also find schools offering lessons.

 

Other things to do there:

• Mohammed Bin Salem Mosque: Visit this historical mosque in the Al Dhait area, which is a fine example of traditional Islamic architecture and offers insights into the religious practices of the region.

 

Enjoy some of the many festivals:

• Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival: Held annually, this festival showcases local and international artists, featuring films, art installations, and photography.

• Lamasat Wataneyya Exhibition: this exhibition is dedicated to supporting over 70 micro and small businesses. there were some incredible food stalls there, that we loved.

Ras Al Khaimah is a great alternative when you want to experience an unique Emirate that isn’t as well known. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, RAK offers a wide range of activities that promise memorable experiences for every type of traveller.

If you are a business, rents are much cheaper than in some of the other Emirates and RAK offers a really good quality of life for expats (it was recently voted 4th best global cities for expatriates to live and work, according to a report by global network InterNations, outranking Dubai and Abu Dhabi).