Situated in the northernmost part of the United Arab Emirates lies Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), one of the seven Emirates. The journey to RAK was a stark contrast to what most people imagine when they think of the UAE — skyscrapers, luxury cars, and bustling modern life. After passing through Dubai’s gleaming opulence and Sharjah’s busy yet sprawling roads, I found myself entering a quieter, more authentic side of the country. RAK, with its simple streets and lack of ostentatious glamour, seemed like a scene pulled straight from an old Arabian film. This peaceful Emirate promised a blend of adventure and heritage, a side of the UAE I was eager to explore.
My home for the next three days was the Cove Rotana Resort, perched right on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. As soon as I arrived, the sight of the pristine blue waters and the sound of gentle waves set the tone for an unforgettable stay. A beach person at heart, I felt the sea calling to me, tempting me to abandon my plans and sink my feet into the warm sands. But adventure and discovery awaited, so I resisted, at least for the moment.
Nestled in the serene fishing village of Al Rams, the House of Pearls by Suwaidi Pearls is a treasure trove of tradition and innovation. On my visit to this unique establishment, I was instantly transported to a bygone era, where the Arabian Gulf shimmered with the promise of pearls. Abdulla Rashed Al Suwaidi, from a family of pearl divers, has showcased the tales of how his ancestors braved the seas in search of nature’s treasures
My first full day in RAK was a deep dive into its rich heritage and culture. After a hearty breakfast, I headed to the Dhayah Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on top of RAK’s highest hill. The fort offered breathtaking bird’s-eye views of the surrounding landscape, a reward for the short climb up. From there, I ventured to the quaint fishing village of Al Rams, nestled at the foothills of the Jebel Jais mountains. Here, I discovered Suwaidi Pearl Farm, the world’s only Arabian pearl farm. The experience was nothing short of enlightening. I watched as pearl nests were pulled from the calm waters and learned the art of pearl cultivation, inspired by the legendary Pearl King, Kokichi Mikimoto of Japan. The afternoon took me on a short trip to the RAK National Museum and the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, a preserved 14th-century ghost town that spoke of a bygone era. Wandering through its silent lanes and abandoned homes was like stepping into a time capsule, each corner whispering stories of the past.
Day Two was dedicated to unleashing my inner adrenaline junkie, and it didn’t disappoint! The Jebel Jais mountains were my first stop. With a crisp 10°C breeze which was a chilling surprise in the UAE, I prepared for the highlight of the day: the Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline. Standing at an altitude of 1,680m above sea level, I soared through the air at lightning speed, feeling an exhilarating mix of fear and freedom. Touching down safely, I couldn’t help but bask in the pride of having conquered this incredible task. Lunch was at 1484 by PURO, a mountain-top restaurant that offered both delicious food and panoramic views. The adventure continued at Camp 1770, where I was greeted with warm cinnamon tea, Arabian date cookies, and a hearty Emirati lunch. Relaxing in the chilling mountain air felt surreal, as though I had discovered a secret haven far removed from the world below.
On the third day, it was time to descend into the golden desert. The rolling dunes stretched endlessly, dotted with camels and Arabian oryx. I embraced the thrill of dune bashing, my heart racing as the 4x4 sped up and down the sandy slopes. The day ended with a stop at Jazirah Aviation Club, where I had my very own Top Gun moment, flying a small plane and taking in a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape of RAK.
RAK offered a side of the UAE that was both tranquil and adventurous. From its historical forts and heritage villages to its mountains, deserts, and pristine beaches, this Emirate is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. It’s a place where you can unwind by the sea, dive into history, and embrace your adventurous spirit, all in the span of a few days. It was a reminder that even in a country known for its glitz and glamour, there are hidden gems like RAK, where the soul of Arabia truly comes alive.
