Discover Ras Al Khaimah, the adventure capital of the Middle East

With Ras Al Khaimah being home to the highest mountain in the UAE, it’s no surprise that the emirate welcomes hundreds of hikers and explorers every year. Jebel Jais Mountain is almost 1,900-metres above sea level and is a real playground for every budding adventurer. There are a wealth of paths to follow catering to all levels of ability as well as various rock formations acting as brilliant marker points. For times when you want to take five, there are shaded areas with flat ground to sit, rest and soak in the amazing views. Guided tours are available, so you can truly immerse yourself in the culture and brilliance of your surroundings, and if you fancy getting a little romantic there’s also the chance to have a champagne picnic at the top via a private car transfer for your convenience. 

We also can’t forget to mention that you can experience jetting along the world’s longest zipline here. With two lines running side by side, you and a friend can reach speeds of close to 100 miles-per-hour. After you’re harnessed up and given a quick safety briefing, you’ll soar for nearly three minutes along the 1.76-mile track that is longer than 28 football fields. Why not try your best Superman pose if you’re feeling daring?

Located in Al Wadi Nature Reserve, Al Wadi Equestrian Adventure Centre offers animal lovers the chance to go on explorations on the back of either horses or camels. Organised treks are available to be booked with ease, and the fun doesn’t stop there. Stable tours including a camel-feeding session, sunset horse and camel rides and various group and team building activities make this choice perfect for all travellers.

If you’re new to riding, there are lessons available to suit all confidence levels with either private or group sessions available. More experienced riders can take advantage of the horse walker arena too. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to admire wildcats and desert foxes along your travels. Alternatively, the Camel Caravan is an extra lavish treat. This true immersion into Ras Al Khaimah sees you go through the desert, pit-stopping throughout the day to enjoy refreshments and traditional cuisine. The piece de resistance? Seeing the sun set with the sandy dunes as a backdrop.

Fun and adventures for the whole family are on offer at Ice Land Waterpark. As the largest waterpark in the UAE, the space is full of ice-themed scenery as well as more than 30 high-speed slides. Split into various sections, there’s plenty of things to do from the Snow River where you can float for hours to the Fun Bucket that showers you with gallons of water when it’s tipped. Even the smallest children are catered for with a separate kids’ area boasting a swimming pool for little ones, shallower waters and gentler rides. Rest and relaxation then comes into play thanks to the cabanas that can be rented poolside.

If you’d prefer to trade the sandy dunes of the desert with lush greenery, Saqr Park definitely delivers. Like Hyde Park is to London, Saqr Park is to Ras Al Khaimah and with a whole host of activities to keep you entertained you can easily spend an entire day here.

The biggest USP is the fairground that resides within. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, buy a balloon from a seller and whizz around on the swing carousel… it’s fun for the whole family. 

Alternatively, for a quieter affair there is a lake to either walk around or sail on. Rent pedal boats for the family and marvel at the man-made waterfalls. If you do decide to make a day of it, there are traditional cafés serving home comfort food and local delicacies that will give you plenty of energy to continue playing for hours on end.

For 360-degree views of Ras Al Khaimah, there’s no better place to head to than Dhayah Fort. This twin-towered fortress boasts bountiful history from the 19th-century due to its war site status. Once you reach the top of the zigzagging stairs you’ll be greeted by gorgeous vistas of the desert and the Hajar Mountains that makes it a sight for sore eyes.

Guided tours are the best option if you’re a first timer. Dhayah Fort can often be hard to find as it blends in with the dunes surrounding it. However, if you do decide to venture by yourself, simply follow the signs for Dhayah guest house which is directly opposite the historic landmark. Alternatively, if you fancy finding out more about the artefacts and jewellery that were housed here, they’re on show at the National Museum, reachable in 30-minutes by car from the fort.

The terracotta sands of Ras Al Khaimah are a real Arabian adventure just waiting to be explored. When you’re in the emirate one thing is a must – you simply have to embark on a desert safari during your stay. There are various ones to choose from, so every traveller is bound to find an excursion to suit them.

From 4x4 tours and dune driving to quad biking and camp dinners, there’s plenty to please every member of the party. What’s more, many offer the option of camel riding so if you’re after an authentic and unforgettable experience, this is definitely one to book. 

For even more adrenaline, sandboarding is a popular choice. Even if you’re a pro at skiing and snowboarding there’s nothing quite as exhilarating as zooming down the desert dunes. 

Ras Al Khaimah is an adventurer’s paradise through and through. Ideal for all travellers wanting unique experiences, there really is something for everyone. After a day of exploring, the five-star hotels are in a league of their own. Set on 350 metres of pristine private beach, 

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah is a luxurious family-friendly resort boasting a fantastic kids’ so the whole family can enjoy themselves. Adults also have a relaxing escape found in the onsite spa and two championship golf courses. 

The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach is another option complete with tented villas, gourmet restaurants and a host of leisure facilities to get acquainted with.

Alternatively, trade cerulean waters for sandy dunes at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert. Here you can spot oryx and gazelles from your accommodation and embark on plenty of desert safaris.