Visit Ras Al Khaimah, the land of sun, sand and heritage

Waterways in Ras Al Khaimah Creek mangroves.

The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, to the north of the UAE, is known for its scenic sites and fine weather throughout the year. It is also turning into a leading tourist hub that attracts residents and tourists from across the country and abroad.
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The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has launched a promising strategy to attract up to three million visitors by 2025.
Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority told Khaleej Times in an interview that 2016 has been a busy year with the launch of the new Tourism Strategy - Vision 2019.
"As per the new strategy, we are fully geared up to reach one million visitors by the end of 2018. We also have the long term goal of 2.9 to three million visitors by 2025," he said.
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Such ambitious targets will require an additional 20,000 hotel rooms by 2025, along with new tourist attractions, products and events to be developed across Ras Al Khaimah, added Mattar.
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"So far, year-to-date visitor numbers have increased by seven per cent as compared to last year, and hotel performance is really positive."
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Summer months are usually a low season, he pointed out. "However, this summer saw an unprecedented increase in our hotel occupancy rates."
For the summer months of June to August 2016 versus the same period in 2015, overall domestic and international visitor arrivals to RAK's hotels increased by 15.9 per cent while guest nights increased by 22.3 per cent and hotel reservation increased by 14 per cent." Ras Al Khaimah is also home to the UAE's tallest mountain, Jebel Jais which offers travelers and residents looking for outdoor adventures and diverse scenery at significantly cooler temperatures. It also offers incredible views of the stunning Ras Al Khaimah landscape.
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"The emirate boasts 64km of pristine beaches, and 7,000 years of untouched heritage and culture." In addition, there are numerous water sports and activities available across the emirate that enables visitors to get closer to marine life including sea turtles and sting rays, he said.
"As well as the natural attributes, the emirate boasts world-class golfing facilities at Al Hamra Golf Club, which will be the host course of the Ras Al Khaimah Golf Challenge 2016."
The globally anticipated event, one of the biggest sporting events in the UAE calendar will host more than 100 professional and amateur golfers across three-days.
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"The important event is expected to attract thousands of spectators staying at the range of luxury and mid-range hotels across Ras al Khaimah."
Land of scenic wonders
Ras Al Khaimah is not only a hub for tourist sites, but also one of the most favourite destinations for active holidays and sports.
The emirate, which is just 45-minutes from Dubai International Airport, or 30 minutes by sea wings, is an ideal destination for families, offering an array of interesting activities. These span camping, bowling, and visiting museums and waterparks. Most of the hotels offer kids clubs and babysitting.
Golf
The emirate is quickly becoming a leading destination for golf. With extensive facilities at Al Hamra Golf Club, the emirate has secured the position as host to the famous European Challenge Golf Tour.
Al Hamra Golf Club offers an 18-hole course (across 7,325 yards) with a broad range of facilities. The floodlit course also enables golf-fans to play after sunset. As an alternative, Tower Links also offers an 18-hole course set against the backdrop of the Hajar Mountains.
Water sports
For adventure seekers keen to take to the water, Ras Al Khaimah offers a great setting for scuba diving, sailing, water skiing, jet skiing, parasailing and fishing just to name a few. Many activities are available via the emirate's hotels and resorts, and span from beginner to expert level.
The emirate's famous waterpark, Iceland, also provides an exciting day out with a number of thrilling slides and games available for all the family to enjoy.
Adventure sports
Not for the faint hearted, RAK Track is a state-of-the-art karting track available for those who have a competitive spirit. The track is open to all. Visitors can also take to the skies with Jazira Aviation Club, which was created in 1998 near the Al Hamra Resort. The club is the only micro-lighting company in the UAE and offers visitors the chance to learn to fly through a range of courses. Teamed with the adventure activities, Ras Al Khaimah is an ideal location for thrill-seekers.
Equestrian
Here is one of the few destinations where you can tick off both horse-riding in the desert and on the beach from the bucket list. The emirate offers the activity for all levels at the centres including Al Wadi Equestrian Adventure Centre. Visitors can take lessons or go for long hacks set against the beautiful scenery of the beach and desert.
Wildlife experiences
Visitors can visit natural reserves to experience Ras Al Khaimah's wildlife including sightings of local animals such as oryx and gazelle. Embracing one of the oldest traditions in Arabian culture, visitors are also able to enjoy falconry shows boasting a diverse collection of falcons, hawks, kestrels, owls and eagles.
Luxury and wellness
Resorts : Ras Al Khaimah boasts a large portfolio of 5* hotels and resorts at 4* prices. Each hotel has something different to offer whether guests are looking for a family stay, pampering retreat or indulgent luxury. Some of the luxury hotels include:

• Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
• Banyan Tree Al Wadi
• Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach
• The Cove Rotana Resort
• DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island
• Rixos Bab Al Bahr
• Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa
• Golden Tulip Khatt Springs Resort & Spa