Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate of the UAE, is a treasure trove of experiences that seamlessly blend history, adventure, and modern indulgence. From wandering through ancient villages that echo the stories of pearling communities to soaring over mountains on record-breaking zip lines, the emirate offers a diverse palette of activities for travellers seeking something extraordinary.
Al Jazeera Al Hamra – A Glimpse into the Past
A journey into Ras Al Khaimah’s past begins at Al Jazeera Al Hamra, a village known as the “Red Island,” thanks to the reddish glow cast by the setting sun. Once a vibrant pearling hub inhabited by the Al Zaabi tribe. The village played a significant role in the region’s maritime trade. With the discovery of oil, many families moved to larger cities like Abu Dhabi, leaving behind a village steeped in culture and history
Walking through Al Jazeera Al Hamra feels like stepping into a different era, where buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries stand testament to a once-thriving trade. The architecture reveals hints of Emirati heritage, with larger homes indicating the prosperity of pearl merchants. As you stroll through, you will uncover the beauty of these structures and witness how people here once lived off the sea, earning the nickname “people of the sea.” Despite the passage of time and changing landscapes, Al Jazeera Al Hamra remains a living museum that captures the essence of a bygone era, preserving the legacy of Ras Al Khaimah’s rich heritage.
Suwaidi Pearls – Discovering the UAE’s Pearling Legacy
At Suwaidi Pearls, the legacy of pearl diving lives on. The tour begins with a tranquil boat ride through Al Rams Lagoon, where you might spot camels on Hale Island, the UAE’s tallest mountains, and mangroves teeming with life. Once on the floating platform, you will learn about the intricate history of the UAE’s pearling industry and the artistry of cultivating pearls today.
Visitors can handpick their pearl from an oyster for a memorable keepsake, a thrilling moment that embodies the spirit of adventure. You can even have the pearl set into a pendant on-site. The tours are timed throughout the day, with each time slot offering something unique: morning tours often feature flamingos, afternoons might reveal camels on the beach, and the 3 PM slot promises stunning sunsets over the lagoon.
Conquer the World’s Longest Zip Line
For thrill-seekers, Ras Al Khaimah is synonymous with Jebel Jais, home to the longest zip line in the world. At 2.83 km, this exhilarating ride takes you soaring through the mountains in a “Superman” position, arms stretched forward, like Iron Man! Starting from the top, you will zoom down at speeds influenced by your body weight; the heavier you are, the faster you go, making each rider’s experience uniquely thrilling.
The adventure does not end with the zip line. The ride is split into two segments, with a quick pause at a suspended platform offering a breathtaking view before a second, shorter zip line ride. Cameras capture every moment of the experience, with options for either a scenic mountain view or a face-forward shot so you are the star of your video. After the ride, a QR code lets you download your video instantly, providing a lasting memory of conquering one of the UAE’s most daring adventures.
The Jais Sledder: A Roller Coaster in the Mountains
If the zip line ignites your inner superhero, the Jais Sledder turns you into a mountain racer. This Alpine coaster is a gravity-driven ride that combines speed, control, and breathtaking views for an unforgettable experience. Covering a winding 1,840-mt track, the sledder reaches up to 40 km/h speed, with a convenient braking system allowing you to customise your pace.
The journey is thrilling as you race down the track, manoeuvring sharp hairpin bends and dips with the majestic Hajar Mountains as your backdrop. The ride is approximately eight minutes of pure fun, leaving you with a sense of exhilaration that rivals even the zip line.
I found the Jais Sledder to be the surprise highlight of my trip. There is something undeniably joyous about controlling your speed and leaning into each curve, with the wind rushing past and nature all around.
Dining in the Sky: 1484 by Puro
After all the excitement, there is no better place to unwind and refuel than 1484 by Puro, a restaurant perched 1,484 meters above sea level. The name reflects its lofty altitude, and the dining experience is just as elevated as its location. Overlooking the UAE’s highest peak, this eatery offers stunning views of Jebel Jais, especially during sunset.
The restaurant’s menu is a curated selection of international and local dishes, perfect for satisfying your post-adventure appetite.
