Best Things to Do in Ras Al Khaimah (2026 Guide)
An hour north of Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah pairs the UAE's highest mountain with the world's longest zipline and a quieter stretch of Gulf coastline — here is what is worth the drive.
Quick answer: Ras Al Khaimah's top draws are the Jebel Jais Flight zipline (the longest in the world at 2.83 km), the Jebel Jais Sky Tour via ferrata and viewing deck, the beaches of Al Marjan Island, and Dhayah Fort, the last Qawasim stronghold to fall to British forces in 1819. It is about a 75-minute drive from Dubai on the E11.
Jebel Jais: mountains, zipline and cooler air
Jebel Jais dominates every RAK itinerary for good reason. At 1,934 metres it is the UAE's highest point, and the drive up switches from flat desert scrub to hairpin mountain road in under half an hour. At the top, the Jebel Jais Flight zipline sends riders down 2.83 km of cable in a reclined, head-first position — it remains the longest single zipline run in the world. Less adrenaline-focused visitors can walk the viewing platforms, try the Jebel Jais Sky Tour via ferrata (a protected climbing route bolted into the rock face), or simply sit at one of the mountain cafés, which stay several degrees cooler than the coast year-round.
Al Marjan Island and the RAK beach scene
- Al Marjan Island — a man-made archipelago lined with resort hotels (Waldorf Astoria, Rixos, DoubleTree) and public beach access points
- Mina Al Arab — mangrove lagoons and a quieter beachfront, good for kayaking and birdwatching
- Al Hamra Village — a marina-and-golf community with a walkable corniche and casual restaurants
Heritage: Dhayah Fort and Old RAK
Dhayah Fort, on a hilltop north of the city, was the last fortification in the region to hold out against British naval bombardment in 1819 — the short climb to the top gives sweeping views over date plantations and the coastline. In RAK city itself, the National Museum sits inside a restored 18th-century fort that once served as the ruling family's residence.
Ras Al Khaimah at a glance
| Attraction | Best for | Time needed |
|---|---|---|
| Jebel Jais Flight zipline | Adventure seekers | 2-3 hours incl. drive up |
| Al Marjan Island beaches | Relaxed beach day | Half day or overnight |
| Dhayah Fort | History, short hike | 1 hour |
| Al Hamra Village | Golf, dining, marina walks | Half day |
Getting there and combining it with Fujairah
The E11 north from Dubai runs almost the whole way, and most car rentals or private transfers make the trip in 75-90 minutes depending on Sharjah traffic. Because RAK and Fujairah sit on opposite sides of the northern Hajar Mountains, several tour operators — including our own Ras Al Khaimah & Fujairah desert safari — combine an RAK morning with a Fujairah afternoon, so you are not doing two separate long drives from Dubai on two different days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ras Al Khaimah from Dubai?
Around 115 km, roughly a 1 hour 15 minute drive along the E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road) heading north. Most visitors do it as a day trip, though RAK also works well as a 2-3 night beach stay on its own.
What is the Jebel Jais Flight zipline?
It is the world's longest zipline at 2.83 km, running down the side of Jebel Jais at speeds that can reach around 120-150 km/h. Riders are harnessed in a horizontal, superman-style position. Minimum weight and age restrictions apply, so check current limits before booking.
How tall is Jebel Jais?
Jebel Jais rises to about 1,934 metres, making it the highest peak in the UAE. Temperatures at the summit run noticeably cooler than the coast — often 10-15°C lower — which is why it is a popular escape in the hotter months.
Is Ras Al Khaimah worth visiting if I have already seen Dubai?
Yes, particularly for outdoor activities Dubai does not have: mountain ziplining, via ferrata climbing routes, and a more low-key beach scene around Al Marjan Island and Mina Al Arab.
