Secrets of Ras al khaimah

Ras al Khaimah With over 7,000 years of fascinating history and culture, Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect getaway from everyday life. Offering magnificent landscapes, breathtaking coastlines and rich, terracotta desert planes, the emirate has firmly established itself as the UAE’s most authentic destination in the Middle East.

The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has an impressive archaeological heritage and rich cultural history. This area has enticed settlers with its unique combination of the four different landscapes found in the United Arab Emirates: striking mountains, coastal beaches and mangroves, and the desert.

The interaction of these geographical factors coupled with Ras Al Khamiah’s strategic location at the mouth of the Arabian Gulf has shaped the very special heritage of the Emirate. Archaeological excavations reveal that an advanced trading civilizations have existed in this region since 5000 BC. This rich history dating back to the Bronze Age makes Ras Al Khaimah one of the few places in the world that has continuously had settlers for over 7,000 years. Known through the ages as Julfar, Majan or Al Seer, Ras Al Khaimah has stood throughout antiquity as one of the most important trade centres and markets in the region.

Its position at the most trafficked maritime crossroads meant that the emirate was known to traders around the Gulf. Records show that inhabitants from RAK travelled as far afield as Bombay, China and Zanzibar as early as the 10th century.

Ras Al Khaimah’s location made it a valuable target for domination by a series of invading powers. Eighteen historic fortifications, castles and towers bear testament to a turbulent history that saw Ras Al Khaimah occupied or challenged by the Sasanians, Islamic clans of the Arabian Gulf, the Portuguese, Dutch and British Forces.

Ras Al Khaimah’s history comes into sharper focus with the arrival of the Qawasim, a clan so influential that they not only united a large part of the Northern Emirates, but also created one of the strongest fleets ever seen in this part of the region.

The arrival of the British influenced a political situation of the Arabian sheikdoms and introduced many changes. These changes finally led to a unification of the seven emirates in 1971/1972, this unification is what is now known as the United Arab Emirates.

History enthusiasts travelling to RAK will find a treasure trove of archaeological sites within easy reach, waiting to bring the past to life.

The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has an impressive archaeological heritage and rich cultural history. This area has enticed settlers with its unique combination of the four different landscapes found in the United Arab Emirates: striking mountains, coastal beaches and mangroves, and the desert.

The interaction of these geographical factors coupled with Ras Al Khamiah’s strategic location at the mouth of the Arabian Gulf has shaped the very special heritage of the Emirate. Archaeological excavations reveal that an advanced trading civilizations have existed in this region since 5000 BC. This rich history dating back to the Bronze Age makes Ras Al Khaimah one of the few places in the world that has continuously had settlers for over 7,000 years. Known through the ages as Julfar, Majan or Al Seer, Ras Al Khaimah has stood throughout antiquity as one of the most important trade centres and markets in the region.

Its position at the most trafficked maritime crossroads meant that the emirate was known to traders around the Gulf. Records show that inhabitants from RAK travelled as far afield as Bombay, China and Zanzibar as early as the 10th century.

Ras Al Khaimah’s location made it a valuable target for domination by a series of invading powers. Eighteen historic fortifications, castles and towers bear testament to a turbulent history that saw Ras Al Khaimah occupied or challenged by the Sasanians, Islamic clans of the Arabian Gulf, the Portuguese, Dutch and British Forces.

Ras Al Khaimah’s history comes into sharper focus with the arrival of the Qawasim, a clan so influential that they not only united a large part of the Northern Emirates, but also created one of the strongest fleets ever seen in this part of the region.

The arrival of the British influenced a political situation of the Arabian sheikdoms and introduced many changes. These changes finally led to a unification of the seven emirates in 1971/1972, this unification is what is now known as the United Arab Emirates.

History enthusiasts travelling to RAK will find a treasure trove of archaeological sites within easy reach, waiting to bring the past to life.

City & Corniche Ras Al Khaimah city is located on the coast of the Arabian Gulf and it is divided in two sections: old Ras Al Khaimah and Nakheel which are connected by the oldest bridge in the city.

Nakheel is home to all the Government Authorities, Ruler’s Court, museum, markets, old souq and some shopping malls.

In Ras Al Khaimah city there are two main Corniches: the first one is the old Ras Al Khaimah corniche which is located opposite the Kuwaiti Souq. Here locals enjoy relaxing on the white beach while soaking in the sunset. The second corniche is Al Qawasim corniche, located next to the Ras Al Khaimah Bridge.

With three kilometres of green area along the blue waters of Khor Ras Al Khaimah, one can enjoy a lazy afternoon on the grass while taking in the views of the mangroves. This is also a very popular place for fitness seekers to walk or jog on the running track. Kids can ride on their bicycles or enjoy an ice-cream with their families. Visitors can also have a meal or a warm cup of tea in one of the popular waterside restaurants or cafes.

National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah Formerly a palace and residence of the Al Qasimi Royal family until 1964, the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah is now considered the UAE’s wealthiest monumental museum and features a diverse collection of historical artefacts, ancient ornaments, priceless manuscripts and traditional weapons, many of which have been donated by the ruling family and residents of the emirate.

Visitors of all ages will be impressed by the museum’s rich variety of educational galleries, which provide a wealth of historical information and depict aspects of traditional life in Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE. Traditional life in Ras al-Khaimah is the highlight of the Ethnographical display. Visitors will learn about architecture, pearl diving, date agriculture, farming and fishing in the various galleries.

Dhayah Fort Originally built as a 16th century fortification to defend against invading forces and now the only hilltop military tower left standing in the UAE, Dhayah Fort offers a glimpse into Ras Al Khaimah’s riveting past while providing a modern symbol of the emirate’s enduring heritage. Military aficionados will love learning about the site’s rich backstory at their own pace through self-guided tours of the fort. Meanwhile, sightseers are sure to enjoy the breathtaking bird’s eye views of Ras Al Khaimah, framed by the Arabian Gulf and Al Hajar Mountains, thanks to the fort’s elevated position atop a rocky outcrop.

With a backdrop of steep mountains, the bay of Dhayah has always been a very fertile area and has been settled in at least since the third millennium BC. A conical shaped hill at the edge of the palm gardens and at the foot of the mountains, served as a natural defense post for the oasis. People have used this hill since prehistoric times for settlement and fortification alike.

Today it is crowned by a fortress, built during the 19th century on the foundations of much older structures. It is the only hilltop fort still existing in the UAE and offers a fantastic view of the lush palm gardens, the sea and the dramatic mountains.

Mountains In the eastern part of Ras Al Khaimah is a spectacular mountain range called the Ru’us Al Jibal. It is part of the Hajar Mountains, which start in the Musandam Peninsula and run as far south as Sur in Oman. These mountains were formed more than 70 million years ago.

Jebel Jais at 1,934m is not only the highest peak in Ras Al Khaimah but in the entire UAE. A key feature of the mountains is the abundance of wadis and hiking and mountain bike trails.

The Hajar Mountains are the perfect place for a picnic or hike, rewarding the visitor with dramatic canyons and spellbinding views around every corner. For a real challenge, take a trek up to the summit of UAE’s tallest peak, Jebel Jais, which stands 1,934 metres tall and stays 10 degrees cooler than sea level.

Biking and camping are just as fun when it comes to mountain adventures. As the Arabian sun fades into the horizon, prepare to be wowed by Ras Al Khaimah’s sparkling night sky. Far from the light pollution of the city, the unusually dark skies offer a jaw-dropping stargazing experience that will linger long in the memory.

Jannah Resort & Villas Ras al Khaimah Jannah Resort & Villas Ras Al Khaimah is currently establishing itself in a great upand-coming emirate as the ultimate tourist destination.

The resort promises paradisehunters a luxury rustic break from the city life in the tranquility of white sandy beaches, uninterrupted vistas over the Arabian Gulf and year-round sunshine.

Ras Al Khaimah, home to Jannah Resort & Villas, also offers idyllic vacations, adventure activities including water sports, micro-lighting, mountain climbing and kayaking, as well as an eclectic selection of international gourmet experiences and world-class spas combined with genuine Arabian ambience and hospitality.

24 Villas 3 Four-bedroom beachfront villas Stunning views and direct access to the beach, giving a choice of experiencing the serene and tranquil beachfront living, that isonly steps away from the shoreline of the fourbedroom villa, offering 628 square meters of haven with a temperature-controlled pool and a private garden.

1 four-bedroom pool-view villa Perfectly positioned for guests to wake up to a beautiful sunrise and gentle breezethat rolls off the sea, with Ras Al Khaimah’s magnificent temperature-controlled pooland a private garden, offering 628 squaremeters of cozy space, ideal for familes or friends traveling together.

15 three-bedroom garden-view villas Serene beachfront living with stunning views, only steps away from the shoreline, with 348 square meters of haven in a stylish design, with a temperature-controlled pool and a private garden.

5 three-bedroom pool-view villas Ultimate indulgence in an impressive sanctuary with Ras Al Khaimah’s largest temperature-controlled villa pools with a private garden, modern interiors with natural tones, 348 square meters of luxury space providing comfort and convenience.

Room Amenities and Features • Fastest internet in Ras Al Khaimah • Jannah Spa beds equipped with the finest 450 thread count linen • Villas with private pools and gardens • Organic Jannah bath amenities • Stylishly integrated and fully-equipped kitchen • Balconies or terraces • Laundry and shoe shine services • Legendary Karim butler services • Car parking facilities

Leisure Facilities • Direct access to recreational, dining and retail outlets, located along the promenade • Direct access to the pools and private beach • Direct access to basketball and tennis courts • Direct access to Mina Al Arab oasis walk and children playground • Kiosk or a “snack buggy/truck” for refreshments • Non-motorized water sports including stand up paddle, kayaking as well as beach tennis or beach football

Accessibility • A leisurely walk away from the pristine beachfront • 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport

Legendary Karim butler service Well connected and up to date with everything in RAK, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Karims are available to provide bespoke services any time of the day: • Unpacking suitcases, organizing laundry upon arrival • Personalizing requests throughout the stay • Replenishing the refrigerator based on personal requirements • Offering shoe-shine services • Providing preferred local daily newspaper • Arranging any celebrations during the stay • Tailoring dining experiences • Preparing a relaxing foam bath with Jannah’s signature scent, towel art and scented candles • “Karim’s Good Morning”: choice of coffee or tea delivered to the room after a wake-up call • Facilitating contributions to “Al Ihsan” through a choice of charities

100 Suites The spacious suites decorated in a contemporary style with Mediterranean influence, with Fendi and Chanel designs, range from 41 to 140 square meters, offering stunning views of the marina and the pool.

The suites feature fully-equipped living and dining areas and signature Jannah Spa beds.