Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah boasts 7,000 years of fascinating history and culture. A short drive from Dubai International, Ras Al Khaimah positions itself as the perfect getaway from everyday life

The first thing you’ll notice is the magnificent landscapes, stunning coastlines and rich, terracotta desert planes – little wonder the Emirate has firmly established itself as one of the most authentic destinations in the Middle East. With year-long sunshine and 64 kilometres of white sandy beaches and situated just 45 minutes from the busy metropolis of Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah offers an entirely unique experience from its neighbouring Emirates

ADVENTURE Jais Flight, the eponymously named longest zipline adventure in the world, is located atop the cloud-piercing Jebel Jais mountain peak in Ras Al Khaimah, the northern-most Emirate in the United Arab Emirates. If you are a thrill-seeker, you will enjoy the adrenalinefuelled experience that takes you at knee-trembling speeds of between 120 kmph and 150 kmph for almost three hair-raising minutes across deep ravines and canyons and through jagged peaks that lie 1,680 metres above sea level.

The Warrior Group is the exclusive operator of Jais Flight. The professionally trained team is committed to affording you the most exciting flying experience whilst providing the highest standards of excellence and safety. Torroverde strives to protect the environment and harmonise with nature; they are leaders in ethical tourism and ask you to follow their lead. Each participant will be fitted correctly with the right oversuit and superhero-style horizontal harness, which allows you to fly 2.83 km aerodynamically at high speeds. The fastest flight section takes you to a nine-tonne, glass-bottomed, Insta-worthy platform, which resembles a hovering bird of prey suspended 80 metres above the ground. From here, your final flight will be the much shorter and relatively sedate onekilometre zipline, which finally takes you to terra firma at the foot of the mountains. AUTHENTICITY This secret haven has been designed for the discerning customer desiring a traditional magical experience of the Arabian Desert fused with indulgence and luxury. The Bedouin Oasis is an authentic reproduction of Bedouin life just as it used to be. With a surreal, simple ambiance, it’s a place for everybody to enjoy a multitude of activities during their stay.

SOPHISTICATION The Suwaidi Pearls Farm was established in 2005 by prominent Emirati Abdulla Al Suwaidi and is the first farm of its kind in the Gulf region. The farm cultivates the Pinctada radiata, otherwise known as the Gulf pearl oyster, using locally sourced mollusks, which live in the natural creek in Al Rams.

Abdulla Al Suwaidi’s family has been intrinsically linked to the jewel of the ocean for over 7,000 years and his late grandfather, Mohammed Bin Abdulla Al-Suwaidi, was the last pearl diver of the UAE.

The first of its kind in the UAE, Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm produces more than 100,000 pearls each year. Visitors to the farm learn how pearls are cultivated and are given the opportunity to open an oyster. If the oyster contains a pearl, then the visitor gets to keep it!

ACCOMMODATION Ras Al Khaimah welcomes you with a wide range of hotels and resorts, which cater for all tastes and budgets. From the authentic Bedouin experience of sleeping under canvas in the heart of the desert to contemporary five-star luxury – accommodation in the emirate is second to none.

Enjoy traditional Emirati hospitality in a stylish boutique hotel; experience royal treatment in a world-class resort; or unwind in an oasis of calm at a pampering retreat. Whatever accommodation you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Ras Al Khaimah. Whether you’re a couple, family, adventurer or easy-going soul, an authentic Arabian awaits you.

The first Waldorf Astoria hotel in the UAE, the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, opened its doors to international travellers in 2013 and has gained a reputation as one of the UAE’s leading hotels since then. As part of the prestigious brand Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, the hotel is part of an exclusive collection of properties known for offering true Waldorf service. Set in an extraordinary location – cradled by the crimson Al-Hajar Mountains, vast expanses of desert, the vibrant grassy plains of the Al Hamra championship golf course and the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea – adventure is literally on the doorstep.

The Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah offers unparalleled facilities for guests, including: seven stylish dining and entertainment venues; sophisticated conference and event spaces; and award-winning spa experiences. The rooms and suites are palatial; inspired by the grand palaces of Arabia and complete with sea or golf course views. There’s also 350 metres of private beach; two temperaturecontrolled pools (including an adults-only pool); indoor and outdoor Pearl Kids Club; babysitting services; water sports activities; and a Waldorf Astoria Spa with floatation bed, VIP couples' treatment room, and signature herbal sauna.

Ideal for leisure getaways with world-class service, stylish signature restaurants and palatial accommodation.

HILTON RAS AL KHAIMAH BEACH RESORT proudly resides in its own secluded cove and boasts spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf to the west and Suraya Islands and the Jebel Jais mountain peak to the north. The multi-award-winning resort is set in 1.5 kilometres of golden sands and boasts 471 guest rooms and villas, numerous eateries, outdoor swimming pools, sports and water sports centres and a spa. The excellent location is a short drive away from the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, bustling souks, fish, vegetable and fruit markets and a traditional shipwright. The beach resort is the ideal destination for exploring the Jebel Jais mountain peak, the time-honoured village of Al Rams and the glorious Suraya Islands as well as discovering the historic Suwaidi Pearl Farm.

THE SPAis an oasis of calm with nine treatment rooms, two hammam Moroccan baths, a Jacuzzi®, sauna and a steam room. There are also pampering body treatments, rejuvenating facials and blissful massages using Esse products.

HILTON FITNESS takes a personalised approach to help you feel at your best during your stay. Stay fit and active with yoga and aerobics classes, have a leisurely swim in one of the seven swimming pools and enjoy a great range of water sports.

TEENS AND CHILDREN FACILITIES Kids’ club – The Tree House and *Teens club – The Hide. Children can enjoy water slides, an outdoor playground and indoor playrooms with supervised games, while teens will enjoy video game stations, an interactive karaoke box and even a manicure bar. *An access fee of AED 15 applicable.

If you fancy something a little less fancy than Dubai, set amongst magnificent landscapes and white sandy beaches (not to mention year-long sunshine), then give Ras Al Khaimah a try.

There’s plenty to do if you want to explore – whether you’re looking for adventure on the highest zip-wire in the world, a boat trip to Suwaidi Pearl Farm, a ride to the museum, sleeping under the stars or simply grabbing some rest and relaxation, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

And if you do want to take a trip to Dubai, it’s only 45 minutes away. So, what’s not to like?