Ras Al Khaimah

Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest peak, with the world's longest zipline, plus the Hajar Mountains, beach resort islands, desert camps and historic forts.

Ras Al Khaimah is the UAE's northernmost emirate, backed by the Hajar Mountains and facing the Persian Gulf, about an hour's drive from Dubai. It combines beaches, desert, mountains and heritage sites: in the east, Jebel Jais is the UAE's highest peak, with a winding road leading up to a viewing platform at nearly 1,900 m, and on the mountain you'll find the world's longest zipline, Jais Flight, along with a mountain toboggan and an adventure camp; along the southwest coast, Marjan Island and Al Hamra are home to most of the beach resorts; the Al Wadi desert in the south has red dunes and desert camps; and the city and the north offer the National Museum, Dhayah Fort, the Shimal archaeological site and the pearl-diving village of Jazirat Al Hamra. The best season is Oct–Apr, with daytime temperatures of 20–30°C; on the summit winter temperatures can drop into single digits, so bring a jacket. May–Sep is extremely hot and humid on the coast, suitable only for indoor and early-morning activities. Most people get around by self-drive or hired car with driver; Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has limited routes, so most visitors drive or take an intercity bus from Dubai Airport. Plan on 3–4 days: one day on Jebel Jais, one for forts and heritage sites, and the rest at the beach or in the desert. Dress modestly, and during Ramadan avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.

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