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While Dubai and Abu Dhabi attract most of the attention of tourists, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the fourth largest city in the United Arab Emirates, is struggling to take its place among the region’s main attractions. RAK has recently demonstrated significant economic diversification policies, becoming a manufacturing powerhouse across industries such as ceramics, pharmaceuticals, building materials, automotive and petrochemicals. Companies such as RAK C&G Pharmaceutical Industries (Julphar) are headquartered there. It is true that the emergence of free trade zones and industrial zones has attracted foreign investors, but the fastest growing industry is indeed tourism. The emirate has also been designated as the Gulf Tourism Capital by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Harmony of opulence and exotic Arabian style
While other emirates have developed into flamboyant metropolises, RAK has chosen to stick to its traditional culture and offer visitors a more authentic Arabian touch. However, the emirate has a wide variety of accommodation options, from five-star beachfront resorts to affordable motels. Located on a private beach, Cove Rotana is one of the largest and most luxurious of these establishments, offering a unique combination of modern comfort and traditional Arabian hospitality. Visitors can also choose to stay at five-star hotels such as the Waldorf Astoria, Ritz-Carlton, Radisson Blu, DoubleTree by Hilton and the infamous Mina Arabia InterContinental. For most of the year, the emirate is hot and dry, although it does have some beautiful landscapes such as sand dunes, clean beaches and mountains.
From November to February, the temperature is usually below 30 degrees Celsius, so that time of year is perfect for a holiday.
No trip is complete without trying the local cuisine, and visitors to RAK should try traditional Emirati dishes such as mahebus and fare. The UAE is a melting pot of cultures, so in addition to its own unique cuisine, visitors can also enjoy Thai, Italian, Lebanese and Indian cuisine. While RAK is known as a meat lover’s paradise for its juicy steaks and excellent roasts, the city also has a lot to offer vegetarians and vegans. During RAK, you should definitely indulge in the mezze platter that most restaurants serve.
RAK Discovery
If you’re pressed for time but still want to see something truly unique in the area, consider visiting a Bedouin Oasis Camp or Bassata Desert for a true Arabian adventure in the sand dunes with belly dancers, fire eaters, Camel ride and henna tattoo. The Arabian feast, with many different kinds of meat, rice, hummus and other dishes, was a highlight of the trip.
Jebe Jais, the highest peak in the United Arab Emirates, is a great destination for mountain climbing and other extreme activities. There are plenty of things to do here, and a full day is recommended, from exploring on foot or by bike to pulling down Jais Sledder.
Jais Flight is the longest zipline in the world and holds the Guinness World Records, allowing you to return to Earth at speeds of up to 150 km/h. Puro 1484 is the best restaurant in the United Arab Emirates, located on the top floor of Jebel Jais, serving a variety of foreign specialities, refreshing drinks and stunning panoramic views.
Abdulla Al Suwaidi established the Suwaidi Pearl Farm in 2005 to allow visitors from all over the world to learn about the region’s rich pearling tradition.
At the foot of Al Hajar Mountain, visitors can take a classic pearl boat and travel through the mangroves to the drifting pearl farm. Immersive and full of interesting information about pearl farming and harvesting, this experience is highly recommended. If you want to learn more about RAK’s history and culture, the RAK Museum is a good place to start.
If you want to buy anything, such as clothes, fabrics, perfumes, shawls, or even gold jewelry, stop by the souks (markets) on your way back to your hotel.
(edit: Sudarsanammani)
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