AE
Ras Al Khaimah
The UAE’s northernmost emirate: Jebel Jais, the world’s longest zipline, hilltop forts and beach resorts
The UAE’s northernmost emirate: Jebel Jais, the world’s longest zipline, hilltop forts and beach resorts
⚠️ Travel advisory: check before you go
In September 2026 the US raised its advice to “reconsider travel” for this region because of tensions involving Iran. Flights and tourism are operating normally, but airspace closures and cancellations can happen at short notice, so keep plans flexible and travel insurance in place.
Latest official advice: UK FCDO · US State Department · Reviewed September 2026
A winding road climbs the mountain, where temperatures are noticeably cooler than on the coast. Jais Flight, certified by Guinness in 2018 as the world’s longest zipline at 2.83km, launches from near the top.
Book the zipline in advance; weight and height limits apply.
Photo: Ouremiratesjourney, CC BY-SA 4.0
The UAE’s only remaining hilltop fort sits above a date-palm oasis, with views over the plain to the sea. It was the scene of a battle with a British force in 1819.
Climb early or late to avoid the heat.
Photo: Balaji Rai, CC BY-SA 4.0
This former pearling and fishing village, abandoned in the late 20th century, keeps coral-stone houses, mosques and a watchtower.
Photo: Bin Al Stroker, CC BY 3.0
The waterfront promenade along the creek is popular for evening walks, with views of moored dhows and the old town.
Photo: Ulises Icardi, CC BY-SA 4.0
The rugged mountains behind the coast have hiking trails, viewpoints and wadis.
Carry plenty of water.
Photo: Angela Manthorpe, CC BY-SA 4.0
Emirati dishes such as machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish) and luqaimat (sweet dumplings) are served in local restaurants, alongside plentiful Indian, Pakistani and Lebanese food.
Resorts on Al Marjan Island and the beaches have a wide range of restaurants.
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has some international flights, but most visitors fly into Dubai, about an hour away by road. Buses run between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.
A car or taxi is needed for Jebel Jais, the forts and the heritage village.
The UAE uses the dirham (AED). Ras Al Khaimah is cheaper than Dubai.
Three days for the mountains, heritage and beach.
Drive up Jebel Jais for the views and the zipline.
Visit Dhayah Fort and Al Jazirat Al Hamra, then the Corniche at sunset.
Relax on the beach or at Al Marjan Island.
Avoid outdoor activities in summer afternoons.
Hire a car to explore.
Dress modestly away from resorts.
Jebel Jais is cooler; bring a layer.
Quick answers for planning time in Ras Al Khaimah.
About an hour by road.
A zipline on Jebel Jais, certified by Guinness as the world’s longest at 2.83km.
An abandoned pearling and fishing village with coral-stone houses.
Yes; it is the UAE’s only remaining hilltop fort, with wide views.
November to March, when temperatures are mild.
Planning a wider trip? Our UAE travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.