Adventurous Camel
Adventure starts here....
About Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah, often abbreviated as RAK, is the northernmost of the United Arab Emirates (one of seven) and boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its pristine beaches caressing the shores of the Arabian Gulf, the majestic Hajar Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop, and ancient archaeological sites telling tales of millennia past, the emirate offers a unique blend of serene landscapes and dynamic modernity.
Unlike the glass and steel skyscrapers that dominate the skylines of its neighboring emirates, Ras Al Khaimah offers a more relaxed and authentic experience of the Arabian Peninsula. Here, traditional dhows sail along tranquil creeks, age-old forts stand as silent witnesses to bygone eras, and bustling souks entice visitors with aromatic spices, perfumes, and intricate handicrafts.
RAK's burgeoning tourism industry is reflective of its diverse attractions, from luxurious beach resorts and world-class golf courses to thrilling desert safaris and adventure activities in the Hajar Mountains. As it steadily carves its niche as a premium destination, Ras Al Khaimah remains true to its roots, ensuring that visitors experience both the modern comforts and the rich Emirati heritage that this gem of the UAE has to offer. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a cultural immersion, or an adrenaline-packed adventure, RAK promises an unforgettable journey.
What will you find here?
History
-The Maritime Legacy & British Involvement
-Geopolitical Shifts in the 19th Century
Overview
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is one of the seven emirates forming the United Arab Emirates. Located in the northern part of the country, it's named after its capital city. "Ras Al Khaimah" translates to "headland of the tent". The city is divided by a creek into two primary areas: the Old Town and Nakheel. Beyond the city limits,
RAK houses several villages, new residential areas, and is framed by the stunning North-Western Hajar Mountains.
Archaeological Significance
RAK's historical significance is deep-rooted, boasting continuous human habitation for 7,000 years, a rarity both in the country and globally. The emirate is dotted with numerous historical and archaeological sites. Particularly in the area of Shimal, one can find relics from the Umm Al Nar and Wadi Suq civilizations. These sites paint a vivid picture of the region's ancient lifestyle,
trade, and customs.
Julfar & Emergence of RAK
Julfar (means pearl), the medieval port city, serves as a testament to RAK's vibrant trading history. Over time, as Julfar's harbor silted up, the region now known as RAK expanded and eventually enveloped the areas that were once part of Julfar. Julfar was significant not only for trade but also because of its inhabitants, like Ibn Majid, an influential navigator and cartographer.
The Maritime Legacy & British Involvement
The 18th century was turbulent for RAK, marked by maritime confrontations. British accounts labeled the region as 'The Pirate Coast', pointing fingers at the Al Qasimi clan's supposed maritime piracy. However, historical interpretations vary. Some view the Al Qasimi as a significant maritime force, with territories on
both the Persian and Arabian coasts, which naturally led to conflicts with British trade routes. As tensions escalated, the British launched two notable campaigns: the Persian Gulf campaigns of 1809 and 1819, aimed at diminishing the Al Qasimi influence.
Geopolitical Shifts in the 19th Century
The 19th century saw a pivot in RAK's geopolitical tatus. The General Maritime Treaty of 1820 with the British marked the end of piracy and the beginning of the British protectorate era over the Trucial States. Despite RAK asserting its independence in 1869, the subsequent years witnessed it being merged with Sharjah until 1921.
Integration into the UAE
RAK's modern era dawned with its pivotal decision to join the United Arab Emirates in 1972, after initial hesitations and geopolitical challenges, including issues related to the territories of Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunbs. Today, RAK stands as a testament to its rich past while forging ahead with a vision for the future.
A Brief Guide to Clothing in the UAE
If this is your first time to the UAE, you may be asking yourself exactly what clothing is appropriate, or not, when it comes to packing your suitcase. Arrival at the airport will not put your mind at ease as you will find every type of exotic clothing under the sun from every corner of the globe, some of which may look like your own, but most will probably not! Come to the passport control and there you are faced with a long row of security staff wearing the flowing white and black robes of the local traditional dress.
This can be pretty intimidating at first, but you soon find out the truth…. the UAE is a thriving international city and all you are seeing is the traditional dress of its local and diverse international population. A cultural zoo is the UAE, in every good way possible.
So, first thing’s first, what are the names of the traditional UAE garments:
Kundura / Dishdasha: The long, glowing white garment worn by men on the Arabian peninsula, including the UAE. It’s light-weight cotton or wool designed to keep the wearer cool in hot weather. A similar version called the ‘Thobe’ is common in Saudi, Kuwait, and Qatar.
Ghutra: The traditional headscarf worn by the men. It’s generally white or chequered.
Abaya: This is a long, loose-fitting black robe worn by women in the Gulf region. It covers the entire body, except for the face, hands, and feet.
Hijab: This is a headscarf worn by women to cover their hair and
neck. It is widely varying across Arabian countries depending on the region and culture.
Niqab: This is a veil that covers a woman’s face and was worn by women for modesty and privacy.
It’s important not to confuse religion and culture. The official guidance of Islam requires modesty by women, yet how this is achieved comes down to the cultural habits and preferences of the individuals involved. In the UAE today, the niqab is still seen however it is less common. There is also a growing trend for local men and women, particularly in the younger generations, to wear non-traditional western style clothing in some settings.
Dhayah Fort
Dhayah Fort in Ras Al Khaimah is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Positioned amid mountains and date valleys, it offers panoramic views from the oasis to Oman's shores and the sea.
Dhayah Fort, the UAE's sole surviving hill fort, has roots in the Late Bronze Age (1600 – 1300 BC). Built in the 19th century, this golden mud-brick fortress witnessed the pivotal 1819 battle between the British and local Qawasim tribes. Climbing its 239 steps reveals breathtaking views of the date palm gardens, Jebel Jais mountains, and the heart of the Dhayah oasis.
Below, a larger fort housed those from nearby palm gardens during threats. Watchtowers throughout the oasis ensured seamless communication. The fort's 70-metre elevation, surrounded by historic watering systems fed by mountain run-offs, is a testament to ancient engineering. Additionally, 12 significant Wadi Suq tombs, four already excavated, showcase Southeast Arabia's funerary architecture. Plans by Ras Al Khaimah's Department of Antiquities envision an archaeology park encompassing this region.
Al Jazeera Al Hamra
Pearls, cherished since prehistoric times, have deep roots in the UAE, as evidenced by Neolithic discoveries. Al Jazeera Al Hamra, translating to "Red Island," stands as the Gulf's lone historical pearling village, with others lost to oil's rise.
Boasting traditional elements like forts, watchtowers, mosques, souqs, and a myriad of residences, this village paints a rich tapestry of architectural styles. From modest abodes to opulent merchant mansions, structures utilized indigenous materials, such as coral blocks, mangrove beams, and seashell layers for drainage. Circa 1900, the village sheltered around 500 houses, occupied mainly by the Zaab tribe. Its leader, Sheikh Rajib bin Ahmed Al Zaabi, was a key signatory to the pivotal 1820 treaty with the British.
Historically an island, Al Jazeera Al Hamra hosted the vibrant Zaab tribe with a prolific pearling fleet and livestock. However, the pearl industry's decline in the 1920s marked a shift. Valuable archaeological finds include an ancient 20-domed mosque, captured in 1820s British cartography. With intricate plaster screens, ornate archways, and the signature wind tower or barjeel for passive cooling, the village exemplifies millennia of Middle Eastern architectural evolution. Now on UNESCO's Tentative List, it's a testament to regional town planning.
Yet, the oil boom of the late 1960s and early 1970s saw its inhabitants depart. Today's open-air museum, though rich in history, stands fragile. Visitors are urged to tread carefully, refraining from venturing into unstable buildings. Respect the site's heritage by not removing any items and visiting only during daylight for safety.
Mohammed bin Salim Mosque
Archaeological excavations at the site of the Mohammed Bin Salem Mosque unearthed evidence of a previous mosque from the late 18th century. This aligns with historical records that suggest the presence of a mosque here as far back as the 16th century. The 18th-century structure was unfortunately destroyed during the British occupation in 1819/20, but a new mosque was soon erected atop its foundations. Over the years, the mosque has seen several renovations. In recent restoration efforts, contemporary additions were stripped away to reveal and restore its original coral stone and beach rock architecture, which was then coated with layers of traditional plaster.
Desert Safari
Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE offers a glimpse into the Arabian Desert, where Bedouin Camps and Desert Villages nestle among rolling dunes. This landscape is painted in vivid shades of flame and terracotta.
Bedouin life, dating back to 2500-3000 BC, is a testament to adaptation and resilience in the harsh desert. Their nomadic lifestyle is characterized by portable tents woven from goat, camel, or sheep hair, providing shelter from the desert's extremes.
Evenings in the desert resonate with cultural richness. Bedouins recite ancestral poetry, echoing through the dunes, and their traditions include welcoming dances and hospitality, offering guests dates, coffee, and stories.
The Bedouin culinary tradition, relying on local staples like goat meat and rice, is prepared using age-old techniques that imbue the food with unique flavors.
Today's visitors can dive into this rich cultural tapestry with camel rides, sandboarding, and enjoying Bedouin cuisine. The experience is rounded off with modern adventures like 4x4 dune bashing, creating a memorable blend of tradition and excitement.
Al Sawan Camel Racetrack
In the UAE, camels are not just animals but symbols of Bedouin and Emirati pride, integral to their history for providing meat, milk, wool, leather, and transportation. Their significance extends beyond practicality to cultural realms, notably in camel racing and even in the belief in the medicinal properties of camel urine.
Camel racing in Ras Al Khaimah pays homage to this deep-rooted bond. The camels, chosen from specific breeds like the Mahaliyat, Omniyat,and Sudaniyat from the UAE, Oman, and Sudan, are renowned for their racing prowess, reaching speeds up to 65 km/h. The excitement of race mornings in the Digdaga and Hamraniya areas is palpable, with trainers and owners vying for grand prizes, including luxury cars and cash rewards. The racecourse is a spectacle, with 50 to 100 camels adorned in colorful
tribal blankets, casting long shadows in the early sunlight.
Incorporating modern advancements, the races now feature robot jockeys, equipped with sensors and radios, replacing the traditional young jockeys. This melding of tradition with technology provides trainers with valuable data and adds a contemporary layer to the ancient sport.
The races are not just about the camels; alongside the track, 4WDs race, with trainers cheering for their camels, adding to the dynamic and exhilarating atmosphere. Ras Al Khaimah's camel racing is a vivid display of tradition and innovation, offering an unforgettable experience.
Ras Al Khaimah offers a unique experience with Jebel Jais Mountain peak, standing nearly two kilometers above the Arabian Gulf. This area isn't just known for its breathtaking views but also for its rich history spanning over 70 million years. Jebel Jais, ancient and mysterious,teems with life, from agile mountain goats and majestic eagles to vocal donkeys.
The mountain offers various trails covering 16km, suitable for both novice and seasoned hikers. These trails allow you to explore the diverse ecosystem of the upper and lower mountain regions. However, proper preparation is essential. A good head for heights, decent fitness, and appropriate hiking shoes are crucial for safety.
Important safety tips include selecting trails that accommodate all group members, being aware of Jebel Jais's unique microclimate, especially in winter, hiking with a companion for emergency support, informing someone about your hiking plans and expected return, staying on marked trails with a map, staying hydrated, and wearing sturdy, grippy footwear and layered clothing for varying temperatures.
In summary, Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah is a blend of adventure and natural wonder. With the right preparation and safety measures, it promises to be an exhilarating and memorable hiking experience.
Jebel Jais: Sledders
The Jais Sledder offers an adrenaline-infused journey, hurtling down the stunning Hajar mountain range. With riders reaching speeds up to 40 kmph, the experience is heightened by the proximity to the ground, making every twist and turn feel even faster. This 1,840-meter descent, filled with hairpin turns and rolling waves, takes about eight thrilling minutes to complete. Each sled, designed to accommodate two riders is equipped with a safety harness, ensuring utmost security. Furthermore, riders have control over the sled's braking system, enhancing the experience's safety and fun.
Jebel Jais: Viewing Deck
The Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park is a gateway to a world formed over 70 million years ago, offering stark contrasts from moon-like deserts to lush date palm farms. The 30 km climb to the
1,250-meter peak reveals breathtaking views of boulders, craggy terrains, and an ancient mountainrange rich in stories.
The roads to the park are a spectacle in themselves, perfect for driving, motorcycling, or cycling,
winding through red landscapes and dramatic cliffs. At the summit, seven viewing decks and 12
binoculars offer panoramic views of the Hajar mountains, dunes, and the Arabian Gulf. The park, committed to sustainability, uses solar energy for its night lighting.
Jebel Jais: Flight - The Longest Zipline in the world
Jais Flight, located on Jebel Jais mountain, at 2.83km is the world's longest zipline. It offers an exhilarating experience, flying over rugged terrains and valleys at speeds up to 160 kmph, 1680 metres above the Arabian Gulf. This three-minute journey offers a unique thrill, with speeds ranging between 120 kmph and 160 kmph over dramatic canyons and peaks of RAK.
The professional team ensures safety with specialized gear. Participants wear an over-suit and a horizontal harness for a flying sensation. The fastest part of the zipline ends on a glass-bottomed platform, 80 metres above ground, ideal for photos. The adventure concludes with a 1km zipline back to the base.
Jebel Jais: Sky Tour
Embark on the Jais Sky Tour, an exhilarating journey across six ziplines, with lengths varying from 337 metres to over a kilometer. Zipping through at an average speed of 60kmph, adventurers get a taste of flight that's not for the weak-hearted. Located at a height of over 1,600 metres, the Jais Sky Tour challenges thrill-seekers with a sequence of ziplines, providing a panoramic view of the vast Hajar Mountain range. While soaring, participants wear harnesses designed to minimize wind resistance, enhancing the flying experience.
Spanning approximately 2 hours, this adventure connects seven platforms via six ziplines. The pinnacle is the sky bridge, suspended 300 metres above the ground.
Bear Grylls Explorer Camp
Located in Ras Al Khaimah's mountains, the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp offers adrenaline-packed adventures with survival techniques taught by experts. The camp, inspired by Bear Grylls OBE, equips participants with skills for mountain and desert survival.
Designed for individuals, families, or teams, the camp offers challenges based on Bear's survival teachings, with bespoke options for special groups. It focuses on BritishForces' survival tactics, promoting self-rescue methods and pushing limits.
Key features include survival courses in Jebel Jais mountains, using Bear's methods. Requirements include one adult and one child (8-17 years). The camp provides rustic accommodations in Jebel Jais, including lodging, meals, and equipment. Completing a course earns a Bear Grylls badge, neck tube, and certificate. Weather affects activities.
For less adventurous guests, the camp offers climbing, abseiling, archery, and a ropes course. The Jais Ropes Course is an obstacle maze 10 meters off the ground. Bear Grylls Explorers Camp combines adventure with comfort.
