Exploring Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, on foot
The United Arab Emirates or UAE is known for its glittering skyscrapers and luxury hotels, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, beyond the glitz and glamour lies a hidden gem that is gaining popularity among travellers seeking a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation—Ras Al Khaimah. It’s in the northernmost part of the UAE and, as well as boasting some of the region’s most beautiful and less crowded beaches, you’ll find glorious unspoilt nature inland.
Ras Al Khaimah
Beach at Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah
The Al Hajar mountain range dominates the view from the coast with Jebel Jais, at 1,934m, the tallest peak in the UAE. A winding, twisting road leads up into the mountains, the views getting better all the time. Thrill seekers are well catered for with the Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline, reaching speeds of up to 150 km/h. For the faint hearted, the Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park provides stunning panoramic views of the sea and nearby peaks.
Zipline
Zipline
Zipline
Mountains and Sea
But the best way of experiencing the mountains is on foot and the annual HIGHLANDER RAK adventure event showcases the emirate’s diverse terrain, from rocky mountain paths to verdant wadis. At its most extreme it requires three days of trekking over a distance of around 50km with a full backpack. I’m taking a shorter option, around half the distance, but all in one day.
Beaches and Desert Adventures
RAK’s coastline stretches along the Arabian Gulf, offering pristine beaches with soft white sand and clear turquoise waters. All perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as kayaking and jet skiing. I spend a few days by the beach and visit Suwaidi Pearls, where they farm these jewels, near the small fishing village of Al Rams.
Beach
Pearl Boat
Pearls
Venturing into the desert, Ras Al Khaimah offers thrilling experiences like dune bashing, camel trekking, and sandboarding. You can even visit a Bedouin-style desert camp where you enjoy traditional Emirati cuisine, watch mesmerizing belly dance performances, and gaze at the star-lit sky.
Camel Racing
A symbol of Emirati heritage and sporting excellence, camel racing has evolved over centuries to become a highly organized and competitive sport, complete with the latest technology. Situated just outside Ras Al Khaimah’s city centre, the Al Sawan Camel Racetrack is surrounded by rolling dunes and traditional Bedouin camps.
Camels
Camels
Camels
Camel Track
In the past, child jockeys were used, but now the camels are ridden by remote-controlled robots. Operated remotely by trainers driving alongside the track, they encourage the camels to run at speeds up to 65 km/h. Races usually take place early in the morning, with the cool desert air creating perfect conditions for both camels and spectators.
HIGHLANDER Rak 2025 Adventure
HIGHLANDER is a globally recognized long-distance hiking event that emphasizes self-reliance, environmental stewardship, and cultural immersion. The RAK 2025 event has three distinct formats, the most challenging requires backpacking 50 kms in three days. I choose the Lycra option, covering 25km of much of the same ground but all in one day. It’s still going to be tough but doesn’t require a heavy pack with tent and sleeping bag.
HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER
I arrive at the start point just before dawn and pick up snacks and extra water before setting out with a small group. There’s low cloud, even drops of rain, as we climb uphill. The track is clear and well-marked which means there’s no danger of getting lost. The group soon spreads out, as everybody sets their own pace, and I’m free to enjoy the serenity of the mountains.
HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER
As the sun comes up, there’s partial cloud cover, ideal conditions for the walk, warm but not hot. Soon I’m striding along the Al Hajar ridge, the scenery bleak but stunning. After around an hour there’s a checkpoint with additional water and from then on I’m on my own. Now comes a steep descent but steps have been cut into the rock making it manageable.
HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER
As the morning progresses, the clouds disperse and the second of the trail is in full sun. I traverse a wide valley with a campsite where the others have stayed overnight. Visibility is so good that I can see the end point, down in the valley, a long time before I reach it. This becomes something of a torture, with some quite steep descents on gravel slopes, requiring full concentration
HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER
I’ve been making good time, but begin to slow on this last stretch, my knees starting to ache. After seven hours of magnificent walking, I finally reach the finish line where some of my fellow hikers are waiting to greet me. It feels like a hero’s welcome as I get my certificate stamped. Even better, there’s a cold beer as a just reward.
Factfile
GO: Emirates flies to Dubai direct from London. From there it’s around an hour’s transfer.
STAY: Longbeach Campground offers luxury glamping by the sea in an all-inclusive resort.
Bear Grylls Explorer Camp is in the heart of the mountains and makes a good trekking base.
INFO: HIGHLANDER is an annual event in Ras Al Khaimah that takes place in other countries.
Visit Ras Al Khaimah has information about the country.
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