Ras al-Khaimah Holidays 2012

Ras al-Khaimah is a beautiful country in the northern Arabian Gulf, situated between the Persian Gulf and the Haijar Mountains. It borders Oman and Dubai, so it’s a great place to stop over while traveling in the Middle East or to visit on its own!

The city itself is split into two sections;  Nakheel and Old Ras al Khaimah. Each will offer you a varying experience. In the old quarter, you can find many interesting shops selling local goods and restaurants. If you’re in the UAE (United Arab Emirates), remember there is no sales tax on goods bought within the region. Shopping is best found in Dubai which is about an hour away, if you want  designer goods.

Food is great in either district, and water quality in the region is good; you can still buy bottled water if you’re squeamish though for decent prices. Check out some traditional Shawarma (mixed grill with grain, meat and vegetables) restaurants if you’re on a budget or diet, they’re spicy and low in calories. Grilled chicken stands and restaurants abound in Ras al-Khaimah, and you can get them with Khubz (bread), hummus, and even spicy relish.

Nightlife can be found here as well, but be careful! You can only buy alcohol in restaurants and hotels if you’re a tourist, but not in an alcohol shop. You’ll need a friend who’s a resident with an alcohol buyer’s card to get this for you, the shops will check and get upset if you try to get liquor without the card. Drinking and driving is a serious offense in Ras al-Khaimah, so if you’re too drunk to drive home remember you can always get a nice, clean, air-conditioned taxi to take you home at any time of night.

The main focus of holiday in Ras al-Khaimah is the beaches. The water is crystal clear, the beaches sandy and white, and a remote experience if you look for it. If you’re looking for sunbathing, it might be idea to buy a day pass to a private beach at a resort; women wandering about in bathing suits can offend locals and bring unwanted attention.  Walk around the major resort areas and you will find diving instructors who will teach you to snorkel/dive and rent you kit to get you going.

Ras al-Khaimah is a great place to visit, but keep personal safety in mind. If you’re female, do not wander into strange areas on your own. The crime rate is low, but as always observe general safety rules that you would follow in any other city.