Rest and relaxation

Aside from a wealth of cultural attractions and outdoor pursuits, RAK is the perfect destination for recharging your batteries. Blue skies, shimmering sunshine and 64kms of pristine sandy coastline combine with a bewitching hinterland of desert and mountains to create a tranquil setting for rest and relaxation. A collection of modern hotels and resorts provide all the facilities a traveller could wish for just a stone's throw from the warm crystalline waters of the Arabian Gulf. For some serious pampering, travellers can choose from a clutch of spa resorts offering a range of rejuvenating treatments to nurture your wellbeing.

Chief among RAK's spa experiences, the natural hot springs at Khatt are renowned for their healing properties. Channelled into the pebble-floored pools of the Harmony Ayurveda Centre, the mineralised waters bubble up from 90 feet underground and are said to cure a number of ailments. Ayurvedic spa treatments compliment the healing thermal waters and entrance is free to guests staying at the Golden Tulip Khatt Springs Hotel and Spa, which manages the springs.
Visitors to Ras al Khaimah also have ample opportunities to enjoy a relaxing round of golf or a peaceful cruise on the ocean. The emirate has two 18-hole championship golf courses – the Tower Links Golf Club and Al Hamra Golf Club. Set amid four lagoons that merge with the Arabian Gulf, the Al Hamra Golf Club is the ideal place to unwind and offers everything from beginner's lessons to golf under the stars. Tower Links Golf Club has an equally beautiful setting between mangroves and majestic mountains. Both cater to members and non-members and have clubhouses and restaurants.

Another great way to relax in RAK is to take a catamaran or yacht cruise along the picturesque coastline. You can charter a yacht from Ras al Khaimah corniche or join a sunset cruise for dinner and cocktails, spend a day snorkelling and cavorting in the translucent waters or take a tailored fishing trip on the catamaran yacht Freedom. For a day of soothing sun, sea and sand in a specially-designed beach haven, take the ferry to the newly-created Al Marjan islands and luxuriate on soft golden sands gently shelving into the clear calm ocean, with top-notch tourist facilities close to hand.

Practical tips

Due to the hot climate it's advisable to bring clothing in lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen with you on holidays to Ras al Khaimah. Although it is hot during the day, it's also a good idea to bring a cardigan or light jacket as most indoor places are air conditioned and temperatures tend to drop steeply at night in the winter, both in the desert and on the coast. Pack a warm layer in the winter if you intend to be outdoors in the desert after dark. At this time of year there can be a dramatic diurnal range, with temperatures varying by as much as 10 degrees between day and night.

When sightseeing, you can respect local customs by wearing conservative clothes such as long shorts and skirts, trousers, pashminas or tops that cover your shoulders. This is particularly true if you are visiting religious sites or in the holy month of Ramadan. Throughout Ramadan it's also worth refraining from eating in public places during the daylight to respect the Muslim custom of fasting until the sun goes down, but most hotels continue to function as normal.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ras al Khaimah a family-friendly destination?
RAK has developed its tourism infrastructure with families in mind and most hotels cater to families with excellent kids clubs, separate pools, playgrounds and fun activities. The emirate's beaches are spotlessly clean, safe and tend to be sheltered with calm, shallow waters perfect for paddling and bucket-and-spade days. Many of the activities on offer in RAK are ideal for family-friendly adventure. Camel rides, desert safaris, falconry shows and theme parks all make for a great family day out.

When is Ramadan is celebrated in RAK?
The dates of Ramadan shift each year depending on the lunar calendar, and precise times are determined by special committees. The religious period usually lasts for 29 to 30 days each year, when Muslims fast during daylight hours. Business hours and opening times are restricted during Ramadan so you may want to check the exact dates before planning your holiday.