Ras al Khaimah (also Ra`s al Chaima) is one of the seven United Arab Emirates. It is only around 1700 square kilometers and although it is less well known than Dubai, for example, it is enjoying growing popularity with tourists from all over the world.
Dubai’s little sister has more lush vegetation, more interesting flora and fauna. The emirate is generally less hectic, much more relaxed, and also cheaper in terms of price-performance ratio. On the 65 kilometers of the coast there are great hotels and spas, often strung together like pearls on a string with spectacular architecture. A large part of the country is desert, partly with huge sand dunes, partly rocky desert. But even this region is not hostile and desolate but very interesting with animal and plant species that display amazing survival strategies.
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In the north are the mighty Hajar Mountains with the highest mountain in the Emirates, the 1910 meter high Jebel Jais. It is a popular destination for excursions and is easily accessible by car. There are picturesque mountain villages on its flanks and the region’s bizarre rock formations are also unique. You also should definitely visit the National Museum of the Emirate of Ras al Khaimah in the Al Hisn Fort. It tells the interesting story of the seafaring and pirate people of the Qawasim, who once lived in the region and gave the state its name.
The Ahmed bin Majid Maritime Museum is also interesting. Times long past come to life in the old town of Ras al Khaimah City. There are still ancient houses made of coral stone. To visit the old palace of the ruling family, an old mosque, and a fort. The “Sheikh Muhammad bin Salim Road” and the “Sidroh Street” with their picturesque souk are particularly worth seeing in the old town.
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Local products, herbs, and spices as well as clothing, jewelry, and antiques are sold here. The old fish market is also great. Where you can marvel at the fresh catch of the night especially early in the morning and see fish that are completely unknown in Europe. The ghost town of Jazirat al Hamra, about 20 kilometers from the capital, is also worth a visit. Abandoned about 50 years ago, it has been home to fishermen and wealthy pearl traders for centuries.
Around 100 of the abandoned buildings still exist and show how the residents of Ras al Khaimah lived before the oil boom.
The village of Khatt is not on the coast but in the Hajar Mountains. It is known for its particularly delicious dates and is famous for its thermal springs, which existed in ancient times. Today there is a large holiday resort with a spa here.
Nonetheless, Khatt has retained its peace and tranquility and is worth a trip with its archaeological sites, old defenses, and irrigation systems. On the other hand, tourists experience the new Ras al Khaimah on the camel racetrack. It is one of the best racetracks in the Emirates. The Camel Race Festival takes place here every February. The racing season runs from November to the end of April. But you can also look around the facility outside of this time.
Ajman, the smallest and poorest of the emirates in the United Arab Emirates, is just 30 kilometers southwest of Dubai. Still largely unknown as a tourist destination, Ajman is the ideal destination to spend a quiet, relaxed beach holiday far away from mass tourism.
The much lower prices of hotels compared to Dubai and the close proximity to the metropolis. They speak well for Ajman when choosing a holiday destination. In order to get to your hotel quickly after the long flight, it is advisable to have booked the transfer in advance. If this service is not already included in the package tour.
The miles of white sandy beaches of Ajman and the clear waters of the Persian Gulf invite you to relax and unwind. The skyscrapers rise meters high behind the beaches and offer an interesting view of the capital Ajman city. Ajman City, on the other hand, offers few sights but is still worth seeing. This is where modern and original, oriental architecture meets and gives the city its own special charm. A visit to the well-preserved fortification system shows a comprehensive insight into the times before the oil was found in the United Arab Emirates. Even today you can still experience typical oriental life at the markets in Ajman City.
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Here, as in all other Arab bazaars, bargaining is almost a must. Cheap gold jewelry can be found in gold souks. Here too, action should be taken. To get a good price, of course. In contrast, the modern Ajman City Center shopping center attracts 68 air-conditioned shops. Its visit is quite pleasant given the subtropical outside temperatures in the United Arab Emirates. From Ajman, you can quickly and easily plan a day trip to the surrounding Emirates. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah are a short drive away. You should definitely not miss a city tour through the impressive city of Dubai. To get all the important sights and imposing buildings shown. In nearby Sharjah, on the other hand, you can still experience a lot of tradition, culture, and oriental flair.
Another possibility for excursions spreads out directly behind Ajman: the desert.
Driving across the huge landscape of sand dunes on a desert safari and having a barbecue together as the grand finale of the tour is very popular with tourists. A visit to a typical oasis should not be missing during a vacation in Ajman. In Al Ain, you can find not only this but also a camel market, a visit to which is an experience for travelers.
