24-hour Ras Al Khaimah road trip? Yes, pls
Whether you're trying to escape the city noise, or just want to post dreamy desert sunset content, Ras Al Khaimah is your underrated UAE staycation spot. Just a 1.5-hour drive from Dubai, this northern gem is packed with serene beaches, mountain views, ancient forts and aesthetic vibes for days. Here's your 48-hour guide.
DAY 1
6 AM – ActionFlight Hot Air Balloon
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Start your trip on a literal high with a sunrise balloon ride over RAK's golden deserts. Book with ActionFlight and float above dunes, mountains, and, if you're lucky, some desert wildlife.
Location: Al Wadi Desert (pick-up arranged with booking)
actionflight.ae
11:00 AM – Brunch at Boons Brasserie & Bar, InterContinental RAK
Back on solid ground, head to Boons for a classy-but-casual brunch. Their shakshuka and Nutella-stuffed pancakes are pure joy. Also: very aesthetic interiors.
Location: InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah, Hayat Island
1:00 PM – Visit Suwaidi Pearls
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Time to dive (literally) into local culture. At Suwaidi Pearls, you'll ride a traditional boat through mangroves to the UAE's only pearl farm. Open an oyster, maybe find a pearl, and snap those gorgeous mountain-backed views.
Meeting Point: Al Rams Marina (15 min from city centre)
suwaidipearls.ae
4:00 PM – Spa + Sunset Chill
Back at your hotel, it's time for a massage, a hammam, or just a lazy float in the pool. If you're staying at The Ritz, opt for their desert-facing spa for full main-character feels.
8:00 PM – Dinner at 1484 by Puro
The highest restaurant in the UAE? Check. Epic views of Jebel Jais? Double check. Their truffle pasta and miso salmon are top-tier, and the drive up is just as iconic.
Location: Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park
puro.ae
DAY 2
10:30 AM – Climb Dhayah Fort
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Time for a little hike. Dhayah Fort is the only remaining hilltop fort in the UAE and has some seriously cinematic views. Pro tip: Wear sneakers and bring water.
Location: Dhayah, 20 min from RAK city centre
1:00 PM – Lunch at Al Fanar Restaurant & Café
Serving up authentic Emirati dishes in a nostalgic setting, Al Fanar is where you go for grilled hammour, saffron rice, and vibes. It's like a little time capsule of the UAE's past.
Location: Grove Village, Ras Al Khaimah Corniche
alfanarrestaurant.com
3:00 PM – Last Pool Dip + Checkout
Head back to your hotel for a final lounge in the sun. Order something sparkly, soak it all in, and start mentally planning your next trip back.
Where to Stay: 3 Dreamy RAK Hotels to Check Into
InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa – Hayat Island
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For that five-star, toes-in-the-sand energy, this resort is the one. Think beachfront villas, an infinity pool that belongs on your feed, and a world-class spa. Ideal for a luxe girls' weekend or a chill romantic escape.
Location: Hayat Island, Mina Al Arab
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert – Wadi Khadija
Calling all nature lovers and soft-life queens. Nestled in a desert reserve, this resort serves Bedouin-meets-boujee vibes. Private pool villas, falcon shows, and candlelit desert dinners? Yes please.
Location: Al Mazraa, Wadi Khadija
Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island – Al Marjan Island
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Bright, beachy, and super social, this fun resort has serious girls-trip energy. Whether you're sunbathing at the infinity pool or sipping a mocktail at the beach bar, the mood is always: relaxed but ready to party.
Location: Al Marjan Island Boulevard
Don't miss out on these summer staycation deals around the UAE.
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