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
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)
11:00 AM – Brunch at Boons Brasserie & Bar, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island.
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: Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island
1:00 PM – Visit Suwaidi Pearls
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)
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
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DAY 2
10:30 AM – Climb Dhayah Fort
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
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
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
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
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