Perfect Weekend Getaway: Ras Al Khaimah

by Barbara Yakimchuk

Perfect Weekend Getaway: Ras Al Khaimah

27 Jan 2026

This is the season in the UAE when sitting in front of the TV on a Saturday, or staying in bed until late morning on a Sunday, starts to feel a little… guilty. Not only because the weather is finally on our side and practically begging us to head outdoors, but also because the number of activities on offer is genuinely overwhelming.

While the arts and cultural calendar has you more than covered, there is also that familiar itch — the urge to escape the city, if only briefly. And luckily, it is one that can be perfectly satisfied with a short road trip to Ras Al Khaimah.

So here is your guide to the must-do experiences for next weekend in Ras Al Khaimah — whether you are planning a quick there-and-back day trip or staying overnight to enjoy the emirate to the fullest.

For those craving a bit of adventure: The best hikes

I am not sure whether this is the trend of the year, or if I have simply found myself surrounded by a very sporty crowd — but either way, everyone around me seems to be hiking. Naturally, I started to feel like this might be something worth sharing with you too.

In the UAE, there are essentially three go-to hiking areas: Hatta, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah — with the latter often considered the most picturesque of them all. Below are a few easy-to-moderate trails worth adding to your list.

Tip: Most trails are equipped with at least some basic signage, but it is always a good idea to download an app like AllTrails. It includes most popular trails, shows the full route map and elevation profile, and lets you customise the hike — whether you want to shorten it or extend it depending on how you are feeling.

Source: alltrails.com

Wadi Naqab trail (Moderate level)

I wouldn’t be exaggerating if I said this is one of the most talked-about hiking trails in Ras Al Khaimah. While the difficulty level is fairly moderate, the views are impressive enough to make you fall in love with it very quickly. Canyon walls, natural pools, dramatic rock formations — even listing them doesn’t quite do the place justice.

The trail is around 7 km, with the option to extend it to 10 km, which usually translates to roughly five hours on the move.

A couple of important things to note:

Avoid hiking here after rain, or if rain is forecast.
An offline map is a must — mobile signal is very limited once you are on the trail (and often doesn’t work at all).

Start early, as you may need more time than expected to make your way back.

Photo: Dumitru Godina

Wadi Shawka trails (Easy to moderate level)

Wadi Shawka isn't a single, fixed hike. Located in the Hajar Mountains, it is a wide valley where you can tailor your route, choosing from up to three different trails depending on your ability and energy levels. Options range from beginner-friendly walks of around 1.5 hours (3–5 km) to longer hikes of 7 km or more, with the option to extend your route even further.

Another cool point: it isn't just about hiking — the area is also popular for mountain biking, off-roading, and even overnight camping if you are feeling adventurous.

Source: visitrasalkhaimah.com

Hidden Oasis trail (Moderate level)

This is a true hidden gem within the local hiking community — and once you see the photos, it is immediately clear why. I almost labelled it "easy", but ultimately kept it as "moderate", mainly because the hike usually takes around 2–3 hours (roughly 4–6 km). In every other sense, though, it is very manageable.

The real highlight is the greenery. It genuinely feels like an oasis tucked between the mountains — a rare, almost Italian-style contrast to the surrounding rocky landscape. The trail starts via the Wadi Shawka / Shawka Dam area, making it both accessible and wonderfully rewarding for the effort.

Instagram: @uaebackpackers

Jebel Jais Lower trails (Easy to moderate level)

Jebel Jais isn’t a single trail but rather a network of hiking routes spread across the lower slopes of the UAE’s highest mountain. The trails vary in both length and difficulty, making it a great option whether you are easing into hiking or looking for something more demanding.

The Farfar Trail is under 1 km — perfect as a gentle introduction to the terrain and the surrounding nature. On the other end of the spectrum, the Sidir Trail stretches to around 6 km, with moderate difficulty, changes in altitude, and even the occasional chance of spotting wildlife.

Note: Due to heavy rainfall in December 2025, the Jebel Jais Lower trails are still currently closed. They are expected to reopen very soon, but it’s best to give them a call before heading there (+971 4 815 7333).

Source: visitjebeljais.com

For those heading to Ras Al Khaimah to recharge

Okay, hiking is great — but what if, halfway to Ras Al Khaimah, you realise you are really not in the mood for all that movement? Turn the car around? Absolutely not. There are plenty of slower, gentler options for days when you would rather rest than push yourself.

Jebel Jais Zipline

I will be honest — I have never tried it myself, and I am fairly sure I never will. But for adrenaline lovers, this is the spot. The Jebel Jais Zipline is the longest in the UAE, reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h, with seriously dramatic mountain views to match.

If that sounds like a bit much, but you still want a taste of it, the Jebel Jais Sky Tour (located in the same area) is a much gentler option. You are seated rather than flying head-first, and the speed tops out at around 60 km/h — still exciting, but far less terrifying.

And for those who are firmly on the "no-fear-please" side of life: Jais Sledder is your safe haven. Think alpine coaster rather than extreme ride — smooth, controlled, and even suitable for children.

Source: rasalkhaimahzipline.com

UAE Flower Farm

If your idea of recharging involves zero adrenaline, this is the place to visit. The UAE Flower Farm is calm and quiet — the kind of place that feels better than a therapy session.

Set in a green valley filled with flowers, it is popular for good reason. You can stroll through the gardens, stop for tea, pick your own flower bouquets straight from the fields (for an extra charge), and say hello to the ponies and horses wandering around. A proper switch-off.

Source: glimpsesofuae.com

Ras Al Khaimah Contemporary Art Biennale

This one is time-sensitive — the Biennale runs until February 8, which means you still have two full weekends to catch it and add a quiet dose of art to your weekend escape.

Set in Al Jazeera Al Hamra, once a prosperous pearling village in the 1950s, the location itself is as much a part of the experience as the artworks. For years, the village stood as a beautiful ruin — empty houses, crumbling walls, and a strong sense of history lingering in the air.

For the duration of the Biennale, however, the space is completely transformed. Until February 8, Al Jazeera Al Hamra becomes an open-air gallery, where the weathered walls of former homes now serve as exhibition spaces for contemporary art. This year’s Biennale explores the theme of “Civilisations”, tracing how artistic expression has evolved across time.

Instagram: @rakart.ae

A small bonus: Food spots worth stopping for

Just in case you are wondering where to stop for food on the way to Ras Al Khaimah — or once you have reached the coast — here are three safe, delicious options worth bookmarking:

Eayshat Awal
Mekong
Le Petit Chef

by Barbara Yakimchuk