Ras al-Khaimah

Nothing is impossible

“We, in the UAE, have no such word as “impossible”; it does not exist in our lexicon. Such a word is used by the lazy and the weak, who fear challenges and progress. When one doubts his potential and capabilities as well as his confidence, he will lose the compass that leads him to success and excellence, thus failing to achieve his goal. I require you, youth, to insist on number one.”

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE

United Arab Emirates

Updated:

2nd Jul 2017

Ras al-Khaimah lies to the north of the UAE, bordering Oman's enclave of Musandam. It covers an area of 1,684 square km. The capital city and home of most residents is also called Ras Al Khaimah. The emirate had a population of 263,217 (as of 2008 - it will have grown substantially since), of which around 40% are locals.

Ras al-Khaimah is hot and arid with very hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature is 18 to 25 °C (64 to 77 °F) in January and 29 to 43 °C (84 to 109 °F) in July. However, temperatures often reach 45 °C in the summer; the highest recorded temperature is 48.8 °C (119.8 °F).

If you are an expatriate in RAK it is likely you are employed in Real Estate, Tourism (the emirate is home to multiple five star hotels and beach resorts including Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Rotana or Banyan Tree), Building materials; Manufacturing; the Service sector; or Agriculture and Fisheries - its principle industries.

Ras al-Khaimah is home to some great beaches, mountains, great stretches of desert loved by off roaders, and Mangroves and salt flats which form a large part of the coastal and inland landscape.

The mangroves, which are home to a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, extend right into the Centre of Ras Al Khaimah bringing nature into the city. Kayak excursions are available for visitors.

Schools in Ras al Khaimah are fairly limited, but that is only as expected given the population size. GEMS Education is in the emirate with its Westminster School brand. More schools below.