What to do in RAK

RAK continues to draw big names, and Mondrian is the latest to plant its flag on the shoreline. Known globally for its design-led hotels, the brand is now translating that identity into permanent homes with Mondrian Al Marjan Island Beach Residences, and that alone deserves a closer look. This new project will include 343 residences, from one-bedroom apartments to townhouses and sky villas. One consistent detail across all of them: every unit faces west toward the Arabian Gulf, so open sea views and sunsets are part of the layout. The upper tier of Mondrian Al Marjan Island Beach Residences is...

Rove Hotels has officially opened its doors in Ras Al Khaimah with a brand-new location on Al Marjan Island. Known for its relaxed vibe, mountain views, and long stretches of beach, Ras Al Khaimah has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists — and Rove’s arrival adds another reason to visit. Sitting right on the beachfront, Rove Al Marjan Island brings 441 rooms, many with views of the sea or the island. The rooms are designed to be simple, comfortable, and modern, with touches inspired by local Emirati culture. About a third of the rooms are connected, which...

The Unexpected Hotels & Residences — a bold lifestyle hospitality brand that made waves in Ibiza — is officially heading to the UAE. The new property, The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotels and Residences, is set to open in Ras Al Khaimah by 2027, marking the brand’s regional debut. After the successful launch of The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel, known for its immersive mix of luxury, music, and entertainment, the UAE edition looks set to bring the same vibrant atmosphere to the shores of the Arabian Gulf. The Ras Al Khaimah property will feature 422 guestrooms and suites, all with uninterrupted...

If you’ve been following the development of Wynn Al Marjan Island, you know this place is set to be something special. Along with offering world-class luxury, the resort is also focused on making the journey as smooth as possible for guests. To make sure of that, a 548-meter bridge is being built to connect the resort directly to the UAE’s main highways, including the E311 and E611. That means getting to Wynn Al Marjan Island from Dubai or the Northern Emirates will be easier than ever. The bridge is already halfway completed and on track to be finished by late...

Ras Al Khaimah is continuing to raise the bar. Already home to some of the UAE’s most anticipated developments, the northern emirate is set to welcome a new global name into its coastal landscape. Giorgio Armani has officially confirmed plans to launch the world’s first Armani-branded beach villas in Ras Al Khaimah. These exclusive residences will be located on Raha Island in the Mina Al Arab district — an area known for its quiet coastline, natural beauty, and increasingly high-profile investment. The project will feature a limited number of high-end villas and apartments, all designed by Giorgio Armani and his...

The UAE's annual "Planting Week" has officially begun, bringing communities together for a series of tree planting and environmental initiatives aimed at fostering a greener future. Kicking off with exciting events in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, the week-long campaign highlights the importance of local tree planting, sustainable farming practices, and the preservation of the country's valuable green spaces. In Ras Al Khaimah, the spotlight was on the opening of a new community park in Wadi Isfani. This exciting new green space, developed through collaboration between the Public Services Department and the Emirates Red Crescent, serves as a testament to...

One of the UAE’s most beloved Italian spots, Antonia, is opening its doors in the northern emirate, bringing its famous Roman-style pizza to Ras Al Khaimah. You may already know Antonia from its popular locations in other UAE cities, and now, it’s coming to RAK with the same flavour-packed pizzas and authentic Italian vibes. Antonia’s story goes way beyond just great food. It’s built on family tradition and a passion for top-notch ingredients. The star of the restaurant is Roman-style pizza, served by the slice. This dough, made from a sourdough starter created by Simone’s grandmother back in 1972, is...

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is gearing up for some big changes over the next five years. Marjan, the master developer behind many of these plans, is focused on expanding the emirate's mountain landscapes and promoting active tourism. One of their major initiatives is carving out 100 kilometers of hiking and biking trails, giving outdoor enthusiasts the chance to explore the local scenery in a whole new way. Marjan is also planning to host cultural and entertainment festivals that will attract over 20,000 visitors annually, offering something for everyone, from music and art to local cultural experiences. These festivals will add...

If you enjoy long lunches or leisurely breakfasts with a stylish twist, there’s good news — tashas, the South African café known for its refined comfort food and relaxed vibe, is opening new branches in Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah. This expansion is part of a larger growth strategy announced by Natasha Sideris, founder and CEO of Tashas Group. Over the next 18 months, 16 new venues are expected to open across the Middle East and South Africa, with plans for 75 additional sites in the pipeline.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared...

Ras Al Khaimah continues to attract global hospitality brands, with a new addition now confirmed for Al Marjan Island. The NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel and Apartments is scheduled to open in 2028 and will be designed by Dubai-based B8 Architecture. The project marks another step forward in the emirate’s growth as a premium travel and investment destination. Operated by Minor Hotels — a group that already manages 17 hotels across the UAE — this will be the brand’s latest entry into the Middle East market. The hotel will be located in a prime area, just...