What to do in RAK

The UAE has confirmed the first official public holiday of the year, and it’s one that everyone can enjoy, whether you're in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, RAK, Sharjah, or any other emirate! New Year’s Day (January 1) will be a day off for both public and private sector employees across the country. New Year’s Day in the UAE: Public and Private Sector Holiday Dates Public sector employees across all emirates will be allowed to work remotely on Friday, January 2. The first day back in the office will be on Monday, January 5. Meanwhile, private sector employees won’t miss out either....

Looking for a unique cultural experience this winter? The 13th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival returns from 31 January to 28 February 2025, hosted at Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. This year’s theme, “Memory,” promises a rich tapestry of artistic expression, showcasing over 200 artists from around the globe. What began in 2013 with just 30 emerging artists from Ras Al Khaimah has blossomed into an internationally recognized annual event. Today, the festival serves as a dynamic platform for creativity, connecting artists, authors, and visitors through shared stories and diverse cultural experiences.     View this...

Great news for gaming fans in the UAE! Play971 is now live, and it’s a game-changer. This new platform is the first of its kind to be fully licensed by the UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), making it the official place for online gaming and sports betting in the country. Operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, Play971 offers a wide variety of options, from classic casino games like slots, blackjack, and roulette to sports betting on popular events such as football, cricket, and tennis. If you’re into eSports or fantasy games, this platform’s got you covered too. It’s...

Residents and visitors of Ras Al Khaimah now have an innovative tool to streamline their public transportation experience. The Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) has introduced the Sayr app, an all-in-one platform that enables users to seamlessly plan, book, and pay for their journeys across multiple transit modes, from buses and taxis to ride-sharing and marine transport. This makes moving around the emirate easier, faster, and more convenient than ever before. Through Sayr, users simply enter their starting point and destination, and the app provides optimized transit options with real-time schedules and route tracking. Integrated with secure online payment,...

As Eid Al Adha approaches, residents across the UAE are preparing for a long weekend filled with spiritual reflection and festive gatherings. Falling on Friday, June 6, with Arafah Day on Thursday, June 5, the 2025 holiday will bring a four-day break from Thursday to Sunday (June 5–8) for both the public and private sectors. While the holiday brings well-earned time off and joyful celebrations, its core begins with a spiritual start: Eid prayer. This year, Eid Al Adha coincides with Jumuah (Friday) prayers, marking a particularly significant moment for the Muslim community. The UAE Fatwa Council has confirmed that...

Start your year with an exciting challenge at the Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Half Marathon, taking place on February 1, 2025, at Al Marjan Island. This celebrated race is perfect for runners of all levels, whether you're aiming to smash a personal record, embrace a healthier lifestyle, or simply enjoy the thrill of participating in a community-driven event. From seasoned runners to enthusiastic beginners, the RAK Half Marathon offers diverse race options to cater to every pace: Half Marathon (21.1 km): Open to participants aged 18 and above, this flagship race starts at 7 AM. 10 km Road Race: Designed...

A fresh coastal project is coming to Ras Al Khaimah, and it’s bringing more than just sea views. Ardee Developments has announced Ardee Al Marjan Island, a large-scale community that will combine luxury living with retail, hospitality, and leisure — right on the shores of the emirate. The development will stretch across more than 2.5 million square feet on the man-made Marjan Island, which is fast turning into a real estate magnet. The new neighborhood will feature a mix of high-end homes, including branded apartments, serviced residences, townhouses, and private villas. Also in the plans: a luxury hotel, a range...

The Jais Sledder, Ras Al Khaimah’s much-loved mountain ride, has been temporarily closed, leaving visitors eager for updates. Known for offering adrenaline-packed descents at speeds of up to 40kmph, the attraction has been out of operation for over a week, according to a representative from Jais Adventure Park. While the exact reason for the closure remains unspecified, call center staff have suggested that routine maintenance may be underway. A notice on the park’s official website confirms the temporary closure, with a message of thanks for visitors' patience. Nestled in the scenic adventure hub of Jebel Jais, the highest peak in...

Boutique brand Earth Hotels is preparing to make a splash in the Middle East hospitality scene. With a strong focus on design, sustainability, and lifestyle experiences, the brand is set to open four new properties across the UAE and Saudi Arabia by 2027. Each location brings a unique concept — from mangrove retreats to party-ready beach resorts. Here’s what’s coming up. Earth Mangroves in Umm Al Quwain, UAE Opening in 2025, this eco-conscious resort is nestled within Umm Al Quwain’s lush mangroves. The property will feature: 41 free-standing bungalows, including waterfront units Nature-based activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, yoga, and...

Ras Al Khaimah’s public transport system just got a new boost. The Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) has launched the Orange Route, a new city bus line that aims to improve connectivity within the emirate as part of the broader Transport Master Plan 2030. Running a 13-kilometre route from Al Nakheel to the Main Bus Station in South Al Dhait, the Orange Route links up with all four of the city’s main transit lines, helping to create a more integrated and accessible transport network across Ras Al Khaimah. Orange Route in RAK: Stops and Timings The new route passes...