Gliding across the calm, turquoise waters through the mangroves of Al Rams, I gaze at the towering Hajar mountains in front of me. The wooden boat I’m travelling in is transporting me to a remote pontoon, home to the world’s first Arabian pearl farm. In waters filled with flamingoes and turtles, a small team of Emiratis is reviving the ancient trade, cultivating exquisite pearls with modern-day pearling techniques.
Mountain ranges and ancient pearling traditions might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of the United Arab Emirates, with Dubai’s famous skyscrapers and luxurious resorts tending to take centre stage. But I’m in Ras Al Khaimah (also known as RAK), one of the UAE’s ‘other’ emirates.
Just over an hour’s drive from the heart of Dubai, the northernmost emirate was historically considered a significant trade centre. In more recent years, it’s become an attractive escape for those seeking a truly authentic UAE experience. Like the other emirates, it’s not short of luxury hotels, but Ras Al Khaimah also offers tranquil beaches, a wealth of cultural heritage sites, and a nature-centric experience that is a perfect getaway from bustling Dubai. The city has long been a hidden gem in the Middle East – and after attracting 1.22 million visitors in 2023, it won’t remain a secret for long. The region’s new focus on tourism means now is the perfect time to visit.
What to do
Adventurous souls and laid-back beach bums can find plenty of things to do that suit all budgets in Ras Al Khaimah. The emirate has many options, whether you want breathtaking views or thrilling excursions.
Unique cultural excursions
(Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority)
No visit to Ras Al Khaimah would be complete without learning about the region’s history of pearling. Descending from a long line of pearl divers, Abdulla Al Suwaidi keeps the region’s pearl traditions alive with Suwadi Pearl Farm. The farm offers tours, with opportunities to learn about age-old techniques and hear tales of the region’s pearl divers. Guests can travel on a traditional pearling boat – and you can even take home an Arabian pearl if you’re lucky enough to find one inside an oyster.
Discover ancient heritage sites
Jazeera Al Hamra is a village with 500 impressive buildings where archaeologists have continued to discover…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at The Independent Travel…