Plan a CruiseRas Al-Khaimah Cruise Port Guide
Ras Al-Khaimah offers a brand new, state-of-the-art cruise terminal situated directly alongside the historical and cultural center of Ras Al-Khaimah Old Town. The terminal provides various amenities including concierge service, a café, Wi-Fi, and wheelchair accessibility. This northernmost Emirate boasts a rich history spanning over seven millennia, combined with impressive natural landscapes, leisure activities, and adventure opportunities, making it a sought-after destination.
While the UAE is a modern and liberal country, it is fundamentally a Muslim nation, and local traditions and customs should be respected. An important practical note for independent exploration is that walking around Ras Al-Khaimah city is generally not recommended due to heavy traffic, a lack of dedicated sidewalks, and insufficient zebra crossings.
Getting Around from the Port
Given the traffic conditions and limited pedestrian infrastructure, walking around Ras Al-Khaimah city is not advised, except for leisurely strolls along Corniche Road and the beaches.
Your primary options for getting around the city are taxis or rental cars. Taxis are metered, reasonably priced, and readily available. They are known for being honest. You can easily flag a taxi on the street, typically within a few minutes, or book one by calling 800 1 700. For exploring further afield or with more flexibility, renting a car is also an option. There are no specific public transit options recommended for cruise passengers.
Attractions and Activities
- Jebel Jais Zipline: Experience the Guinness World Record's longest zipline, stretching an incredible 2.83 kilometers. Located in the Jebel Jais Mountains, this thrilling adventure offers breathtaking heights and speeds. You will be accompanied by qualified safety guides and provided with high-quality safety equipment.
- Ras Al-Khaimah Old Town: Situated directly next to the cruise terminal, the Old Town offers a glimpse into the emirate's history. While walking around the broader city is not recommended, this immediate area should be more accessible from the port.
- Khasab Dhow Cruises: For a unique day trip, consider a dhow cruise in Khasab, located about 1.5 hours away. These traditional boat trips offer a chance to explore the stunning fjords and marine life of Musandam.
When planning your activities, it's advisable to compare excursions offered by your cruise line with options available from independent providers like GetYourGuide and Viator.
Dining & Shopping
Within the cruise terminal, you'll find a café offering refreshments. The reference guide does not provide specific details on local restaurants, culinary specialties, nearby markets, or souvenir shops. However, as a modern city, Ras Al-Khaimah offers various dining and shopping opportunities that can be accessed via taxi.
Safety
Ras Al-Khaimah is a safe destination. However, as a Muslim country, it is important to be mindful of and respect local traditions and customs. A key practical safety warning is that walking around the city streets is not recommended due to significant traffic, a lack of sidewalks, and limited zebra crossings. For pedestrian enjoyment, stick to designated areas like Corniche Road and the beaches.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), often abbreviated as dhs. The Dirham is pegged to the US Dollar, ensuring a stable exchange rate with USD. While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken and serves as the lingua franca, particularly given the large expatriate population from various countries.