The little-known pearl of the Arabian Gulf.
Here, the sand has terracotta reflections. The Arabian oryxes, trophies of yesteryear, have found their serenity in this universe of the thousand and one nights. Pearls of the desert, these ungulates almost became part of its totally extinct species. It is thanks to the Phoenix Zoo in the USA that the Mahas (Arabic name) were able to find their habitat. A habitat that continues to rise from its ashes. After fishing and dates, the small emirate of Ras Al Khaïmah found prosperity in pearl oysters, but also in piracy which robbed ships which ventured into the Strait of Hormuz a stone’s throw from the emirate. The English put an end to piracy, the Japanese put an end to pearls by producing their cultured pearls at low cost.
Today, for Emir Saud ben Saqr Al Qassimi, the observation of the exhaustion of oil resources and the fascinating evolution of Dubai, the neighboring emirate, suggests great prospects and in particular with this new inexhaustible deposit: the tourism. It is true that RAK (acronym for Ras Al Khaïmah) benefits from attractive assets that the Emiratis themselves seem to discover: permanent sunshine, kilometers of beaches bathed by 28° water, 5 to 6 hours flight from the main European capitals, 2 hours time difference, political stability. All the ingredients are present without counting a new component that has now become essential: security. In this new Eden, stay among the most beautiful establishments in the emirate to discover this littleknown pearl of the Arabian Gulf.
Intercontinental Mina Al Arab: the oriental welcome
Opened in 2022, the Intercontinental Mina Al Arab has 351 rooms: from classic Seaview rooms to Family Villas, all offer a spectacular view of the sea. A particular preference for the One Bedroom Private Pool Villas. With a surface area of more than 150 m2, they benefit from a private swimming pool and are literally located on the beach. On the catering side, the resort offers no less than six culinary spaces, all led by the talented Belgian chef Nicolas De Visch. At Levant & Nar, immersion in oriental cuisine, however slightly revisited for palates too sensitive to spices, we won’t complain. The ultimate winter destination, after spending two or three days in the tumultuous city of Dubai, the Intercontinental offers guaranteed serenity.
RITZ Carlton Al Wadi desert: when man domesticated the desert
As you push open the monumental door of villa 702, your private residence, you are immediately fascinated by the beauty of the spectacle that is revealed to you. With all the bay windows completely retracted, you are in the dune, only the infinity pool separates you from the Oryxs, indifferent to your astonishment. You imagine yourself there for a spiritual retreat as the decorum and serenity of the place invite you to pray to the one who was able to imagine such a setting. It is then very difficult to escape from your private oasis to go to the spas or even the to go to the stables and ride in the desert. The choice to leave your haven is even more difficult when the Chef and his brigade come to you to prepare a BBQ in your own summer kitchen, so as not to miss the sunset darting its supreme rays. A timeless stay for a true initiatory experience in the most beautiful establishment in the emirate.
ANANTARA Mina Al Arab: embarking at the Thousand and One Nights
The latest addition to the galaxy of 5-star Palaces in Ras Al Khaïmah (opened in January 2024), the Anantara Mina Al Arab is already one of its most beautiful jewels. With only 174 exclusive rooms, hidden in a lush garden or suspended over the waves, the Thai hotel group Minor has mastered expertise in indisputable ultra-luxury. It will come as no surprise to find the excellent Mekong restaurant which offers authentic East Asian cuisine from the southern Chinese, Vietnamese and Thai regions. Exclusive stay for a total disconnection or for a gentle get back into shape in the infinity pool, the yoga pavilion and the fitness center overlooking the mangroves, the change of scenery is total.
MÖVENPICK Al Marjan Island: family paradise
Also brand new (inaugurated in 08/22), the Mövenpick from the Accor group was truly designed for families. From the Deluxe Island Sea View to the suites and chalets, each of them can accommodate families of 3 to 5 people. The shallow coastline allows little ones to enjoy the always mild sea. For older children, the floating water park or jet skis allow them to indulge in water sports all day long. Special mention for the ULA restaurant and its private swimming pool, when the serenity of parents is required. The Mövenpick offers several advantageous full-board options, making it one of the best offers in the Emirate.
Practical information
Balloon Flight
1 hour flight over the desert where we surprise the wildlife and are fascinated by the sun peeking out above the Jebel Jais mountain. A driver will pick you up from your hotel.
Private Excursions
Coffee and dates in the shade of a real oasis, discovery of camel races, trekking in the desert, Salua Daghay and Koenraad Ghys, will organize your private and original excursions.
Zipline
For those looking for adrenaline, the largest zipline in the world awaits them for a 3-kilometer flight at more than 150 km/h. Simply fascinating. Gentler, the sled which goes down almost 2 kilometers to do with the family. Essential lunch at 1484 By Puro, the mountain restaurant, to recover from your emotions.
Pearl Farm
Discovery of the last pearl farm in Ras Al Khaïmah. Nautical excursion and immersion at the time when pearls represented the country’s first resource. Possibility of an oriental lunch on board.
Jean-François Gourdon
