Fun things to do for kids in Ras Al Khaimah
While Dubai and Abu Dhabi are known for their many family-friendly attractions, things are no different in the picturesque emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. There are lots of things to do in RAK with kids so the whole family can enjoy visiting this mountainous city. Situated at the northernmost region of the UAE, this growing emirate lies amidst the majestic Jebel Jais and the Arabian Gulf. With a rich cultural heritage, lush greenery and scores of kid-friendly activities, RAK is the ideal spot for families.
From museum runs to water sports and desert safaris, here are some of the top activities for kids in RAK.
Visit Historical Places
A trip to a museum or heritage site in RAK city is a good idea for parents who prefer edutainment activities for their children. It’s a great way to introduce them to Ras Al Khaimah’s rich culture and heritage and learn a few amazing facts yourself! Here are a few historical places you can visit with the kids in RAK.
National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah
The first stop in your history tour must be the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah. Situated at one of the oldest forts in the emirate, this museum gives visitors a glimpse of Ras Al Khaimah’s past in the form of exhibits and rare artefacts. Some of the items on display include traditional weapons, ancient pots, fishing instruments and even original treaties signed by former ruling families.
- Location: Sheikh Saqr Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi Road
- Contact: +971-71-2333-411
Dhayah Fort
With a backdrop of the majestic mountains, the Dhayah Fort is the highest hilltop fortress in the UAE and was the last bastion of local resistance to British forces in 1819.
Built during the 18th century, the mud-brick castle offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, palm gardens and the sea. The historic site was also the residence of former rulers as well as a prison before it became a heritage site and a significant landmark in the country’s history.
- Location: Northern Ras Al Khaimah
- Contact: +971-7-233-8998
- Opening hours: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm (Sunday to Thursday) |Closed Friday and Saturday
Outdoor Activities for Kids in RAK
Apart from historical attractions, RAK city also offers a range of leisure outdoor activities from water sports to biking and mountain climbing. Here are some fun things to do in RAK with kids.
Ride the Jais Sledder
The Jais Sledder is among the popular activities for kids in RAK. And it’s easy to see why. This addition to the emirate’s list of attractions runs on a low-slung track that rides along the Hajar Mountain Range — ensuring an exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages.
You can find the Jais Sledder at Jebel Jais mountain.
Go Ziplining
Jebel Jais is among the best places to visit with kids in RAK. Apart from the mentioned sledder, it is also the site of the longest zipline in the world, as declared by the Guinness Book of World Records.
The zipline is part of the Jais Sky Tour and the many activities offered by Jais Adventure Park in RAK. These include a Sky Maze where you can take on obstacle courses 10 metres above the ground. It offers two levels of difficulty for kids and adults.
- Location: Jebel Jais Rak
- Contact: +971-4-815-7333
RAK Track Go Karting
What kid doesn’t love go-karting? From professional racing karts to rental karts for amateurs, this place has it all. Try their “Arrive and Drive” deal — ideal for the whole family. This deal offers adult and junior karts for parents and their kids (aged 7 and older) and a chance for them to race against each other on a 1.1 km racetrack. Safety comes first here, which is why each racer is equipped with safety suits and helmets.
- Location: E11 Sheikh Mohammad Bin Saleem Road
- Contact: +971-7-2222-128
- Opening hours: 03:00 pm to 11:00 pm | 04:30 pm to 01:30 am (Thursday and Friday)
Fly Fish Water Sports
Next on your list of things to do in Ras Al Khaimah for kids is the Fly Fish Water Sports centre. A great way to cool off, especially during the summer months, this centre offers a plethora of water-based activities including banana boating, surfing and more.
Water sporting activities start at AED 40 for individuals. If you are concerned that these may be too difficult for the little ones, there are fishing boats and paddle boats to keep the young children engaged.
- Location: Marjan Island Resort and Spa
- Contact: +971-52-380-2308
- Opening hours: 09:00 am till sunset
Saqr Park
Looking for a place to have a picnic in Ras Al Khaimah? The parks in Ras Al Khaimah offer a slew of activities and facilities to keep kids entertained. Considered the largest public park in the emirate, Saqr Park Ras Al Khaimah features wide green spaces, playgrounds and other facilities for families.
Notable attractions for children include three arcades which offer various games and other types of kid-friendly entertainment. There is also an artificial lake with waterfalls and boating activities on offer. All in all, the park has some great activities for kids in Ras Al Khaimah.
- Location: Airport Road, near E18 intersection
- Contact: +971-7-233-8998
- Opening Hours: 07:30 am to 11:00 pm
Marjan Island
One of the best places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah with your family is Marjan Island. A group of coral-shaped islands in an artificial archipelago in RAK, Al Marjan Island is home to three beach resorts including the famed Hilton resort.
While the island is mostly known for its nightlife, it also offers activities for families to enjoy. For example, there are water sports offered at all the resorts. Additionally, it also has three public parks, bike rental facilities and a play area. A day pass will also give you access to the private beach.
Mountain Safari
Next up in things to do for kids in RAK is a mountain safari in the Hajjar Mountains — an excellent way to introduce the great outdoors to your kids. Take an off-road adventure on a scenic drive along the foothills of the mountain while stopping in archaeological sites along the way. Take part in a “Wadi Descent” where you travel through the area’s natural waterways.
Desert Safari
For a traditional desert safari, head to the Bassata Desert Village. Located in Al Wadi, the village gives you a glimpse into traditional Arab life in the desert. Other family-friendly activities to look forward to include camel riding and sand skiing. After a day of fun, sit down for a sumptuous BBQ dinner under the stars. All in all, its a great source of fun activities for kids in Ras Al Khaimah.
- Contact: +971-4-336-6643
- Opening hours: Open 24-hours
RAK Zoo
What do kids love most? A trip to the zoo —which is why RAK Zoo must be a stop on your RAK activities for kids tour. Opened in 2014 following efforts to boost tourism in the emirate, this zoo is the third-largest in the UAE. Exotic animal species featured here include white lions, a rare golden tiger, wolves, deer, birds, panthers and more.
In addition to rare and endangered species, there are also several activities for families. For example, there is an equestrian club that gives horseback riding lessons to kids. Additional attractions include cycle tracks, camel rides, as well as an array of restaurants.
- Location: Al Fahlain, Ras Al Khaimah
- Opening hours: 09:00 am to 09:00 pm
Kayaking in the Mangroves
Mangrove kayaking in Abu Dhabi is a popular tourist attraction. But did you know that you can get the same experience in RAK city too? Dotted with natural salt flats and mangroves, the emirate’s coastal inland area is a great place for nature-loving families. Home to rich ecosystems, these lush mangroves are full of rare species of exotic animals and birds like flamingos. The best way to experience it all? Rent a kayak. Contact any local tour operator offering kayaking services in the area. Prices depend on the number of people in your party and each session is supervised by a qualified instructor.
FAQs
What are the best activities in RAK?
There are loads of things to do in RAK, if you know where to go. This includes everything from a visit to the emirate’s pristine beaches to hiking and more. One of the most popular attractions is Al Hamra Beach in Ras Al Khaimah.
Are there any activities for kids in Dubai?
Looking for more kid-friendly adventures further south? Before you pick a place, check out our guide for exciting activities at La Mer Beach. For activities that are friendlier on your budget, here is a list of free kids activities in Dubai.
That’s all for the best places that offer fun things to do in RAK with kids. Stay tuned to MyBayut for more updates on the latest happenings in the UAE.
(Cover image credit: Jais Sledder official website)
