Camping in Ras al Khaimah is as beautiful as a fresh spring morning or the cool breeze in the summers after sunset. Located at a distance of 85 km from Dubai, the northern Emirate of Ras al Khaimah is one of the most scenic places in the UAE.
The RAK airport is a busy international hub, catering to the needs of passengers from around the globe. But if the flight doesn’t land in Ras al Khaimah, there is a high likelihood of it landing either at Dubai International or Zayed International in the capital.
From these airports, book a taxi to Ras al Khaimah or use ride-hailing platforms like Careem and Uber for greater affordability. You can also board a bus as there are plenty of transport options. You can get a detailed Dubai to Ras al Khaimah bus guide here.
Camping in Ras al Khaimah: Brief introduction
Picture this scene. Comfortable breeze, golden sunrises and sunsets, endless dunes, magical stargazing, a tent, a campfire, a barbecue, hot chocolate as temperatures drop and good company – that is camping in Ras al Khaimah.
This experience is about as good as it gets. You can use the limitless deserts, the majestic mountains or the serene beaches of Ras al Khaimah as the backdrop. But then again, it is not as simple as heading to a beautiful spot and setting up a tent.
The best camping experience in Ras al Khaimah demands a bit of preparation. First of all, safety is of paramount importance. For the inexperienced soul, it is much recommended to go in a group and bring along not one but at least a couple of cars for a safer side.
Glamping and Camping in Ras al Khaimah: Things to remember
In terms of preparation for camping in Ras al Khaimah, pick a designated camping area first. It needs to be a safe place. You should use the right type of car, bring along plenty of food, appropriate clothing and a cooking kit. Don’t forget to pack a pop-up tent.
Pick the scenery first. Deserts offer endless sand dunes to explore. If setting up a tent on the top of a dune has long been on your bucket list, it is time to take it off. But there are plenty of rugged mountains too, offering a much cooler camping experience.
You can also check out a temporary home at one of the beaches in Ras al Khaimah, soaking up the sun, breeze and fun. For many people, camping is comparable to a tranquil experience. But for others, it is thrilling as you can add in hiking, dune bashing and more.
There is more.
There are some things to remember, though. Do not camp on or close to private property in Ras al Khaimah. Be considerate of others and respect the culture and traditions of the place. Leave nothing behind except your footprints.
Camp on durable surfaces for safety reasons, try to minimise the impacts of campfires, and plan ahead and prepare to better address all possible disruptions. But then again, keep a cool mind and experience tranquility and thrill all in the same place.
Camping in Ras al Khaimah is all great. But it is expected that some fresh rules could come in the near future about this experience. You can check this place out for the latest updates. Nonetheless, glamping in Ras al Khaimah is also a beautiful setting for all.
Camping in Ras al Khaimah: Camping at Jebel Jais for real!
Jebel Jais doesn’t disappoint. You need just a couple of hours to reach the highest peak in the UAE from Dubai by road. Jebel Jais is immensely popular among thrill seekers. It is also home to the longest zipline experience on the planet – Jais Flight.
But there is so much more to see and do in Jebel Jais, Ras al Khaimah. You can try out Jais Sky Your for ziplining but on a more relaxed level. There is Jais Sledder, too, taking its passengers on a beautiful toboggan ride. You can reach speeds of up to 40 kmph on it.
Next, try out delicacies or a pleasant afternoon tea at 1484 by Puro, the highest restaurant in the UAE. You can also check out Bear Grylls Explorers Camp to seamlessly channel your inner thrill seeker. This is one of the best things to do in Jebel Jais.
Hiking, picnicking, cycling and more – all of these experiences can be comfortably enjoyed in Jebel Jais. But is there some information about camping and glamping? Jebel Jais is home to Camp 1770, the highest campground in the country.
Let’s understand.
You can find plenty of tents being set up in Jebel Jais. But pitching up the tent in public areas is not recommended because of both safety and ethical concerns. Keep an eye out for rules about camping at Jebel Jais as authorities are likely to implement some soon.
Regardless of the upcoming regulations, the best options for camping at Jebel Jais in Ras al Khaimah are definitely Camp 1770 and the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp. Let us get into both of these destinations briefly.
1. Camp 1770
Camp 1770 is the highest campground in the UAE, offering the best camping experiences in Ras al Khaimah and the entire country too. Embark on an unforgettable journey to Camp 1770 for a spellbinding panorama that stretches across Oman and RAK.
This is the only camp in the UAE to check out both a beautiful sunrise over the Indian Ocean and a memorable sunset over the Arabian Sea. During the cooler months of the year, especially December and January, Camp 1770 gets extra special.
There are plenty of packages to choose from. You can click on this link to get a detailed insight into all there is to camping at Jebel Jais at Camp 1770. The organiser, Adventurati Outdoors, also arranges delicious Emirati meals prepared by local tribal families.
Camp 1770 is one of the best places in the region to experience the real charm of camping. Enjoy summit-inspired camping and as the sun sets, assemble around a campfire and dine on local cuisine, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and listen to stories of old.
For Booking: Click Here
2. Bear Grylls Explorers Camp
Immerse yourself in thrilling courses designed by Bear Grylls himself. The prominent Bear Grylls Explorers Camp in Ras al Khaimah has more than a dozen cabins featuring a double bed, single bunk on top, barbeque pits and so much more.
Located on the dramatic cliffs of Jebel Jais, this camp embraces the legendary Grylls’ philosophy of courage and resilience. You might be a beginner in the outdoors or a seasoned explorer – the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp is for all to step outside the ordinary.
Imagine rugged mountain surroundings outside and practical comfort inside. Built from repurposed shipping containers, cabins at this camp are simple, secure and full of all the basics you need for a no-fuss, restful accommodation.
Each cabin at Bear Grylls Explorers Camp seamlessly balances the serenity of the mountains and comfort. There is adequate space to accommodate up to 3 adults. You can go on a big hike or grill dinner under the stars – soak in all the thrill and come back inside to relax.
Check-in: 2 pm
Check-out: 11 am the next day
Contact Number: +971 48157333
There is a trained first-aid responder and security personnel on-site 24/7. You can purchase charcoal, firelighters, soft drinks, snacks and other essentials from the onsite camp shop, located at the reception area. There are multiple payment modes.
Camping in Ras al Khaimah in the deserts
The UAE has a scenic desert landscape, and so does Ras al Khaimah. Desert camping in the northern Emirate is an experience in itself. Imagine setting up a tent in the desert and hearing nothing but the peaceful sounds of the gliding sands under a bright moon.
The moonscape deserts of Ras al Khaimah have been home to Bedouins for centuries as they shifted around the region in search of fertile land for their animals, better climatic conditions and more. They made their tents from goat or camel hair.
The Bedouins had a staple diet of rice, flour, nuts, dried fruit and goat or camel meat – and their delicious food is replicated at the different camps in RAK. This age-old recipe is cooked for at least 24 hours. Other traditional dishes include hummus and fattoush.
Let’s understand camping in RAK deserts in detail.
Desert camping in Ras al Khaimah is more than just ‘extraordinary’. It is dreamy. If you are planning to set up a tent on the dunes, make sure to bring along friends and family and go off-road only if the sky is clear.
Stargazing! This is one of the top things to do in a desert camp in Ras al Khaimah. You can learn a little bit about the constellations and flaunt your skills at the time of camping. But if you are hesitant about pitching up a tent, let campsites do all the prep for you.
Deserts in Ras al Khaimah are full of campsites, offering great places for both beginners and seasoned campers to experience the desert life in comfort. Some of the top places to check out include, Bedouin Oasis Camp and RAK Glamping.
1. Bassata Desert Village
Deep in the terracotta desert of Ras al Khaimah, you can find Bassata Desert Village in all its glory. This is one of the best places in the Emirate to experience desert camping. The term ‘Bassata’ means simplicity in the local language.
You can experience traditional Bedouin and Arabic lifestyle, explore the desert and try out exciting dune bashing or quad biking. Listen to stories of the old as you dine around the open fires as the sun sets and feast on delicious Bedouin-inspired cuisine.
Bassata Desert Village in Ras al Khaimah is perfect for stargazing as the scarcity of light pollution compared to the nearby cities makes thousands of stars in the night sky more prominent. The camp has a number of VIP tents, too.
2. Bedouin Oasis Camp
Experience a day in the life of a Bedouin and learn more about their ancient tradition. It is a beautiful experience and one that is going to stay in the memories for a long time. Bedouin Oasis Camp is perfect to experience desert camping in Ras al Khaimah.
You can also explore open landscapes of rolling sand dunes, ride soft-footed camels, enjoy dune bashing on a comfortable 4×4 or try out quad biking. You can see falcons, just flaunting their remarkable speed and local Bedu ladies hand-painting henna tattoos.
Experience a lot of entertainment, in addition to delicious food from the grill before settling into one of the tents at Bedouin Oasis. Desert camping in Ras al Khaimah has never been this comfortable, you might say.
For Booking: Click Here
3. RAK Glamping
Explore RAK Glamping for a comfortable but equally appealing and exciting desert camping in Ras al Khaimah. This place seamlessly blends traditional Arabic lifestyle and the finest British hospitality. You can find different types of accommodation to choose from.
Rooms at RAK Glamping feature board games, desert-inspired folkloric bedtime stories and Netflix. Each room has air conditioning to ensure complete comfort throughout the year. You can find a fire pit and charcoal BBQ outside.
This place is pet-friendly. Don’t leave your funny friends back home. Bring them along as RAK Glamping has separate pools for friendly doggies, a safe play area, delicious dog ice cream and a pet shop. The founders are also certified pet sitters.
For Booking: Click Here
4. The Dunes Camping and Safari
The Dunes Camping and Safari is one of the reputed camping organisers in Ras al Khaimah. Boasting more than 15 years of market experience, the company is committed to excellent hospitality, combining energy, enthusiasm and experience.
You can enjoy a memorable family picnic safari in the shade of an acacia tree or camp under the stars in a traditional heritage tent or futuristic dome. The Dunes is going to take care of all the arrangements, making sure that your experience is as comfortable as possible.
Deep in the terracotta deserts, experience an extraordinary Bedouin-inspired journey. You can also try out dune bashing as you tear across beautiful moonscapes in a luxury 4×4 Land Cruiser. There is also the option to ride atop a camel or meet animals in a local farm.
The Dunes Camping and Safari uses modern amenities, comfortable furniture and other necessary utilities so that guests can easily spend a memorable time. The company also arranges private and corporate events in the desert.
For Booking: Click Here
Glamping and camping on Ras al Khaimah beaches
Not many things are free in life. But exploring a stunning public beach in Ras al Khaimah definitely doesn’t cost anything. The northern Emirate is home to some of the most spectacular and beautifully maintained beaches in the region.
Ras al Khaimah has scenic golden beaches, full of luxury eco-resorts, sophisticated islands and creeks. These beaches are perfect for families, couples and also solo tourists. Take Flamingo Beach, for instance.
Possibly the most popular public beach in Ras al Khaimah, Flamingo Beach is quite Instagrammable. It is easily accessible and is best appreciated during the sunset hours. You can find the ultimate guide to Flamingo Beach in this article.
There is certainly more.
Head to Al Rams Beach, situated through Saraya Island in Ras al Khaimah. It is a hidden gem and free to access. The beach is ideal for sunbathing. But you can also engage in paddleboarding and jet skiing. Build sandcastles and take leisurely strolls, too.
Heard of Mina Al Arab yet? This is Ras al idyllic island sanctuary. Located at a gap of just 45 minutes from Dubai, but a million miles from the hustle and bustle of city life, Mina Al Arab is famous in the region for offering memorable beachside escapism.
Mina Al Arab features a marina, cafes and boutiques, and high-end resorts and residences. It is not recommended to camp on the public beaches in Ras al Khaimah. The best options are to book already existing tents and cabins, featuring all necessary amenities.
1. Longbeach Campground
Camping at Longbeach Campground is a fun substitute to staying in a luxury hotel. This beach-fronted campground is ideal for families, groups of friends and romantic retreats. Each tent has all the amenities required to ensure a comfortable experience.
You get furniture outside the tent, floating theatre, outdoor spa, fun action and pool facilities. There are multiple glamping tents to choose from, including an authentic deluxe tent, a safari suite tent, a panoramic dome suite tent and a sunset terrace suite tent.
Of course, I forgot to mention the gentle and beautiful glimpses of the sea. Longbeach Campground, one of the first-of-its-kind in Ras al Khaimah, is located along a 300-metre stretch of beach and is absolutely ideal for staycations for people of all preferences.
The campground is close to the city centre, making it an accessible destination. You can also find plenty of Ras al Khaimah shopping malls and souks nearby. Don’t miss a live saxophonist or violinist enhancing the experience as the sun sets.
Contact Number: +971 600566600
For Booking: Click Here
2. Banan Beach
Banan Beach is a step up from camping to glamping in Ras al Khaimah. One of the best things to do here is to sleep right on the beach, but in utmost luxury and comfort. There are multiple accommodation options to choose from.
Head to Banan Beach and book one of the chalets or beach houses, including the Bal’aa Garden Room, Yafa Beach Room or Ghazzah Beach Room. Each unit looks quite basic from the outside. But like some intellectual has said, don’t judge a book by its cover.
Inside each unit on Banan Beach, you can find king-size beds, bathrooms, a refrigerator and air conditioning. There are plenty of things to do here, including pool parties and Bahar Club Nights. You can find a lot of restaurants, a family pool and an adults-only pool, too.
There is one more important thing about Banan Beach in Ras al Khaimah. This entire place, including the beach, is pet-friendly. You don’t need to be hesitant about bringing your furry friends along on this camping trip to Ras al Khaimah.
Contact Number: +971 72353566
For Booking: Click Here
Head to Ras al Khaimah for a unique experience
Ras al Khaimah is an underrated gem. But the Emirate is gradually getting a lot of attention from tourists from across the globe. Ras al Khaimah is immensely popular among Dubai locals. But tourists in Dubai are also increasingly understanding the importance of this place.
You need about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the northern Emirate from Dubai. You can book a taxi or use ride-hailing platforms like Careem and Uber. But the public bus transportation scene is also top-notch.
The first bus departs Dubai Union Bus Station at 7:30 am and the last one is at 11:30 pm. On the return journey, the first bus departs RAK at 5:30 am and the last one is at 9 pm. Ras al Khaimah is also easily accessible from other Emirates in the UAE and beyond.
Like I had mentioned in the beginning itself, glamping and camping in Ras al Khaimah is as beautiful as a fresh spring morning or the cool breeze in the summers after sunset. Head to the northern Emirate this year for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Happy camping or glamping!
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