RAK, the newest Emirate, emerges as a contender alongside Abu Dhabi and Dubai but distinguishes itself with a unique charm. Destined to be a nature lover's gem, it sets itself apart in the landscape of the Emirates.

&laquo;Let the natural element and nature itself remain the key values ​​of Ras Al Khaimah&raquo; this is the potential of RAK. Overlooking the Persian Gulf, the destination is the last of the seven emirates to become part of the UAE and boasts the beauty of numerous archaeological sites, unexplored landscapes, beaches made up of long strips of golden sand, gulfs of mangroves, a desert of extensive dunes and Jebel Jais , the highest mountain in the United Arab Emirates which borders Oman. The city of RAK, historically recognised by the ancient name of Julfar, is a destination that can be easily reached with Air Arabia flights departing from Milan to Sharjah. The National museum of Ras Al Khaimah was chosen as the museum institution to tell the story of RAK. The visit begins following the Arab tradition - the welcome with a delicious sultan's tea or coffee with local cardamom - and then continues with the ethnographic visit. Another institution not to be missed is the Al Jazirah Al Hamra site, the only remaining historic pearl village in the entire Gulf region, with local buildings featuring wind-catching towers.

Staying focused on traditions, there is a local gem not to be missed, the Suwadi Pearl Farm: the first and only cultured pearl farm in the United Arab Emirates. Founded by Abdulla Al Suwaidi in 2005, the company keeps alive the tradition of pearl fishing, which was once the main source of wealth even before the discovery of oil. Once you arrive on the floating platform surrounded by the surrounding nature rich in mangroves (every now and then flamingos are spotted), it is possible to do a workshop on the farming of oysters for natural pearls in which they talk about the process, the fishing, the technical and physical characteristics of the pearls with demonstrations and showcases. For the most hesitant, it is enough to remember that the pearls collected on site have been used in various high jewellery collections by international brands of the caliber of Steven Webster, <a href="https://www.lofficielibiza.com/fashion/le-grand-tour-high-jewellery-collection-by-van-cleef-arpels-jewelry-details-luxury" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Van Cleef &amp; Arpels</a> and Mouawad, as well as private collections customised for royal families.

For those looking for unforgettable moments, an unmissable stop is a visit to Dhayah Fort during the golden hour. A construction similar to a castle raised on a hill that opens onto the local panorama with a 360 degree view of the oasis between date palm groves and the arid mountains.

Experience and adrenaline come together when you visit Jebel Jais, the highest mountain range in RAK on the border with Oman. Taking advantage of the landscape and the altitude of 1911m there are many activities including the longest zip line in the world (latest Guinness World Record of 2018), an adrenaline rush for over 2.8 kilometers of flight lasting 3 minutes. For the more fearful there is Jais Sledder, a track toboggan suitable for all ages to reach 40 km/h which runs along Mount Hajar. A few steps from the base of Jebel Jais is 1484 by Puro, the highest restaurant in the region with a terrace overlooking the rocky panorama.

For the most intrepid nature lovers there is the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp UAE, conceived as a survival academy managed by the team of the much-loved British television presenter and hiker of the most extreme outdoor adventures, rigorously immersed in nature. Adventure routes, via ferratas, hiking and survival activities lasting 24 hours suitable for adults and children in which the rescue skills learned are put into practice with the support of a team of qualified and expert instructors in the field. While for <a href="https://www.lofficielibiza.com/travel/top-5-winter-activities-to-do-in-switzerland" target="_blank" rel="noopener">outdoor sports</a> enthusiasts there are trekking, hiking and mountain biking trails.

To live a fantasy in perfect <a href="https://www.lofficielibiza.com/portraits/the-interview-with-beatrice-granno-the-actress-of-the-white-lotus-with-a-disarmin" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The White Lotus</a> style, The Ritz Carlton hotel offers the opportunity to experience an ultra-luxury stay with direct access to the Al Wadi desert where experiences are organized in the national natural reserve. Jeep tours, safari sessions and pet therapy with animals including oryx, gazelles, camels, falcons and owls. Sonara Camp is organised in the same desert area, an eco-sustainable model that hosts a restaurant, entertainment activities and shows for all ages.

In addition to boasting the longest zip line in the world, the other Guinness World Record recognized at the destination is the New Year&#39;s Eve fireworks display . Spread over a stretch of seafront between Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village for a total of 4.5km, the celebrations broke the world record for 5 years. A highly anticipated annual event that allows the destination to attract tourists from all over the world even during the Christmas holidays.

Ras Al Khaimah Beckons as the Ultimate Destination for Nature Lovers

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