Ras Al Khaimah, based on the shores of the Arabian Gulf and surrounded by the Hajar Mountains, is one of the UAE’s best-kept secrets. With stunning beaches and desert, high-end resorts are being set up, and it is now starting to become an increasingly popular destination for UAE residents and tourists.
Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect alternative to Dubai as it feels more exclusive due to the incredible natural features, such as the mountains, which are unique to this part of the country.
From private villas to world-class spas and fine dining under the stars, here are five of the absolute best resorts in Ras Al Khaimah for the ultimate luxury experience.
The Best Resorts In Ras Al Khaimah
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
Situated in a geographical region dominated by the Al Wadi Nature Reserve, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert is a top choice when it comes to resorts in this part of the country.
Set on 1235 acres, this resort has so much to offer beyond the luxurious villas and high-end tent experience. Some of the accommodation options have private pools.
This resort is quite popular with couples and honeymooners. There are tons of opportunities to experience the ultimate pampering with a Rain Forest spa and tens of treatments inspired by the environment.
When it comes to activities, there is so much happening right within the reserve. From falconry to horse riding and a desert experience to archery and fishing. Not to mention it is an incredible spot for stargazing.
There are five dining options, however perhaps the most interesting is the Farmhouse Restaurant with sumptuous dishes made from herbs and vegetables that are sourced within the resort.
2. Anantara Mina Al Arab
Anantara Mina Al Arab is a relatively new addition to the best resorts in Ras Al Khaimah. For those longing for a taste of Maldivian-style luxury without leaving the UAE, Anantara Mina Al Arab is a welcoming resort.
As the first and the only resort in Ras Al Khaimah with overwater bungalows, it adds exclusive touch and new heights to luxury in the Emirate.
Positioned above a well-protected lagoon, the overwater villas have unobstructed views of the sea and direct entrance to the lovely lagoon located beneath them. This is quite a unique experience in the UAE.
The resort accommodates a therapeutic atmosphere that aims at healing and helping guests unwind as well. Inspired by Southeast Asian techniques, treatments offered in Anantara Spa makes it the perfect relaxing stay.
This resort features some incredible restaurants with Mekong being a firm favourite. The pan-Asian food is superb, especially the dim-sum and fresh seafood is a must-try!
3. The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach
There is yet another Ritz-Carlton jewel on the opposite end of Ras Al Khaimah. Based on a beautiful stretch of Al Hamra Beach, this resort has a mix of tented and luxury villas.
Here you can enjoy tens of recreational activities on the water including paddleboarding, fishing and kayaking. Not to mention the 18-hole golf course with views of the ocean make it super unique.
The stunning westerly facing orientation make this spot the ideal place for a beach sunset dinner. It is super romantic, ideal for honeymooners and couples.
Adding to that experience is the resort’s Arabian Gulf inspired spa with a variety of wellness focused treatments using some local knowledge.
You don’t have to be a honeymooner or a couple to enjoy this resort, it is also family friendly with the Ritz Kids programme featuring educational activities and exploration of nature as well as cultural traditions.
4. The Cove Rotana Resort
Perched along the shores of the Arabian Gulf, The Cove Rotana Resort brings a slice of the Mediterranean right into Ras Al Khaimah.
The resort is like an Italian village in its design, with clusters of villas and buildings flowing down to the beach.
Whether it be relaxation or adventure, the peaceful setting and Arabian hospitality make it a great choice when looking for an amazing resort in Ras Al Khaimah.
Most of the accommodation has incredible views of the Arabian Gulf. Not to mention the infinity pool which makes land and sea come together in one single view.
Basilico is a fine dining restaurant onsite with Mediterranean inspirations twisted to contemporary cuisine. The brown brick arched ceiling and wooden furnishing could be somewhere in Spain!
Like most of the Rotana Hotels, Cove Rotana is particularly popular with families. Featuring the Flippers Club with indoor and outdoor facilities as well as babysitting services.
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah is a stunning beachfront resort with luxurious plush rooms overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Many of the accommodation options have a private balcony to enjoy the view.
Enjoy the iconic afternoon tea at Peacock Alley or dine at one of the several outstanding dining options featuring everything from Asian to Middle Eastern Cuisine.
When it comes to recreation, beyond enjoying the glorious beach there is also tennis, tons of watersports as well as the resort's very own 18-hole golf course.
Following a day of exploring, enjoy a well deserved treatment at the resort's undersea themed spa, followed by dinner at the incredibly sophisticated Lexington Grill. This steakhouse serves prime cuts of meat as well as seafood. It also caters to plant based diets.
The pool is stunning and perfect for a place to hang and relax during the day. Families also love Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah due to the extensive kids club. In fact it’s probably one of the best Ras Al Khaimah resorts for families!
Be it the dramatic backdrop of the desert or the serene beauty of the Arabian Gulf, Ras Al Khaimah offers a luxury travel experience in unique surroundings.
These five resorts all offer a unique take on opulence and redefine what it is to escape and unwind. From the grandeur of the Waldorf Astoria to the exclusive overwater bungalows at Anantara Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah is positioning itself as the UAE’s the Emirate where luxury meets nature.