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Guide
Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates π¦πͺ
#849
,
Nomad Score:
66%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, known for its beautiful beaches and mountains. |
π₯ Population | Around 400,000. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is approximately 100 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 AED β 0.27 USD; major banks include Emirates NBD and ADCB. |
π° Tap Water | Tap water is treated and potable. |
π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type G sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Mobile providers include Etisalat and Du, offering a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans. |
π³ Banking for Expats | International banks like HSBC and Standard Chartered operate alongside local banks. |
π Accommodation | Popular options include Airbnb, serviced apartments, and long-term rentals. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb is widely used; hotels such as Hilton Ras Al Khaimah are also available. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostels like the Dormitory and budget hotels such as Citymax Hotel. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Al Hamra Village is popular for its beach access and proximity to attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The Al Nakheel area is recommended for its cafes and coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | RAK Coworking Space is popular for remote workers. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Moka is known for its good Wi-Fi and quiet ambiance. |
πΌ Networking Events | Meetup groups and local business events can often be found on platforms like Facebook and Meetup. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | The Ras Al Khaimah Expat Community Facebook group organizes regular social gatherings. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Careem and Uber operate widely in Ras Al Khaimah. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available at various beach locations, including beaches near Al Marjan Island. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Al Marjan Island has stunning beaches and resorts. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Air Arabia operates regional flights from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Emirates and Etihad frequently service Ras Al Khaimah. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road connects Ras Al Khaimah with other emirates. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train service; however, buses operate throughout the city. |
π Public Transport Passes | RTA Nol cards can be used for public buses in the region. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses run to Dubai and Abu Dhabi from several terminals around the city. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Saqr Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga & Wellness by RAK offers yoga classes and wellness therapies. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness First and Gold's Gym are popular fitness centers in Ras Al Khaimah. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundromats such as Wave Laundry provide laundry services at affordable prices. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Talabat and Zomato are popular food delivery apps. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Sample Shawarma and traditional dishes at local restaurants like Al Fanar. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Raw Vegan Restaurant serves a variety of plant-based dishes. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | ChocoLava is famous for desserts and chocolates. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | The RAK Mall has several affordable dining options. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon.ae and Noon are common online shopping platforms. |
π Grocery Delivery | Carrefour offers online grocery shopping and delivery. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Cove Beach is a popular area for nightlife, featuring bars and restaurants. |
π» Local Brewery | RAK Brewery produces a variety of local beers. |
π· Wine Bars | The Cellar at the Hilton offers an extensive wine selection. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street food is available at local markets throughout the city. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Many restaurants serving Indian, Lebanese, and Italian cuisines are available throughout Ras Al Khaimah. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Ras Al Khaimah Fort is a historical landmark worth visiting. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | RAK Museum showcases the emirate's heritage and culture. |
π° Historical Sites | The Dhayah Fort offers a glimpse into the region's history. |
π Religious Sites | Sheikh Zayed Mosque is an important place of worship. |
π Annual Events | The Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival takes place annually. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Al Hamra Village showcases traditional architecture. |
π Theater Venues | RAK's Cultural Center hosts various performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The RAK Souq offers local crafts and food. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local venues frequently host live music events. |
π¨ Street Art | Some areas feature local art murals and installations. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are available at various cultural centers. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | The Ras Al Khaimah Art Center showcases local artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The Old Town area features several preserved historic buildings. |
π΄ Local Heritage | RAK is known for its rich heritage reflecting Persian and Bedouin influences. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Jais Mountain is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Wadi Shawka Park offers beautiful landscapes and hiking trails. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The Al Marjan Island waterfront path is great for walking and jogging. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Jebel Jais offers exceptional views of the UAE. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | The Al Wadi Nature Reserve is famous for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas in the mountains allow for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and FedEx operate branch services in Ras Al Khaimah. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Tech repair shops are available within malls. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers often have tennis tables for public use. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | The British Council offers English language courses. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | RAK Library provides a quiet space for study and reading. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Community venues frequently host events and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Various gaming lounges are scattered around the malls. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Ras Al Khaimah. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. AED 1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = AED 48,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. AED 1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = AED 40,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. AED 1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = AED 90,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. AED 1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = AED 72,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. AED 1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = AED 144,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. AED 1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = AED 120,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 0% for free-zone businesses. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 0%. |
π¦ Tax System | No personal income tax; only select sectors pay local fees. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 0%. |
π§Ύ VAT | 5%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Not applicable. |
π Property Tax | No annual property tax. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Around 4% of purchase price. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | The UAE offers a 0% personal income tax for residents. |