Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪
#849
,
Nomad Score:
61%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, known for its beautiful beaches and mountains. |
| 👥 Population | Around 400,000. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is approximately 100 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 AED ≈ 0.27 USD; major banks include Emirates NBD and ADCB. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is treated and potable. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type G sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Mobile providers include Etisalat and Du, offering a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | International banks like HSBC and Standard Chartered operate alongside local banks. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Popular options include Airbnb, serviced apartments, and long-term rentals. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb is widely used; hotels such as Hilton Ras Al Khaimah are also available. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostels like the Dormitory and budget hotels such as Citymax Hotel. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Al Hamra Village is popular for its beach access and proximity to attractions. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The Al Nakheel area is recommended for its cafes and coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | RAK Coworking Space is popular for remote workers. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Moka is known for its good Wi-Fi and quiet ambiance. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Meetup groups and local business events can often be found on platforms like Facebook and Meetup. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | The Ras Al Khaimah Expat Community Facebook group organizes regular social gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Careem and Uber operate widely in Ras Al Khaimah. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available at various beach locations, including beaches near Al Marjan Island. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Al Marjan Island has stunning beaches and resorts. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Arabia operates regional flights from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Emirates and Etihad frequently service Ras Al Khaimah. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road connects Ras Al Khaimah with other emirates. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train service; however, buses operate throughout the city. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | RTA Nol cards can be used for public buses in the region. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses run to Dubai and Abu Dhabi from several terminals around the city. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Saqr Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga & Wellness by RAK offers yoga classes and wellness therapies. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness First and Gold's Gym are popular fitness centers in Ras Al Khaimah. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Local laundromats such as Wave Laundry provide laundry services at affordable prices. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Talabat and Zomato are popular food delivery apps. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Sample Shawarma and traditional dishes at local restaurants like Al Fanar. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Raw Vegan Restaurant serves a variety of plant-based dishes. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | ChocoLava is famous for desserts and chocolates. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | The RAK Mall has several affordable dining options. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon.ae and Noon are common online shopping platforms. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Carrefour offers online grocery shopping and delivery. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The Cove Beach is a popular area for nightlife, featuring bars and restaurants. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | RAK Brewery produces a variety of local beers. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | The Cellar at the Hilton offers an extensive wine selection. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street food is available at local markets throughout the city. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Many restaurants serving Indian, Lebanese, and Italian cuisines are available throughout Ras Al Khaimah. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Ras Al Khaimah Fort is a historical landmark worth visiting. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | RAK Museum showcases the emirate's heritage and culture. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The Dhayah Fort offers a glimpse into the region's history. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Sheikh Zayed Mosque is an important place of worship. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival takes place annually. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Al Hamra Village showcases traditional architecture. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | RAK's Cultural Center hosts various performances. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The RAK Souq offers local crafts and food. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local venues frequently host live music events. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Some areas feature local art murals and installations. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are available at various cultural centers. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | The Ras Al Khaimah Art Center showcases local artists. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The Old Town area features several preserved historic buildings. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | RAK is known for its rich heritage reflecting Persian and Bedouin influences. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Jais Mountain is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Wadi Shawka Park offers beautiful landscapes and hiking trails. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The Al Marjan Island waterfront path is great for walking and jogging. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Jebel Jais offers exceptional views of the UAE. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The Al Wadi Nature Reserve is famous for birdwatching. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas in the mountains allow for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and FedEx operate branch services in Ras Al Khaimah. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Tech repair shops are available within malls. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers often have tennis tables for public use. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | The British Council offers English language courses. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | RAK Library provides a quiet space for study and reading. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Community venues frequently host events and activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Various gaming lounges are scattered around the malls. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Ras Al Khaimah. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. AED 1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = AED 48,000). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. AED 1,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = AED 40,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. AED 1,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = AED 90,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. AED 1,200 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = AED 72,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. AED 1,800 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = AED 144,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. AED 1,500 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = AED 120,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 0% for free-zone businesses. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 0%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | No personal income tax; only select sectors pay local fees. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 0%. |
| 🧾 VAT | 5%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Not applicable. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | No annual property tax. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Around 4% of purchase price. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | The UAE offers a 0% personal income tax for residents. |