Ras al-Khaimah رأس الخيمة, UAE

Ras al-Khaimah (Arabic: رأس الخيمة) is one of the seven emirates that form the United Arab Emirates. Located on the northern part of the country, its name means "Top of the Tent". Ras al-Khaimah covers 1,683 sq km (650 sq mi) and has a population of 263,000 people (2012 estimate).

Human habitation in Ras al-Khaimah goes back to the 3rd millennium BC. The city traces its beginnings to an ancient settlement called Julfar. The settlement shifted its location over time as the harbor channels silted up.

Ras al-Khaimah was ruled by the Qawasim clan in the early 18th century. As the Qawasim posed a threat to British imperialism, the British naval force attacked and occupied Ras al-Khaimah in the early 19th century. In 1822 the sheikh was forced to sign a General Maritime Treaty with the British to protect itself from Ottoman ambitions.

Ras al-Khaimah was ruled by Sharjah until 1869 and again from 1900 to 1921, when it gained its independence. In 1972, it joined the newly formed United Arab Emirates.

Highway towards Ras al-Khaimah, UAE

Visiting Ras al-Khaimah

Ras al-Khaimah is about an hour and a half from Dubai and Sharjah.

Sights & Attractions to visit in Ras al-Khaimah

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