This post was updated on 18 February 2024
Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm is the only one of its kind in the Middle East and on this fascinating tour, you’ll learn all about the history of pearl farming in UAE and the whole process. It’s one of the most enjoyable activities I’ve done here so read on to find out why!
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Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm
Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm was set up 19 years ago by Abdulla Al Suwaidi, the grandson of one of the last pearl divers, Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Suwaidi to continue the family and local tradition.
The farm itself sits in the bay at Al Rams. During your visit, you’ll go to a platform in the bay and you’ll be able to see the underwater farm from there and the boat. From the corniche, you’ll see rows of buoys. That’s the farm!
The best quality pearls are sold as they are or set in beautiful jewellery pieces and sold at their shop in Dubai. You can also buy some on the tour.
Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm Tour
Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm tour leaves from the harbour in a traditional boat and takes you on a fascinating trip around the bay and then out to the mangroves.
Along with the scenery of the rugged Hajar mountains and mangroves reflecting in the calm, clear water, you’ll also see herons, egrets, flamingos, cormorants and other birds, flying fish and, surprisingly, even camels.
Watch out for the flying fish in the video below!
The next stop is Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm itself, which sits in the main bay of Rams overlooking the rugged but stunning Hajar Mountains.
The guide is very knowledgeable and will give a wonderfully informative history of pearling and then a detailed explanation and demonstration of the entire process of pearl farming. After this, he will select an oyster to open in front of you and will check for pearls, both cultured and natural.
In the photos below, you can see some of the tools used for pearl farming in UAE.
The Suwaidi Pearl Farm tour concludes with a detailed explanation of the classification of pearls according to lustre, size, shape, etc. At this point, you will have a chance to see all the pearls and tools up close. By the end of the tour, you may be surprised at how much you’ve learned.
The priceless prayer beads in the photo above are only of three sets which took several years to complete. The other two were gifted to Sheikh Khalifa and Sultan Qaboos.
If you want to buy anything, products are also on display and make for a special gift. (These are also available in their store in Dubai.)
Before leaving Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm on the boat back to the harbour, each guest receives and gift. I won’t spoil the surprise though! Are you ready to book?
Is the Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm tour worth it?
I really loved this trip. Not only was it relaxing but it was very informative seeing how pearl farming worked and having the history of pearl farming explained with genuine items and still being used. Add in that the scenery from the boat trip was simply stunning! I’ve recommended this to many friends and followers and always had great feedback. In fact, it’s time I booked it again too!
Bonus section! – The oldest known pearl in the world
The oldest known pearl in the world was discovered on an island in Abu Dhabi and is around 8000 years old. If you visit the Louvre Museum in the capital, you can see it on display and admire its beauty.
Did you know that archaeological evidence of the use of pearls in this region goes as far back as 6000 BC? Perhaps unsurprisingly, pearls were not only found near the coast. Archaeologists discovered a necklace of pearls in a Palaeolithic period grave at Al Buhais in Al Madam Desert. Learn more about archaeology in Sharjah Central Region at Mleiha.
Experts estimate it to be around 7000 years old. At that time, pearls were possibly traded for pottery. If you’d like to learn more about the history of Ras Al Khaimah, you can combine this trip with a visit to The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah.
What else to see and do in Rams Ras Al Khaimah
You can combine Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm with Al Dhaya Fort, Museum of Beautiful Time, the mangroves, the harbour, Soraya Beach and historic buildings.
Where else can you visit near Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm?
- Soraya Beach
- Wadi Ghalila
- Al Manar Mall Promenade
- Jebel Jais
- Wadi Shaam
- Shimal
- Khatt
- National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah
FAQ
- Where is Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm UAE located? It is located at Rams, Ras Al Khaimah
- How can I book for the Suwaidi Pearls Farm Tour? You can book the Suwaidi Pearl Farm Tour here.
- How many pearl farms are in the UAE? There is only one.
- What is the Suwaidi Pearls Farm ticket price? The price can change but you can check this deal here.
- Can I stay at Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm? No, but there are some options of places to stay nearby near the end of this post.
- Can I camp near Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm? You can camp near the mountains and wadis but it is no longer allowed to camp on Ras Al Khaimah beaches and you could be fined for doing so.
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