National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah Museum gives an excellent insight into the local history and offers a little haven of tranquillity in the inner courtyard.
After its early role as a fort and royal residence, the 200-year-old stronghold later became a police station and prison before finally taking its position as a national museum. It has recently undergone further restoration.
As you enter, the friendly staff will serve you Arabic coffee or tea and invite you to sit in the majlis to drink it before starting your tour.
Ras Al Khaimah Fort has two levels around a courtyard, with a third level in the turrets to look out for approaching enemies on both land and sea. It’s worth climbing up for the view. (If you have small children, note that the wall is very low.)
The rooms on the ground floor contain various galleries, some with exhibits dating back thousands of years and others with more recent items. Labels and plaques on the displays give clear information which is easy to read and understand.
I’ve often heard people say that the UAE has no history and are surprised to learn about different communities going back to the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages. Archaeological digs take place across the UAE, and discoveries, such as tools, jewellery, and funerary items, are on display in various public and private museums.
Visit the madbasa, where sacks of dates were piled up to squeeze the syrup out. The local name for date syrup is dhibs and the madbasa means the place of making dhibs.
The courtyard of Ras Al Khaimah Fort is a lovely place to sit, listen to the birds, and relax after your tour. I’ll be back to enjoy this spot soon!
For the perfect day out, combine your visit to the Ras Al Khaimah Museum with a boat trip at Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm.
What else to visit near the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah
- Qawasim Corniche
- Manar Mall Promenade
- Mohammed bin Salam Mosque (restored mosque around 200 years old)
- RAK corniche
- Flamingo Beach
What else to visit in RAK
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