Ras Al Khaimah: Dhayah Fort and the old town

Dhayah Fort stands on a rocky hill above a date-palm plain and is the only hilltop fort in the UAE. It was the last stronghold to fall to British forces in the early nineteenth-century campaigns on this coast, and the climb up the steps rewards you with a view over the oasis, the mountains and the sea. Go early or late: it is a hot climb.

The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah occupies a fort that was the home of the ruling family, with collections on the emirate's archaeology, pearling and maritime past. The old town around it has narrow streets, coffee houses and a working fishing harbour. A short drive south, Al Jazirat Al Hamra is a traditional coastal village, now abandoned, that shows how a pearling community lived.

Allow half a day for the fort, museum and a coffee, and a bit longer if you add the abandoned village. Go from November to March. Combine with Jebel Jais for a full RAK day. If you are planning an event in Ras Al Khaimah, see our Ras Al Khaimah events guide: we produce hotel and ballroom events there.

Wear flat, grippy shoes for the steps up Dhayah Fort and a hat for the exposed climb. The museum and old town are comfortable on foot in the cool months but quiet in the middle of the afternoon, so aim for mornings and late afternoons. Modest dress is expected in the old town.

The route works as the first half of a day before Jebel Jais or a beach afternoon. Most visitors underestimate how much time the fort climb and the museum take together, so keep the rest of the day light.