Imagine driving from Dubai where you can only see skyscrapers and loads of car on the road and then reaching to a destination where rugged mountains meet azure blue waters?
This emirate is called Ras Al Khaimah and this where Dubai Families go on weekends , whole year round.
Read more: Where Dubai Families Go on Weekends: A Ras Al Khaimah Escape GuideWhy do Dubai Families like to Chill in Ras Al Khaimah?
Honestly, it started as “let’s go somewhere not too far” and now it’s our go-to family escape.
As a mom, the first win is the drive. No drama, no endless car time. On a relaxed weekend with light traffic, we’re in Marjan Island in about 1.5 hours. It’s just enough time for snacks, a playlist, and one round of “are we there yet?”
Then comes the stay options, which is where the emirate of RAK really spoils us. Some weekends we go full five-star beach resort, other times it’s cozy desert glamping when we want something different. Mountain views, sea views, quiet hideaways , there’s always a new place to try. You can also go beach camping here or head up to Jebel Jais and set-up a tent.
And the best part? It actually works for everyone. My kids get beach days, quad biking, camel rides, farm visits and, even horseback riding. We did so many fun activities over the years. And for the adventure types, you can hike Jebel Jais, the tallest mountain in Ras Al Khaimah, go scuba diving, explore wadis on a 4×4, and chase those mountain views.
For my family and me, Ras Al Khaimah isn’t just a weekend trip. It’s our little reset button, a calm escape from life in a fast-paced metropolis.
A Stay That Feels Like Home: Our Time at Rixos Al Mairid
Staying at Rixos Al Mairid was hands down one of the most exciting and relaxing family getaways we’ve ever had. Maybe it’s the space, we stayed in a two-bedroom villa with a private pool overlooking the Arabian Sea or just the feeling of having our own little slice of paradise.
Rixos truly caters to every kind of traveler. You can stick with standard rooms or go all out with a villa for more privacy, space, and luxury. Dining options are plentiful too. On our first night, we tried the Turkish a la carte restaurant, Orient — the live entertainment and warm hospitality of the staff immediately made us feel at home.
For breakfast and lunch, we loved Turquoise. My kids are buffet fans, and the themed nights kept them happily entertained. Breakfast is from 7AM until 11 AM and from 6:00PM to 9:30 PM for dinner.
Bonus: free espresso in the villa, or any tea you’re craving. ☕🍵
Being an all-inclusive five-star resort, Rixos makes weekend staycation or vacation of families effortless. You can enjoy a quiet night with a cup of tea in your balcony or have a cocktail at the bar, all while watching the live band and dancers. It’s the perfect mix of luxury, entertainment, and family fun.
There are also kids’ and teen clubs to keep everyone entertained. For adults, beyond watersports and the spa, you can join in-house fitness classes or enjoy live performances by bands, gymnasts, and dancers at the X Lounge Entertainment Hub. Truly, it’s a win-win for the whole family.
Sailing into History: Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm and Its Charming Boat Ride
No family getaway in Ras Al Khaimah feels complete without a little nature escape. So, the next day, we set out early and drove to the scenic coastal town of Rams. From there, we hopped on a picturesque boat ride to Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm, where we dived into the fascinating history of pearl diving in the Emirates from the 1900s and up to the 1940s.
The Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm is both a destination and an experience.
Set under the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, we drove from our hotel to Al Rams. Our guide welcomed us, and before we knew it, we were off on an exciting boat ride to the pearl farm.
The 25-minute boat ride was so enjoyable. We were offered traditional Arabic coffee and desserts. Along the way, we spotted Camel Island, where a group of camels and a herd of cows graze on the island. We then reached a stationary boat, where we learned about pearl diving and pearl farming.
The kids were thrilled to get hands-on experience: learning how pearl divers worked, picking oysters, and discovering which ones held real natural pearls. It was educational, interactive, and so much fun. It’s a rare experience that even adults can enjoy. The tour ended with a viewing of real pearls and learning how to spot natural and cultivated pearls.
Al Suwaidi Pearl Farm is a must-do family destination in Ras Al Khaimah. And Rams itself? Beyond its stunning coastal scenery, it’s a place where nature and history come together in the most beautiful way.
So, where do Dubai families unwind on weekends? We escape to the scenic coastal towns of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, where calm beaches meet rugged mountains. We pitch tents in the desert, breathe in the quiet, and slow down — far from Dubai’s fast-paced rhythm.
Our recent trip to Ras Al Khaimah wasn’t just fun; it was a gentle reminder to pause, reconnect, and enjoy the simple moments as a family, no matter how exhilarating city life can be.
Planning a full Ras Al Khaimah family getaway? If you want a complete guide to glamping and family stays in RAK, check out my other blog!
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