Jazirat al-Hamra (Ras Al Khaimah)- Complete Guide
Jazirat al-Hamra is a historic small village located just south of the Ras Al Khaimah city. It looks like a true archival photograph. You will feel drawn to its tight streets, coral-stone buildings, old mosque, and wind towers. This blog takes you on a Jazirat al-Hamra tour and directly into the past.
History of The Jazirat al-Hamra
In the early 1800s, Jazirat al-Hamra was a small tidal island of around two hundred people, where most of them were pearl divers. Further, Sheikh Rajib bin Ahmed Al Zaabi even signed the historic treaty with the British in 1820, which defined the destiny of the Trucial States. Moreover, the village became a rising pearling center over time, with up to 500 houses and a fleet of boats sailing on the Gulf.
However, this lifestyle started to change when the pearl trade failed in the late 1920s. By the twentieth century, the conflicts with the neighboring rulers and the new opportunities elsewhere drew the families away. In 1968, Sheikh Zayed invited the majority of the Zaab tribe to move to Abu Dhabi and leave the once-vibrant town. You can witness the rich past even today, while strolling through its coral-stone dwellings, ancient mosque, and wind towers. They are now carefully preserved as one of the best heritage places in Ras Al Khaimah.
Things to See/Do at Jazirat al-Hamra, RAK
- Ghost town- Take a walk through the deteriorating coral-stone structures and narrow alleyways where families used to live.
- Heritage tour- If you want to learn the history behind the ruins, go on a guided tour. You’ll learn about the traditions, the daily lives of pearl divers, and even the architecture that kept homes cool without air conditioning.
- Spot the Hollywood touch- Did you know Jazirat al-Hamra caught the eye of filmmakers? Parts of the Netflix movie 6 Underground were filmed here, so don’t be surprised if you get déjà vu while exploring.
- Soak in the spooky legends- The village is wrapped in folklore. Some even say that jinn roam the deserted streets at night. The mystery makes your visit a little more exciting, whether you are a thrill-seeker or a skeptic.
Location & Timing Details
- Address- Located just off the E11 highway in Ras Al Khaimah
- Entry fee- Free of cost
- Timings- Open 24 hours
- Time to spend- Around 1 to 4 hours
- Best time to visit- Morning or late afternoon
How to Reach
- By car or taxi: From Ras Al Khaimah, it is about 20 km away and will take 15 to 20 minutes to drive.
- By local bus: There is a Red Line bus from Al Nakheel to Jazirat al-Hamra. It takes around 40 minutes and costs about AED 6-9.
- By public transport apps: RAK Sayr app helps plan your trip and book bus or taxi rides easily.
5 Nearby Spots to Tour
- Dhayah Fort- If you are not afraid of a small hike, you will breathe in the glory of this hill-top fort. There is a panorama of mountains, palm gardens, and the sea. Besides, it is not just about the scenery. This is the final fort to hold back the British siege in 1819; hence, each stone here tells a story.
- Al Falayah Fort- This may seem to be a normal fort, but it is the place where the 1820 treaty was signed, the agreement that contributes significantly to the UAE.
- National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah– History lovers should go there, as the museum is situated within a former fort. Additionally, they show you thousands of years of stories. From Stone Age tools to a rare 12th-century gold coin, even a centuries-old palm seed, it’s like walking through time.
- Al Marjan Island- Al Marjan Island brings you back to the present after you have had a taste of ruins and forts. From beaches and resorts to the restaurants, you will find everything within an artificial coral-shaped archipelago.
- Shimal Village- Ancient tombs and a quiet fort in the foothills are great for a calm stroll and a peek into the region’s ancient past.
Takeaway
Jazirat al-Hamra offers more than old walls; it’s a bridge to stories and heritage. In its silence, you feel how architecture, lives, and time blend. This blog also offers clear timing advice, practical transport options, and extra nearby spots to explore, making your visit enriched and effortless. Visit Jazirat al-Hamra, walk its quiet lanes, and add real history to your journey this Dubai trip.