The best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah weather is formed by its desert climate which creates hot summers and mild short winters. The best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah is between September and February when temperatures are a lot lower than the hot summer season.
The summer months may not be the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah if you are looking to enjoy sightseeing tours and activities, with temperatures often reaching 45°C between June to August. If you are keen to get out and explore, try to arrange your plans for the cooler evenings when the main high humidity levels drop. Or book a Ras Al Khaimah hotel on the coast, as the cool coastal breeze creates lower temperatures then those experienced further inland.
Moving into autumn Ras Al Khaimah September to November temperatures start to decline making it the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah for water sports. November is renowned as being the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah and is therefore one of the busiest months, to avoid disappointment we recommend booking in advance for the autumn months.
Ras Al Khaimah weather between December to February, brings rain showers and storms with temperatures falling no lower than 22 °C. The winter months are the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah for cultural events and scuba diving.
Between March and May Ras Al Khaimah weather brings occasional rain showers with temperatures rising to 38 °C.
Language and culture
The official language of the UAE is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood. The other languages commonly spoken include Hindi, Urdu and Farsi with newspapers, magazines, TV and radio channels presenting in all these languages.
Ras Al Khaimah has a diverse and multi-cultural society. People in the country are modern and liberal in their views although tourists are encouraged to respect the Muslim culture and follow ethical and modest dressing including covering shoulders and knees in public.
During the holy month of Ramadan, all Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. During this time you will notice a change in policy regarding alcohol, eating and entertainment however it is important to respect the local customs during this holy month as well as enjoying the festivities it brings with it.
Currency and time difference
The monetary unit is the Dirham (Dh or AED) which is divided into 100 fils. Its worth buying currency in advance, however you will have plenty of opportunity to change currency when and if you need it. All major international credit cards are generally accepted in shopping malls, larger supermarkets, stores, hotel and restaurants. Smaller retail shops and small restaurants however, prefer to deal in cash.
The local time is GMT+ 4 hours.
Holiday Visas
British citizens do not require a visa for entry into Ras Al Khaimah. If you or any member of your party is not a British citizen or holds a non-British passport, please check with your appropriate Government consulate or embassy.
What to pack for your Ras Al Khaimah Holiday
With Ras Al Khaimah weather varying throughout the year we advise you consider the following for the arid subtropical climate:
• Lightweight summer clothing with sweaters or jackets for the evenings and during the winter months.
• Swim wear at the pools and beach only, please cover up and respect the local religion and culture in public places.
• During the evening most restaurants have a smart casual dress code.
Medication
Some prescribed and over the counter medicines that are available in the UK are considered controlled substances in the UAE and can’t be brought into the country without prior permission from the UAE Ministry of Health. Guidelines on carrying personal medication into the UAE and a list of controlled medicines can be found on the UAE Ministry of Health website.
Following changes in October 2018, the UAE Ministry of Health announced the requirement for all tourists and residents entering the UAE to complete an electronic form to obtain online approval to carry medication for personal use, prior to entering the country. The Ministry of Health has also published a user guide explaining how to complete the application and the supporting documents required. The British Embassy is currently requesting further information on this process and whether it is required for all types of medication.
For more information on controlled medicines and obtaining permission, contact the UAE Ministry of Health directly by emailing info@moh.gov.ae or calling +971 2 652 0500. If you arrive in the UAE without this permission and the required documentation, the medication will not be allowed into the UAE and you may be prosecuted under UAE law.
The Ministry of Health advise that you can bring up to 3 months’ supply of medication as a visitor or up to 1 months’ supply if the medicine is classed as controlled by the UAE.
Discover the best hotels in Ras Al Khaimah and things to do during your stay.
