Ras Al Khaimah City Code – A Guide to the Emirate’s Regulations

Ras Al Khaimah, commonly referred to as RAK, is a city and one of the seven emirates that compose the United Arab Emirates.

As the capital of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, the town holds a position of economic and cultural importance.

When trying to reach someone in Ras Al Khaimah via telephone from outside the UAE, it is necessary to know the city code. The city code for Ras Al Khaimah is “7. This must be dialled after the UAE’s daily code, “971”.

Historically, Ras Al Khaimah has been an area of strategic significance. From its early days as a trading port to its current status as a hub for industry and tourism, the emirate has substantially developed.

The geography of Ras Al Khaimah includes a creek that divides the city, a feature central to its growth and layout. The town boasts varied terrain, from coastal beaches to fertile agricultural land and imposing mountain ranges.

Ras Al Khaimah City Code – Key Takeaways

• You require the city code “7” to dial Ras Al Khaimah from abroad, preceded by the UAE country code “971”.
• Ras Al Khaimah has a rich history has evolved from a trading port to a modern city.
• The emirate’s geography features diverse landscapes, contributing to its economic and cultural expansion.

Overview of Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah, often abbreviated as RAK, is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Situated in the northern part of the country, it offers a rich tapestry of diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches to sprawling oases, rugged mountains, and fertile plains.

Governance: The emirate is ruled by Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, who presides over the region, ensuring economic development and the well-being of its residents.

Geography:

• Location: Northeastern UAE
• Landscapes: Includes the Hajar Mountains and coastal areas
• Climate: Arid, with hot summers and mild winters

Economy:

• Traditional Industries: Based upon fishing, pearl diving, and trading
• Modern Diversification: Now expanding into tourism, real estate, and manufacturing sectors

As you explore Ras Al Khaimah, you’ll witness its strategic importance as an archaeological and historical site, suggesting continuous human habitation for over 7,000 years.

Connectivity:

• Local Time Zone: UTC+4
• Area Code: +971 (UAE) followed by specific numbers for RAK

Ras Al Khaimah integrates tradition with modern development. Its thriving economy, sustainable growth, and cultural heritage testify to the UAE’s diverse offerings.

Historical Significance

Your exploration into the historical roots of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) reveals a rich tapestry that stretches back several millennia. The area of Shimal, for instance, is a treasure trove of archaeological significance. Here, you would encounter remnants of prehistoric tombs and a settlement that dates back to the 2nd millennium BCE, indicative of the long-standing human presence in the region.

The influence of the Sassanid Empire, which reigned from 224 to 651 CE, is still evident in RAK. Your interest may be piqued by the remnants of Sassanid-era fortifications, tangible evidence of the emirate’s strategic importance in coastal defence and trade of that era.

Julfar, once a thriving port and a city of great importance in the region, rose to prominence during the Islamic Golden Age, flourishing from the 14th to the 18th centuries. This historic city played a crucial role in maritime commerce across the Indian Ocean, with the trade of pearls and pottery shards among the artefacts that tell the story of its economic prowess.

Lastly, Ras Al Khaimah has witnessed continuous human habitation as a settlement for over 7,000 years. Its endurance is remarkable and accentuates the emirate’s significance within the broader context of the UAE’s history. The RAK you see today has been shaped by a diverse mix of cultures, rulers, and civilisations that have left an indelible mark on its development and legacy.

Geography and Key Locations

Exploring Ras Al-Khaimah uncovers a dynamic blend of coastal and mainland regions, each boasting unique characteristics and a collection of islands noted for their attractions.

Mainland and Coastal Regions

Ras Al-Khaimah, your destination, is poised at the northernmost point of the UAE. This emirate unfolds across a mainland defined by diverse terrain – from sandy coastlines to rugged mountains.

The coastal strip is where you’ll find Al Hamra Village and Al Marjan Island, offering modern amenities and picturesque beaches. The coastline, stretching 64 km, is also where the Creek divides the cityscape, separating the western Old Town from Al Nakheel on the east.

• Al Mamourah, Al Dhait North, and Al Dhait South are notable for their residential and commercial developments.
• Al Ghail, Al Ghubb, and Al Hamraniyah serve as industrial and agricultural zones, contributing to the emirate’s economic diversification.
• Corniche Road epitomises the emirate’s urban progress, running along the Creek and featuring a promenade perfect for evening strolls.

Major Islands and Attractions

Al Marjan Island stands out as a beacon of luxury – an artificial archipelago attracting tourists and investors with its opulent resorts and residential areas. It’s a cornerstone in the vision of Ras Al-Khaimah as an eminent tourism destination. Here, you’ll discover:

• Mina Al Arab: A waterfront community with residences, hotels, and retail outlets.
• Al Qurm is recognised for its lush public park, providing green space and leisure opportunities.

The historical gem, Al Jazirah Al Hamra, tells tales of a bygone era, once a thriving fishing and pearl-diving village. Al Rams is another traditional area where fishing remains central to daily life, giving you insights into the emirate’s rich cultural heritage.

• Al Nakheel: A bustling commercial hub lined with shops and markets in the heart of Ras Al-Khaimah.
• Al Uraibi, Al Sharisha, and Al Juwais reflect the heritage with their time-honoured neighbourhoods and contribute to the emirate’s grounded cultural atmosphere.

Your journey across Ras Al-Khaimah reveals a well-fused depiction of tradition and modernity, where every locality has a story steeped in the emirate’s vibrant past and present.

Economic Development

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has established itself as a significant economic centre in the UAE. Through focused development strategies, your city has cultivated a dynamic environment for trade and infrastructure expansion alongside a flourishing tourism sector enriched by the emirate’s cultural heritage.

Trade and Infrastructure

RAK’s geographic location with access to major shipping lanes has been pivotal in developing Port Al Ghubb. This port has become a key logistics hub that supports international trade and boosts the local economy. The advancements in infrastructure also extend to Dain, which provides industrial facilities enhancing the emirate’s manufacturing capabilities.

• Port Al Ghubb: A central axis for maritime trade.
• Dain: An industrial zone with modern facilities.

The city’s proactive approach to developing its infrastructure facilitates business operations and eases the movement of goods.

Tourism and Culture

Your experience in RAK will be augmented by its rich cultural framework and touristic appeal. Attractions such as historical sites and natural landscapes draw visitors, contributing to the city’s economic vitality. Investments in tourism infrastructure reflect RAK’s commitment to diversifying its economy.

• Historical Sites: Forts and museums showcasing the emirate’s history.
• Natural Landscapes: Beaches and mountains offer diverse leisure activities.

RAK has tapped into its cultural assets to create a unique tourism offering, positioning itself as a cultural enrichment and adventure destination.

Governance and Administration

In Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), local statutes and a structured legal framework will shape your experience of city governance and administration. These components are instrumental in maintaining the city’s development and compliance with various regulations.

Local Governance

The leadership and vision of Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi shape your engagement with local governance in Ras Al Khaimah.

As the ruler, his decisions impact various aspects of administration within the city’s boundaries, including but not limited to Al Dhait North, Al Dhait South, Al Hamra Village, and Al Jazirah Al Hamra. The local government is responsible for urban planning, building regulations, and ensuring sustainable development to meet the needs of both residents and businesses.

Legal Framework

The legal framework governing Ras Al Khaimah is comprehensive, encompassing federal laws of the UAE and local regulations specific to RAK. You will find laws and decrees that regulate real estate, environmental protection, and anti-money laundering measures.

Notably, Law No. (11) of 2021, concerning the Land Register in RAK and measures to counter financial crimes, illustrate the emirate’s commitment to transparency and legal compliance.

Through this structured approach to governance and administration, Ras Al Khaimah provides clear guidelines for living, working, or doing business within the city, ensuring a balanced and legally sound environment.