The Ras Al Khaimah desert combines red dunes, desert camps and Al Wadi Nature Reserve, a protected area of roughly 5 km². Arabian oryx, gazelles, camels and desert foxes can be seen there.
- Country
- United Arab Emirates
- Type
- Desert
- Best time
- December to February
- Suggested stay
- 1–2 days
- Main gateway airport
- Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT)
- Malaria
- None
Why go to Ras Al Khaimah Desert
- Al Wadi Nature Reserve and its oryx and gazelle feeding experience
- Desert camps with traditional tents or chalets
- Falconry displays and archery
- Horse riding and nature drives in the reserve
- Dune drives and sandboarding
Best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah Desert
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Ras Al Khaimah Desert is December to February.
Best months for camping and desert safaris.
What little rain falls comes in these months; rare heavy rain can affect nearby mountain roads.
Highs reach about 42°C; activities move to early morning and evening.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 13–24 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | peak season |
| February | 14–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| March | 17–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| April | 21–35 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| May | 24–40 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| June | 27–42 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| July | 30–42 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| August | 30–42 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| September | 27–39 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| October | 22–36 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| November | 18–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| December | 14–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | peak season |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Ras Al Khaimah Desert includes oryx, gazelles, camels, foxes and birdlife.
Things to do
- game drives
- dune bashing
- sandboarding
- quad biking
- camel rides
- horseback safaris
- camping
- stargazing
- birdwatching
- cultural visits
Getting there
Desert camps and Al Wadi Nature Reserve are a short drive from Ras Al Khaimah airport and about 1–1.25 hours from Dubai. Trips are arranged through camps, hotels or tour operators, and some experiences need advance booking.
Trips to Ras Al Khaimah Desert
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert for families
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert for a honeymoon
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert for photographers
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert for a first safari
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert on a budget
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert for luxury travel
Compare with
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert vs Liwa
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert vs Mleiha
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert vs Dubai Desert
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert vs Al Marmoom
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert vs Hatta
- Ras Al Khaimah Desert vs Sir Bani Yas Island
Travelling to Ras Al Khaimah Desert from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah Desert?
Generally December to February. Best months for camping and desert safaris.
How many days do I need in Ras Al Khaimah Desert?
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Ras Al Khaimah Desert?
Desert camps and Al Wadi Nature Reserve are a short drive from Ras Al Khaimah airport and about 1–1.25 hours from Dubai. Trips are arranged through camps, hotels or tour operators, and some experiences need advance booking.
Sources: Visit Ras Al Khaimah – Desert experiences · Visit Ras Al Khaimah – Sonara Camp Al Wadi · Weather Spark – Ras al-Khaimah climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.