Ras Al Khaimah History
Ras Al Khaimah, renowned as the historical capital of the UAE, holds a significant place in ancient history. The remnants of forts, castles, and archaeological findings stand as a testament to the rich civilizations that once thrived on this land.
Archaeological excavations conducted in Ras Al Khaimah have provided evidence of a civilization that spans over 5,000 years. Thousands of years ago, people settled in Ras Al Khaimah, and the excavations have unearthed artifacts dating back several millennia, showcasing the prosperous periods of Ras Al Khaimah’s ancient history.
During the era of Muslim conquests, Ras Al Khaimah, known as Julphar during the Abbasid period (750-1250 AD), witnessed significant migration. The Kosh site and Al Hulaila Island flourished due to their strategic location along the trade routes in the early Islamic centuries.
Archaeological collections discovered at various sites in the region, including ceramics, crockery, and imported Abbasid pottery from Iraq and other regions, provide valuable insights into the ancient economy and trade. Numerous expeditions have flocked to this area, and their archaeological findings have revealed that Julphar was a thriving hub of trade and commerce between the fourteenth and nineteenth centuries.
Facts
Language:
Arabic serves as the official language in Ras Al Khaimah, while English is widely used in the business sector.
Religion:
Islam is the predominant religion in Ras Al Khaimah.
Longitude and Latitude:
The coordinates for Ras Al Khaimah are approximately 55° 60′ E and 25° 26′ N.
Local Time:
Ras Al Khaimah follows GMT +4 as its local time.
Currency:
The official currency of Ras Al Khaimah is the UAE Dirham (AED).
Area:
The total area of Ras Al Khaimah spans approximately 2478 square kilometers.
International Code:
To make international calls to Ras Al Khaimah, dial +971 (0)7.
Airport:
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport serves as the main airport in the region.
Airport Code:
The airport code for Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is RKT.
Population:
According to a census estimate by RAK Center for Statistics & Studies in 2015, the population of Ras Al Khaimah reached 345,000.
Public Holidays:
Eid Al Fitr: 1st to 3rd of Shawwal
Eid Al Adha: 9th to 12th of Dhu Al Hijjah
Al Hijra New Year’s Day: 1st of Muharram
National Day: 2nd to 3rd December
New Year’s Day: 1st January
Distance from Ras Al Khaimah to other Emirates:
Ras Al Khaimah is well-connected to other emirates through an advanced road network, facilitating trade, domestic tourism, and transportation.
Ras Al Khaimah – Umm al Quwain: 56 kilometers
Ras Al Khaimah – Ajman: 71 kilometers
Ras Al Khaimah – Sharjah: 74 kilometers
Ras Al Khaimah – Dubai: 79 kilometers
Ras Al Khaimah – Abu Dhabi: 275 kilometers
Ras Al Khaimah – Al Fujairah: 130 kilometers
Ras Al Khaimah – Khor Fakkan: 123 kilometers
Cultural Heritage
The government of Ras Al Khaimah places significant emphasis on preserving cultural heritage by fostering the arts and folk traditions. This commitment is reflected through various cultural institutions, heritage associations, and people’s councils that actively contribute to intellectual and cultural development, particularly during special occasions. Some notable cultural institutions include the Research and Documentation Center, Ras Al Khaimah National Theatre, Ras Al Khaimah branch of the Emirates Writers Union, and Cultural Center.
Furthermore, several important clubs and associations dedicated to culture and professions are present in the region. These include the Women’s Renaissance Association, Teachers’ Association, Officers’ Club, Emirates Fine Arts Society, Emirates Scout Association, and Ras Al Khaimah Fishermen Cooperative Society.
Heritage and folklore hold great significance, and several associations are dedicated to their preservation and promotion. These include the Ras Al Khaimah Folk Art Association, Al Rams Folk Artists & Rowing Society, Ibn Majid Folk Art Society, Al Jazeera Al Hamra Association of Folk Arts, Al Nakheel Society for Arts and Heritage, Shamal Folk Arts and Theatre Society, Al Hoboos Arts Heritage Society, Al Shohooh Cultural & Heritage Association, and Al Mataf Heritage & Marine Folklore Society.