Ras Al-Khaimah (“head of the tent”) is an ancient emirate in the northern part of the United Arab Emirates, and with an area of 1700 sq. km. It is the fourth largest emirate in terms of area and population. The city registered a population of 191,753 in 2007.
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The emirate was historically known as Julfar, which was inhabited by the Azd of the Kahlan tribe, one of the two branches of Qahtan (the other being Himyar). In the 18th century, the Qawasim clan (Huwayla tribe) established itself in Ras Al-Khaimah.
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Ras Al-Khaimah signed the maritime treaty with the United Kingdom in 1822, accepting a protectorate against the Ottoman Turks. It later became fully-independent from Sharjah but again re-incorporated from 1900 to 1921.
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In 1972, Sheikh Saqr bin Muhammad al-Qasimi joined the United Arab Emirates.
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The city has two main sections, Old Ras Al-Khaimah, which comprises government departments, educational institutions and shopping malls, and Nakheel, on either side of the Creek which flows through Ras Al-Khaimah. Nakheel houses the Emiri Court, markets and residential areas.
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Ras Al-Khaimah is accessible to Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah by taxis, its main mode of transport. Public buses operate only on long-haul routes. The newly constructed 'Emirates Highway' allows journeys from Ras Al-Khaimah to Dubai within 45 minutes.
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Its stunning location makes it as an ideal tourist destination. There are superb places like the hot springs of Ain Khat, Awafi desert, and the Al Manar Mall.
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With its efficient infrastructure, including hotels, hospitals, museums, archaeological sites, shopping centres and restaurants, RAK has become a developing emirate with visions in tourism, industrial and business growth.
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It is served by three international standard hotels - the 84-room Ras Al Khaimah Hotel, set in landscaped grounds overlooking the Creek; the 140-room Bin Majid Beach Hotel; and the city centre Al Nakheel Hotel. Each offers the full amenities of the finest restaurants, lounges, entertainment, sports and leisure facilities.
