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Ras Al Khaimah Hotel: A Guide to One of the Emirate’s Longest-Established Hotels

Opened in 1970 and still taking guests. The story of the UAE's oldest hotel, what the rooms are like now, and whether it is worth a night for the history.

Ras Al Khaimah Hotel: A Guide to One of the Emirate’s Longest-Established Hotels

Ras Al Khaimah Hotel offers a different experience from the emirate’s beachfront resorts. Set on an elevated site in Khuzam, the four-star city hotel overlooks Ras Al Khaimah Creek, Al Qawasim Corniche and the Hajar Mountains.

Its central location makes it a practical base for business travellers, short city breaks and visitors who want easy access to Downtown Ras Al Khaimah. For a wider look at the emirate’s districts, browse our areas of Ras Al Khaimah guide.

A Long-Established RAK Hotel

The hotel traces its history to the early 1970s and is among Ras Al Khaimah’s longest-running hospitality properties. Its architecture and interiors retain a more traditional character than the modern resorts found on Al Marjan Island.

Guests interested in the emirate’s history can explore more through our Ras Al Khaimah travel guide.

Rooms, Dining and Facilities

Ras Al Khaimah Hotel has 93 rooms and suites, including standard rooms, larger suites and the traditionally styled Julphar Suite. Rooms include essential amenities, while selected categories provide separate living areas and views across the city, creek or mountains.

Awtar Restaurant serves international food alongside Lebanese, Arabic and European dishes. The hotel also provides 24-hour in-room dining. More restaurants around the city can be found in our where to eat in Ras Al Khaimah guide.

Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, sauna, spa, children’s room and sports areas for squash, padel, table tennis and football.

Location and Nearby Attractions

The hotel is located on Khuzam Street in Dafan Al Khor, close to Al Qawasim Corniche, Downtown Ras Al Khaimah and the Old Town. Tower Links Golf Club is approximately five kilometres away, while Manar Mall, Flamingo Beach and the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah are also within a short drive.

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is approximately 25 minutes away by car, while Dubai International Airport is around one hour away under normal traffic conditions. See our car rental and taxis guide for transport advice.

Who Is It Best For?

Ras Al Khaimah Hotel is best suited to travellers who value city access, practical facilities and a more traditional hotel atmosphere. It is a convenient choice for business trips, short stays and visitors planning to explore the corniche, Old Town, RAK's beaches or Jebel Jais.

For a full list of nearby experiences, browse things to do in Ras Al Khaimah.

Travellers who prefer private beaches and resort-style facilities may be better suited to Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort or SO/ Ras Al Khaimah.

Compare more options through our where to stay in Ras Al Khaimah and Al Marjan Island hotels guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Ras Al Khaimah Hotel located?

It sits on a hilltop in the Khuzam district of Ras Al Khaimah city, with views of the creek, corniche and Hajar Mountains. It's about a 15-minute drive from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport, and it's near Tower Links Golf Course and shopping malls.

Is Ras Al Khaimah Hotel really the oldest hotel in the UAE?

Yes — it was built in 1970 and began operations in May 1971, and it is noted as the oldest hotel in the UAE.

How far is Ras Al Khaimah Hotel from the airport and Dubai?

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is around a 15-minute drive, and Dubai International Airport is around a 45-minute drive.

Does Ras Al Khaimah Hotel have a pool and beach access?

The hotel has an outdoor pool, plus a gym, sauna, and tennis and squash courts. It's a city-centre hotel rather than a beachfront resort, so for direct beach access you'd look at RAK's coastal or Al Marjan Island resorts. RAK beach is an easy day trip from the hotel.

What restaurants and dining options are at Ras Al Khaimah Hotel?

There's a buffet restaurant and Awtar Restaurant, which serves international cuisine with Lebanese, Arabic and European specialities. The hotel also offers 24-hour in-room dining.

How does Ras Al Khaimah Hotel compare to Marjan Island resorts?

Ras Al Khaimah Hotel is a 4-star, heritage, city-centre hotel focused on convenience and value. Marjan Island and beach resorts such as SO/ Ras Al Khaimah, Sofitel Al Hamra and Waldorf Astoria offer private beaches, multiple pools and resort-style dining. Pick the hotel for city access and history, and a resort for a full beach holiday.

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P.O. Box 56, Khozam Street, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

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