Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE is one of the very few places that have constantly been inhabited, being the longest-settled place in the world. To cherish Emirates history, the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah is home to a fantastic collection of archaeological and ethnological artefacts to explore.
Let’s explore the National Museum in RAK and find out what it has to offer.
- The History of the National Museum, RAK
- Why the National Museum of RA#K is Worth Visiting
- Nearby Attractions and Activities
- Opening Hours, Contact and Ticket Information
- FAQs
The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah – An Overview
The National Museum is located near the Muhammad Salim Mosque on the city’s west edge. It was built in the historical fort ‘Husn’ in old Ras Al Khaimah city, close to the sea. Founded in the 18th century, this museum has been constantly extended over the last 200 years to meet the needs of the day.
The museum was originally built as a defence building and served as a residence for the Quwasim family in the 20th century before it was converted into a museum in 1987.
Today, multiple rooms of the museum have been opened to the public. They display several archaeological and traditional artefacts from the emirate’s rich history. Most of these pieces were donated by the Quwasim family.
The History of the National Museum, RAK
Diving deeper into the museum’s history revealed that the building was built by Muhammad Bin Salim as an Early Fort in the old town of Ras Al Khaimah. The Portuguese destroyed it twice in 1621 and the British in 1820. Later, in 1964, the fort became the residence of a famous ruling family of Quwasim and served them until the late ruler, H.H. Sheikh Saqr Bin Muhammad al-Qasimi, decided to shift to a more modern building in Mamoura.
Afterward, this fort became a prison and a police headquarters before finally converting into a museum in 1987.
Why the National Museum of RAK is Worth Visiting
The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah is a must-see attraction for visitors. Especially if you are a history enthusiast, you will love to explore the museum’s incredible collection and display of antique and beautiful archaeological and ethnographical artefacts.
Moreover, the genius ideas behind the fort’s construction and rich history are worth discussing.
Whether you are visiting Ras Al Khaimah’s beaches, malls, or parks, add the National Museum to your list for the following reasons:
Archaeology
One primary reason to visit the National Museum is to explore a stunning archaeological collection from the entire UAE. Moreover, it is one of the best Museums in the UAE. Archaeologists have utilised all the traditional materials used in this fort, like coral stones and mangrove beams, for restoration.
Ethnography
The museum’s ethnographical section will give you an insight into the traditional Emirati lifestyle. The galleries feature an incredible display of architecture, agricultural practices, pearl diving, and date and pearl fishing.
The museum is also home to many artefacts, ranging from painted pans displaying village life to stone pots and madbasas, displayed in the Exhibit Gallery. Many artefacts in the museum were donated by the Quwasim family and residents of Ras Al Khaimah.
The museum also offers many traditional performances like the Al-Wahabbiya. This drum song is performed at weddings, feasts, and other special occasions.
The Fort’s Genius Construction
All traditional houses in Ras Al Khaimah’s old town, including the fort, were constructed with coral stone. The museum contains all the preserved sites in their original form, built with coral stone that kept the buildings cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
The fort consists of a massive rectangular tower, the building’s oldest part. Its base and lower parts are still intact since the 1800s, whereas the upper parts were rebuilt after the British attacks in 1819. The wind tower is also a prominent feature of the museum.
Situated all around the courtyard are traditional wood doors with beautiful carvings. These doors now lead to the museum areas, which display many artefacts.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
The following are some attractions and activities located near the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah:
Popular Nearby Restaurants and Cafes
- 1484 By Puro
- UMI
- Karma Cafe
- Lexington Grill
- Ula
- Meze
- Thunder Road Pizza & Grill
- Piacere Da Gustare
- The Huddle Sports Bar & Grill
- Infinity Pool Bar
Popular Nearby Activities
- Jais Flight- The World’s Longest Zipline
- Jais Sky Tours
- Adveturati Outdoor
- Suwaidi Pearls
- ActionFlight – Hot Air Balloon
- Novo Cinemas
- Super Bowling Centre
- Jais Sledder
- Al Marjan Island Sppedboat Tours
- Jazirah Aviation Club
Popular Nearby Attractions
- Dhayah Fort
- Al Jazeerah al Hamra
- Al Qawasim Corniche
- Mohammed bin Salim Mosque
- Saqr Park
- Flamingo Beach
- Jais Viewing Deck Park
- Al Qassimi Palace
- RAK Nature Treasures
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Opening Hours, Contact and Ticket Information
The museum is open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. It is closed on Mondays. On Sundays, it is open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Address: Al Hisn Road, Old Ras Al Khaimah, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
- Contact: +971 7 233 3411
- Ticket Price: The ticket price is only
- AED 5 for adults and
- AED 2 for children.
FAQs
Ras Al Khaimah is known for its diverse landscape, which includes the Hajar mountains, rolling sand dunes, and 64 kilometres of beaches. It also offers many adventure tourism attractions. The economy is stable and varied, with separate executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
Ras Al Khaimah City, also known as RAK or RAK City, is the capital of the Emirate and where most of its residents live. It is connected to the historic Islamic trading port of Julfar.
Archaeological excavations show that advanced trading civilisations have existed in this region since 5000 BC. This rich history, dating back to the Bronze Age, makes Ras Al Khaimah one of the few places worldwide with continuous settlement for over 7,000 years.
Ras Al Khaimah is a treasure chest for adventure and history enthusiasts who love to try new things every day. The museums and many other things to do at Ras Al Khaimah make your trip worth visiting.
Moreover, check out these best properties for rent in Ras Al Khaimah to make your stay more memorable.
