The best way to travel from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah is by car. It takes about 90 to 95 minutes via the E11 highway. You can drive yourself, hire a taxi, rent a car from a reliable car rental company, or take a bus. Each option works depending on your budget, passenger group, and comfort needs.
Ras Al Khaimah is located in the northern part of the UAE. It's roughly 110 kilometers from Dubai. The trip is straightforward, and you have several options to get there.
Driving Your Own Car From Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah
This is the easiest option if you own or rent a vehicle. The route is simple and well-marked. You'll need GPS once you're on the main highway.
Start by getting onto Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Follow signs toward Sharjah and Ajman. Then merge onto the E11 highway heading north. Stay on E11 until you see signs for Ras Al Khaimah.
The roads are smooth and well-maintained. You'll pass through Sharjah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain on the way.
Parking in Ras Al Khaimah is easy and mostly free. Hotels, malls, and beaches have plenty of parking spots. Gas stations appear every few kilometers if you need to refuel.
Taking a Taxi
Grab a taxi from anywhere in Dubai at a cheap cost. Regular taxis charge 250 to 300 AED for the one-way trip. The price includes tolls. Make sure the driver knows you're going to another emirate.
The benefit here is simple: sit back and relax. No navigation stress, no parking worries. Your driver handles everything.
Some drivers prefer knowing the destination up front. Tell them you're going to Ras Al Khaimah before starting. This avoids confusion later.
Riding the Bus
Buses are the cheapest option. The RAK Transport Authority runs direct buses from Dubai. They leave from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station near the Dubai Creek.
Tickets cost around 25 AED per person. Buses run multiple times daily, roughly every hour during peak times. The journey takes about 2 hours, slightly longer than driving.
You'll need to check the exact schedule. Times change based on the day and season. Arrive at the station 15 minutes early to buy tickets and find your bus.
The buses are air-conditioned and comfortable enough. You won't get luxury, but you'll get there safely and cheaply. Perfect for solo travelers or people watching their budget.
Renting a Car Or Bus For Luxury Travel To Ras Al Khaimah
Car rental is the best option ever for luxury travel. Companies like Al Weam Transport and other local agencies offer daily rates starting at just 100-130 AED. Add insurance, and you're looking at 170-200 AED total.
If your group is too large and consists of 40-50 pax, then it's recommended to always hire a 50 seater premium bus. Always hire a bus or a car with more seating capacity than the passengers.
For Example, if you are a group of 10 pax, then you need to rent a 12 seater van or hire a 14 seater Hiace minibus.
For luxury and VIP rides, you need to rent a Mercedes Sprinter van. If your budget is too high or you have to attend a party or a wedding, then you must hire a premium limo service.
Pick up the car in Dubai, drive to Ras Al Khaimah, explore at your own pace, and return it the same day. This gives you total freedom without the commitment of owning a car.
For family travel, SUVs work better every time. Best SUV options include the Land Cruiser, the GMC Yukon, and the Toyota Fortuner.
Joining a Tour
Several tour operators run day trips from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah. These packages include transportation, sometimes meals, and guided activities. Prices range from 200 to 500 AED, depending on what's included.
Tours work great if you want everything planned out. No driving, no navigation, no booking hotels or restaurants.
Best Time to Travel
Avoid Friday mornings and Thursday evenings. Weekend traffic can add 30 minutes to your trip. Early mornings on weekdays are perfect - roads are clear, and you reach faster.
The summer months get too hot in the UAE. Your car's AC will work overtime. Winter (November to March) offers pleasant weather for road trips.
What You'll Need
Bring your Emirates ID or passport. You might not need it, but it's better to be safe than sorry. Toll gates are automatic with Salik tags. If you're in a rental, tolls are usually included in the final bill.
If you are new or an international visitor in the UAE, then it's recommended to hire a car with a private driver in Dubai. They know all the best routes, shortcuts, and all the UAE traffic laws. So, you don't need to worry.
Pack water bottles and snacks. Rest stops exist, but aren't frequent. Your phone should have a good signal throughout the journey.
Getting Around Ras Al Khaimah
Many hotels offer free shuttles to beaches and malls. Walking works in some areas, but not everywhere. Distances can be deceptive. You can also hire a trusted company for your daily pick and drop service.
The trip from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah isn't complicated. Pick the method that fits your budget and style. You'll be there before you know it.
