Need a quick getaway from the city? Or simply need to explore the mountains on the weekend? Whatever the mood, knowing how to get from Dubai to RAK is essential.
Ras Al Khaimah is an often underrated gem of the UAE, with everything from pristine beaches and luxury resorts to adrenaline-pumping mountain adventures available.
So if you’re planning your next visit there, there’s no dearth of ways to make it to your destination. The drive from Dubai usually takes around an hour to an hour and a half, making it ideal for a weekend escape.
There are several options to travel from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah, depending on your budget and comfort preferences. Choose from official buses, shuttles, private cars, or a taxi.
Buses are unsurprisingly the more economical choice, especially if you commute between the two emirates frequently. However, private cars and taxis offer convenience and flexibility for a slightly higher cost.
If Jebel Jais is your final destination in Ras Al Khaimah, using a car would be the easiest way to get to the mountain. There are taxis readily available; both Al Hamra Taxis and Arabia Taxis have fleets controlled by the government.
You could also choose to book a Ladies Taxi for extra privacy and exclusivity.
Alternatively, private cars and/or rental cars can easily make their way up Jebel Jais. The roads are extremely well-maintained and easy to navigate, and you don’t even need a 4x4 or SUV to make the trip!
Take a look at your options and make sure to keep checking timings and prices against official websites!
One of the easiest ways to travel from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah is via the government-run RAKTA bus service.
Created in cooperation with Al Hamra, there are 12 shuttles daily operating between Dubai Union Bus Station and RAK.
Like with all things in the UAE, the buses are designed to be reliable, comfortable, and budget-friendly.
The earliest bus from Ras Al Khaimah starts at 5:30 am, with the last bus departing at 8 pm. From Dubai, buses run from 7:30 am until 11 pm at the latest.
Tickets cost anywhere between AED 22 and AED 27 per journey, so you can make the entire two-hour ride in the cheapest manner possible.
The RAKTA buses are modern and well-equipped, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. The best part is the convenience and safety offered, making it perfect for women and children travelling alone as well.
The bus and updated schedules can be tracked using the Sayr App, which also helps plan any return trips or intercity connections.
You can also use the Albosola RAK Transport Authority smart application for more information and updates.
And it’s not just Dubai to RAK shuttles either. If you’re looking to explore other nearby emirates but don’t have a driver’s license or a car, RAKTA provides affordable public bus connections to Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain.
Fares depend on the destination and other factors, but start at just AED 15.
Apart from being supremely economical, buses are also far more sustainable as an option when it comes to long-distance commuting. However, it must be noted that due to additional stops, it could take you two hours to make the journey.
If you’re pressed for time but still don’t want to shell out the big bucks, this one’s a great alternative.
The RAK Shuttle Service, launched by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, run from Dubai International Airport Terminals 1 and 3.
With a travel time of roughly an hour, the shuttle service is perfect for airport arrivals or direct hotel transfers. Tickets cost around AED 30 per person, and the buses come with free Wi-Fi. So all you need to do is sit back and relax, or catch up on correspondence!
Another massive advantage of the RAK shuttle is drop-offs to major hotels across the emirate. These include -
Definitely an option if you’re looking for quick and direct transfers that take less time!
If you’re looking to explore Ras Al Khaimah at your own pace, driving from Dubai is probably your best option!
The distance between both emirates is approximately 130 km via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Travelling by car allows you to explore RAK to its fullest according to your timings and of course, within the privacy of your own vehicle.
If you don’t have a car, you could always rent one through numerous applications and in-person stores. Or if you’d rather not drive yourself, renting a car with a driver is another option.
You’ll easily find these services across car rental companies in Dubai, combining comfort and convenience for a stress-free journey. This option is ideal for groups, families, or anyone looking to travel in style while avoiding the hassle of navigation or parking.
There is yet another option with the likes of Zofeur or Safe Driver in recent times. You can choose someone to drive you around within select areas where the service operates. The drivers will arrive at a location of your choosing and depart at your destination. Talk about convenience!
Of course, nothing beats the immediate convenience of a taxi. While definitely on the higher end of things, it’s worth avoiding any extra steps, especially if you’re in a hurry.
Generally, the Dubai to RAK taxi fare is around AED 300 or more, depending on your exact pick-up point. Like with your own vehicle, the journey could take a little over an hour. There are multiple avenues to get taxis. If you’re arriving at an airport, there are taxis that can be booked inside.
You could also try RTA, Al Arabia Taxi, or ride-hailing services like Careem, Yango and Uber. While online cab services may be slightly more expensive than RTA taxis, they provide added flexibility and comfort, with some offering premium vehicle options.
Of course, a lot of properties in Ras Al Khaimah also provide complimentary transfers to and from Dubai International Airport as part of their guest services. While booking your stays, you can check with the reception or concierge for airport and city transfers.
Choose your stop from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah carefully to minimise travel time. On arrival, however, the emirate’s intercity bus network is fairly easy to navigate.
The red route connects key destinations such as Al Nakheel, Manar Mall, RAK Mall, Corniche Al-Qawasim, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Flamingo Beach, Union Bridge, Al Hamra Bus Station, Mina Al Arab, Emirates Post, RAKEZ, Acacia Hotel, and the church.
The purple route links universities and educational institutions with central locations, while the green route serves residents accessing offices, parks, and healthcare facilities.
The blue route covers areas including Julphar, Shemal, Al Rams, Saqr Port, and Ghalila, making it easy to reach both tourist and local spots.
While travel from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah can be pretty straightforward, you might want to plan ahead if availing public services. Always check timings against applications, and check if bookings need to be made, especially for shuttle or bus services.
Whether you’re heading for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the emirate is well-connected and ready to welcome you.