Ras Al Khaimah is one of the main 7 cities of the United Arab Emirates. Archaeological excavations in Ras al-Khaimah have revealed that there was a settlement with an advanced civilization which where trading with the Indian sub-continent.
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Historical records mention that the city of Ras al-Khaimah was known as Julfar and that it belonged to Muslim Caliphs. It was invaded by the Portuguese, the Persians and the Dutch; it became part of the Al Qawasim State sometime in the 18th century.
There is a great shopping centre in Ras al-Khaimah called the Al Manar Mall, where you can shop till you drop and also get out of the very hot sun. About 15 kilometres out of the city is the Dhayah Fort a strategic military tower build in the 16th century out of mud-brick, facing the Gulf, the tower was very important in the history of Ras al-Khaimah. There are also many Watch Towers in the area.
The National Museum of Ras al-Khaimah was once the residence of the ruling family of Ras al-Khaimah. The museum houses a collection of archaeological and ethnological artefacts. The main souk in Ras al-Khaimah sells everything from fabrics to kitchen wares to gold. There is also a fish market that is supplied by the fishing boats moored along side it. A smaller souk close by sells interesting but hard to find Arabic souvenirs. Among all these are many tea rooms where the locals would sit and chat with you.
