Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is the northern-most emirate in the UAE and has been ruled by His Highness Shaikh Saqr bin Mohmmad Al Qasimi since 1948.

It is the smallest of the seven emirates by some way, covering just 168 square kilometers. That’s just over two per cent of the total mainland of the UAE.

The Emirate has been largely dependent upon traditional occupations, such as fishing, trading and agriculture. Since the establishment of the Federation, much effort has been put into modernising these traditional sectors to meet the demands of the UAE's economy.

In the 1980's, Ras Al Khaimah discovered the small, though useful, offshore Saleh oilfield. Ras Al Khaimah abounds in tuna fish. Another important local industry is cement and building materials.

Ras Al Khaimah’s Saqr Port (Mina Saqr), located next to the town of Ras Al Khaimah, is a deep water port with the latest facilities. It has also developed its new Free Zone on the Al Holaylah Island.

The city of Ras Al Khaimah is divided into two sections by Khor (creek) Ras Al Khaimah. In the western section, known as Old Ras Al Khaimah, are Ras Al Khaimah National Museum and a number of government departments.

The eastern part, known as Al Nakheel, houses the Ruler's office, several government departments and commercial companies. The two sections are connected by a large bridge built across the khor.

RAK was also once the centre of the naval strength of the southern Gulf states. Clashes with the British Navy led to its downfall in 1820 and the subsequent arrival of a British presence upon the local scene.

Ras Al Khaimah officially became a part of the UAE Federation on October 10, 1972, a year after the Federation was formed.