Ras Al-K9: Ras Al Khaimah introduces new dog-friendly initiative

A number of hotels, restaurants, outdoor parks and beaches are involved

Ras Al Khaimah has introduced a new dog-friendly programme of activities, hotels and restaurants.

Ras Al Khaimah is about to get more pet friendly with the introduction of a new programme called Ras Al-K9.

From wadi walks and mountain hikes to beachside excursions, desert adventures and overnight stays, there are now plenty of experiences that guests can enjoy with their four-legged friends across the emirate. The initiative runs across 25 hotels, restaurants, outdoor parks and beaches.

“Ras Al Khaimah’s natural topography alongside its spirit of genuine hospitality appeals to both travellers and their four-legged friends. We understand how hard it can be to leave a beloved pet at home while on holiday so we made it as easy as possible for guests to bring their pawsome family members with them,” says Raki Phillips, chief executive of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.

“Ras Al-K9 is a community initiative, tapping into the emirate’s affinity for dogs and providing hassle free options to explore, engage and stay in Ras Al Khaimah. Teaming up with Ras Al Khaimah Animal Welfare Centre, hotel partners and others committed to animal welfare, we aim to create an inclusive and supportive community for both visitors and their canine companions.”

Here's a guide of things to do with your dog in Ras Al Khaimah

Take in nature

Wadi Shawka in Ras Al Khaimah is a dog-friendly hike. Photo: Farah Andrews

Guests and their dogs can visit Al Jazeera or Flamingo beaches where their canine friend can explore, frolic and play in the water. Or for those who prefer a good hike, Wadi Shah and Wadi Shawka are ideal locations.

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority Team have a developed a series of expert-led videos on social media offering tips on how to best to prepare for an excursion, as well as insights into the various routes and tips on safety.

Grab a bite to eat

Japanese cuisine Ruzo offers pet-friendly outdoor seating at Flamingo Beach. Meanwhile The Club House in Al Hamra welcomes guests with their dogs, as do neighbouring dining venues Marina Muse, Tucano Coffee and Bread & Barrel.

Go on a staycation

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort has recently launched dog-friendly rooms which also have direct access to a 500-metre long private beach area. There’s also a special Bone Appetit room service menu which features grilled boneless chicken and white rice, and chicken sausages with mashed potatoes.

Desert adventure

Visit RAK Glamping for an overnight adventure with a four-legged best friend. The experiences takes places over 10 acres of desert dunes and offers views of the Hajar Mountains. Dogs of all sizes are welcome. The RAK Glamping team will also offer a fenced perimeter, water bowls, tennis balls, special swimming pool and doggy ice cream. There’s even a pet-sitting service for guests who want to explore without their dogs.

Paws by the Beach

The emirate will host its first pet-friendly festival called Paws by the Beach on Marjan Island. The event runs on February 26 and 27 and is designed to be an educational platform to help raise awareness about animal welfare as well as educate pet owners. Local pet groups, vendors, training schools, pet relocation companies, rehabilitative organisations and veterinarians will also be on-site and offer presentations.

Adopt, don’t shop

The Ras Al Khaimah Animal Welfare Centre has a number of cats and dogs looking for their forever homes. Anyone interested in adopting is encouraged to visit the shelter to look for a pet. The shelter, which was founded in 2010 by a group of volunteers, helps rehome around 500 pets a year.