Al-Khushaym

Al-Khushaym

Ras al-Khaimah (alternatively Ra'sal-Khaymah; Arabic: رأس الخيمة‎ Rā's al Ḫaima) is one of the emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on the east side of the Persian Gulf. Its name means "Top of the Tent". The emirate is in the northern part of the UAE, bordering Oman's exclave of Musandam. It covers an area of 1,700 square km. The capital city and home of most residents is also called Ras al-Khaimah. The city has a population of 263,217 as of 2008. The city has two main sections, Old Ras al-Khaimah and Nakheel, on either side of a creek. It is served by the Ras al-Khaimah International Airport. It consists of a northern part (where the city of Ras al-Khaimah is situated), a large exclave in the south (near Hatta), and a few small islands in the Persian Gulf.

Important towns, settlements and areas include:

  • Al Jazirah Al Hamra – an old coastal town with numerous real estate projects and industrial zone
  • Ar-Rams – a coastal town; in the past, a typical fishing and pearl-diving village
  • Khawr Khuwayr – an industrial zone, with the largest port in Ras al-Khaimah and numerous companies such as a cement factory
  • Diqdaqah – a village known for agriculture activities
  • Khatt – a village surrounded by the mountains, famous for its thermal springs and palm gardens
  • Masafi – a town in the south, on the border with Fujairah; well known for drinking water
  • Huwaylat – a central village in the south

Read more about Al-Khushaym:  History, Climate, Landmarks