If you take part in the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon in February, you will experience much more than just running.
Not only does Ras Al Khaimah stage one of the world’s best half-marathon races, but it’s also one of the most “must-see” cities, with brilliant weather, great infrastructure, golden beaches and world-class dining and shopping.
18:00th The RAK Half will be launched on February 1, with four different race distances available on Al Marjan Island in the United Arab Emirates. You can choose a 2km, 5km, 10km or half marathon.
Along with its famous running event, Ras Al Khaimah is known for its outstanding nature, leisure, adventure and authentic offerings. The northernmost Emirate of the UAE has become one of the most sought-after destinations in the Middle East.
For those traveling to the Emirate, remember that there is no hard border crossing from Ras Al Khaimah and its neighboring emirates, including Dubai. So you can travel freely between Ras Al Khaimah and the other bordering emirates without any restrictions.
Those with a real taste for mountaintop adventure can take the world’s longest zipline. Over 2.8 km long “jumps” can reach speeds of up to 150 km/h.
Soar over jagged mountain peaks and zip through deep canyons at hair-raising speeds. A three-minute adrenaline-pumping adventure at 1,680m above the Arabian Gulf will leave you with a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
There’s also the Jais Sky Tour, which takes explorers on a challenging route of six ziplines ranging from just 337m to over 1km to experience the thrill of ‘flying’ at an average speed of 60km/h.
When you’re in the area, it’s also easy to combine a visit to the Suwaid Pearl Farm. A short boat trip from the coast can take you to a farm where cultured pearls are grown.
Abdullah Al Suwaydi opened the Suwaydi Pearl Farm in honor of his late grandfather, Mohammed. Abdullah watched in awe as his grandfather disappeared under the water for minutes and returned to the spherical translucent treasures worn by royalty. Abdullah was convinced that Muhammad was half man and half fish.
Al Wadi Equestrian Adventure Center is nestled among the rolling red sand dunes of Ras Al Khaimah’s desert lands. The center is home to beautiful Arabian horses, rare oryx, rocking camels, beautiful desert foxes and, if you’re very lucky, a shy desert cat. The safe environment allows for an exceptionally authentic experience as you experience Emirati wildlife at its best.
The area is ideal for relaxing before and after the race. The UAE’s highest mountains at Jebel Jais are within easy reach of the many beachfront hotels. The observation deck here offers great views of the mountains at an altitude of 1,250 m. With smooth roads on the mountains, it is a popular place for cyclists to do mountain climbs.
Bear Grylls Explorers Camp is located in the mountainous northern Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Each scout-instructor is highly skilled and trained in survival techniques practiced by famous British scout Bear Grylls. During your stay at his Ras Al Khaimah camp, his team will empower you with the essential life skills, techniques and attitudes needed to survive in the wilds of the mountains and deserts.
On the race itself, the course has set several world records over the years. In 2007, Sammy Wanjiru set a men’s world record of 58:53 at the RAK Half. Three women’s world records have also been set since then: Mary Kaytani’s 65:50 in 2011, Peres Jepchircir’s 64:52 in 2017 and Abal Yeshane’s 64:31 in 2020.
More recently, in 2022, Jacob Kiplimo and Girmavit Gebrzihair set course records of 57:56 and 64:14 respectively, while Eilish McColgan set a British record of 66:26.
You can learn more about the race and enter here.
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