Many people discount the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for family holidays due to the scorching heat in the summer holidays. But if you’re wondering where to go on a family holiday in the October half term, this is the perfect time to visit Ras Al Khaimah (RAK). With an average temperature of 24°C, it will feel plenty hot enough for days at the beach. Humidity levels drop from their highest — around 87% on 20th August — to an average of 48% in October, making an autumn trip much more comfortable for the whole family. RAK is an easy, seven-hour direct flight from London, so it’s a great choice for families with limited time seeking a little summer sun. You can pack a lot into a week and be back in time for the first day at school. So why is Ras Al Khaimah the perfect choice for a family holiday in October?
Family Excitement and Adventure at Jebel Jais, the World’s Longest Zipline
Jebel Jais is part of the stunning Hajar mountain range and is the UAE’s highest peak. You could fill an entire week’s holiday with fun family activities staying in this one location. From hiking, cycling, sightseeing and camping, there’s plenty for an active family to enjoy.
The biggest draw is the Guinness certified World’s Longest Zipline. The brave-hearted thrill seeker can zip over the mountain range 1,680 metres above sea level, reaching speeds of up to 160kph. A certified guide will accompany you at all times and everyone who takes part is given a full safety briefing before setting off on the ultimate adventure. This is a great day out for all family members aged between 12 and 65. The most popular time to visit RAK is December to February when this attraction books up quickly — families visiting in October should find it less crowded. However, if this is top of your “must do” list, it’s a good idea to book online to secure your slot.
To wind down after the adrenaline rush, why not grab a bite to eat and enjoy the breath-taking views at one of the seven viewing decks on the top of Jebel Jais? There’s even an ice rink which sits 1300 metres above sea level! This is open to children over the age of three, so for those too young to join in the zip line adventure, this is a great alternative.
Take a Day Trip to Dubai
Dubai is less than an hour’s drive from RAK and it’s well worth a visit. If you’ve already braved the World’s Longest Zipline, why not go for another record-breaking holiday adventure by shooting to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building or sliding down the world’s longest water coaster at the Aquaventure Waterpark?
There are a variety of ticket options for the Burj Khalifa, but all experiences include a thrilling ride on the world’s fastest double-deck elevator, which will speed you to the top observation deck at 10m/s. Relax and enjoy the incredible views or try out the new immersive experience — stand on the glass-floor and feel the glass crack beneath your feet!
The Atlantis The Palm’s Aquaventure Waterpark is currently undergoing expansion and will become one of the biggest waterparks in the world by 2020. The water park already offers 30 water slides and attractions. By next year, there will also be a 34-metre tall Trident Tower and 12 new rides — including the world’s longest ProSlide MammothBlast water coaster. All ages are catered for and a new children’s area will be introduced in 2020 to include mini versions of the ProSlide rides for the younger members of your family.
Outdoor Adventures and Relaxation on the Beach
October is an ideal time to enjoy all the outdoor adventures and activities that Ras Al Khaimah has to offer. Temperatures are more comfortable and there is likely to be fewer crowds. If you’re seeking a little relaxation amidst the whirl of family adventure activities, there is no shortage of expansive white sandy beaches to choose from. Temperatures are perfect for sunbathing, swimming and building sandcastles at this time of year. Over the last few years, more luxury beach resorts have sprung up, each with their own privately owned sandy beach. Many have natural lagoons and there’s a huge range of watersports to choose from. Most of these friendly hotels offer fantastic amenities for families, such as kids clubs and activities.
Away from the beach, the Al Wadi Equestrian Centre provides horseback and camel treks through the desert for riders of all capabilities. Enjoy stunning views of the dunes while riding an Arabian camel and see who is the first to spot some of the native desert creatures that thrive in this environment. Children can also take part in an interactive lesson in caring for the horses, including grooming, washing and riding these beautiful creatures.
If you prefer to travel on 4-wheels, a 4×4 adventure through the sand dunes could be the perfect holiday adventure for you and your family. There are countless tour operators to choose from. Many create a package, including entertainment and food. There’s also the option to camp overnight in the desert, enjoy a sunset barbeque and watch the stars above as you settle down for the night — a truly magical experience for the whole family.
Visit Ras Al Khaimah This October Half Term
Ras Al Khaimah is a perfect family holiday destination for the October half-term. Temperatures drop from the dizzy heights reached in August by at least 10 degrees and it will feel much less humid. A straight forward flight from the UK makes RAK an easy destination to get to if you only have time for a week away or even a short break before school starts again. Whatever the age of your children and whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or both, in Ras Al Khaimah you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Why not check out our extensive range of resorts in Ras Al Khaimah and find the perfect family holiday package for your October half term getaway? We have a number of family hotels and inclusive holidays for your half-term holiday. Need some further travel advice? Get in touch and one of our friendly advisors will be glad to help.
