Ras Al-Khaimah Be Surpassed By Umm Al Quwain As UAE’s New Top International Travel Hotspot? Discover The Reasons!

Saturday, July 6, 2024

The tourism landscape within the UAE is characterized by a diverse range of attractions across its different emirates. But did you know that Umm Al Quwain can be considered as the new international tourist hotspot than Ras Al-Khaimah? Although not as renowned as Dubai or Abu Dhabi, both emirates offer unique features that attract global travel interest. It is solely due to the fact of the absence of a tourist tax in Umm Al Quwain presents a potential advantage over its neighbors, including Ras Al-Khaimah. In Ras Al Khaimah, hotels impose a tourism fee of AED 15 per room, per night. This charge is consistent across all hotels in the emirate and is applied as part of efforts to support tourism infrastructure and services. That is entirely absent in Umm Al Quwain. However, evaluating which destination might be a better choice for tourists involves looking at various factors beyond just cost. FlyDubai and Emirates provide convenient connections through Dubai International Airport and Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, enhancing accessibility. Notably, Umm Al Quwain’s lack of a tourist tax offers a cost advantage over Ras Al-Khaimah, where a tourism fee is levied, reflecting Middle East tourism’s dynamic landscape. These factors, along with visa-free access for GCC citizens, make these destinations appealing in international travel circuits.

Cultural and Natural Appeal

Umm Al Quwain, being one of the smaller emirates, offers a quiet respite from the bustling tourist hubs with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The emirate is known for its historical sites, such as the Umm Al Quwain fort, which houses the Umm Al Quwain Museum, and the Al-Dour archaeological site, considered one of the largest pre-Islamic sites on the Persian Gulf coast.

Ras Al-Khaimah, on the other hand, is renowned for its rugged landscapes and mountainous terrain, which are ideal for adventure tourism. The emirate’s cultural heritage is encapsulated in places like the National Museum of Ras Al-Khaimah, housed in a fort that once served as the residence of the ruling family. Additionally, it offers various outdoor activities, from hiking and climbing in the Hajar Mountains to water sports on its extensive beaches.

Tourism Infrastructure and Development

Ras Al-Khaimah has made significant investments in tourism infrastructure, with developments such as the Al Marjan Island, a group of four man-made islands that host luxury hotels, resorts, and leisure facilities. This emirate has been proactive in enhancing its tourism offerings, positioning itself as a luxury and adventure travel destination​.

Umm Al Quwain’s approach to tourism is more understated, focusing on cultural authenticity and natural attractions. The emirate’s lack of a tourist tax could be seen as an effort to attract more visitors by lowering the cost barrier, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious tourists. Moreover, the government’s commitment to preserving its cultural legacy is evident in the efforts to promote heritage and cultural centers throughout the emirate.

Economic Considerations

The economic factor plays a crucial role in choosing a travel destination. The absence of a tourist tax in Umm Al Quwain makes it economically appealing, particularly for tourists planning longer stays. On the other hand, Ras Al-Khaimah’s slightly higher cost of tourism is offset by its more diverse range of activities and well-developed infrastructure, which might justify the extra expense for many travelers.

Deciding whether Umm Al Quwain is a better choice than Ras Al-Khaimah for tourists depends largely on the type of experience sought. Budget travelers and those seeking a quieter, more culturally immersive visit might find Umm Al Quwain more appealing due to its cost-effectiveness and focus on heritage. Adventure seekers and those looking for a more dynamic holiday with a mix of luxury might prefer Ras Al-Khaimah, despite the slight additional cost associated with its tourist tax.

Both emirates offer unique experiences reflective of the diverse tapestry of the UAE’s tourism landscape, and the choice between them should be guided by personal interests and the kind of vacation experience one desires.

Umm Al Quwain, being one of the smaller emirates in the UAE, does not have its own major airport or home-based airlines. Most travelers looking to visit Umm Al Quwain typically use airports in nearby emirates. Here are the nearest major options:

Nearest Airports

• Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT): The closest major airport to Umm Al Quwain, offering both domestic and international flights.
• Dubai International Airport (DXB): Located in Dubai, this is one of the busiest airports globally and serves as a hub for international tourists traveling to the UAE, including Umm Al Quwain.

Popular Airlines Operating in the Region

• Emirates: Based in Dubai, Emirates operates international flights from Dubai International Airport and is known for its extensive global network.
• FlyDubai: Also based in Dubai, this airline provides budget-friendly travel options to many destinations, both regional and international.
• Air Arabia: Based in Sharjah (very close to Umm Al Quwain), Air Arabia is a low-cost carrier that flies to many destinations in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia.

Umm Al Quwain offers a mix of touristy attractions and hidden gems that provide a comprehensive experience of its unique charm and heritage. Here are some top places to visit, ranging from popular sites to more offbeat locales:

Top Touristy Places

• Umm Al Quwain Fort and Museum: This fort has been beautifully restored and transformed into a museum that showcases local history and archaeology. It’s a focal point for understanding the emirate’s past.
• Dreamland Aqua Park: One of the largest water parks in the UAE, it’s a great place for families and thrill-seekers with extensive water rides and attractions.
• Al Sinniyah Island: This island is known for its wildlife, especially the large population of socotra cormorants. It’s part of the Khor Al Beidah area, an internationally important wetland that offers bird watching opportunities.

Offbeat Places

• Falaj Al Mualla Garden Park: This local park in Umm Al Quwain is less known to tourists and offers a peaceful retreat with family-friendly facilities and green spaces.
• Abandoned Ilyushin IL 76 Aircraft: An unusual site, this abandoned Soviet-era cargo plane is located in a remote area of Umm Al Quwain and has become a quirky landmark.
• Camel Racing Track: Experience the traditional sport of camel racing at one of the local tracks—a unique cultural experience that’s not as commonly frequented by international tourists.

Umm Al Quwain, being one of the smaller emirates, has a more limited selection of destination management companies (DMCs) and hotels compared to its neighbors like Dubai and Sharjah. However, it still offers notable accommodations and services for travelers. Here’s a summary:

Destination Management Companies (DMCs) in Umm Al Quwain

Currently, specific DMCs located directly within Umm Al Quwain are not widely publicized. Typically, tourists utilize DMCs based in larger emirates like Dubai and Sharjah, which also cater to Umm Al Quwain. These companies offer tailored travel packages including tours and experiences in Umm Al Quwain, such as:

• Desert safari tours
• Cultural tours
• Bird watching and nature excursions

Hotels in Umm Al Quwain

Despite its size, Umm Al Quwain offers a range of hotels that cater to both luxury seekers and budget travelers:

• Palma Beach Resort & Spa: A luxury resort offering a blend of ancient Egyptian design and modern amenities, located on the beachfront with views of the Arabian Gulf .
• Umm Al Quwain Beach Hotel: Known for its picturesque location and family-friendly amenities, this hotel is also a winner of the 2023 Travelers’ Choice Award by TripAdvisor .
• Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain: A contemporary beachfront resort that offers a boutique hotel experience with modern facilities and direct beach access.
• Barracuda Beach Resort: Located near the famous Dreamland Aqua Park, this resort is ideal for families looking for relaxation and entertainment options close by.

These hotels and the general lack of local DMCs highlight Umm Al Quwain’s emerging status in the UAE’s tourism sector, catering to those looking for a quieter escape with authentic local experiences.

Citizens of GCC countries do not need a visa or permit to enter the UAE, including Umm Al Quwain. They simply need to present their GCC country passport or national ID card at the entry point. Additionally, citizens from several other countries can obtain a visa on arrival, either for 30 days or 90 days, depending on their nationality.

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