RAKpedia

Ras Al Khaimah has prepared a plan, which will declare certain areas nature reserves; such plans already exist in several other emirates. Mangroves, turtle nesting sites and wetlands are to be protected at four nature reserves with strictly limited human activities. However, at the time of writing nothing has been finalized.

 

In March 2007, RAK Environmental Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) was launched. Its aim is to be an “agency of excellence, bringing together stakeholders to promote and balance sustainable economic development with environmental protection in Ras Al Khaimah”. The results of their actions remain to be seen.

 

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SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

 

Like any industry, tourism has significant impacts on local culture, society, economy and environment. These impacts can be positive, starting cultural understanding and knowledge, bringing about preservation of natural and historical sites, and supporting local communities. However, when tourism is conducted irresponsibly, it can cause damage to local environment, affect the values of a local society, or bring unbalance to economy.

 

As a guest to the UAE, you should be aware of these impacts and act responsibly. The number one rule is to leave the area you have visited in such a condition that you would like to find it if you were to return. Therefore, do not leave garbage, if you do not want to see it next time; and do not destroy nature, if you want to see it again. This is called the Leave No Trace Philosophy.

 

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THE CODE FOR THE RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

 

Before you visit Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE, learn as much as possible about the people, habits and traditions. Take time to understand them.

 

• Get to know the rules of public conduct.
• Remember that you are a guest and therefore local people deserve your respect.
• Open your mind to other cultures and traditions. Experience and respect diversity.
• Familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations so you do not commit any act considered criminal in the UAE.
• Minimize your negative environmental impact by minimizing your use of power and water (e.g. turn off the lights when leaving a room; keep doors and windows shut when the AC is on; switch off AC units in rooms not being used; take short showers; do not leave the tap running while you are brushing your teeth; if staying at a hotel ask the house keeping staff not to change your towels and beddings every day). 
• Collect your own rubbish. Plastic bags eaten by animals are the number one cause of death among native wildlife. 
• Do not drive a car on the beach.
• Do not drive a car or wander off tracks and routes in the mountains and in desert areas.
• Do not use shrubs to make a fire. They may appear dead to you but they often are not, and they offer home and protection to various animals.
• Do not take items of historical value, even though they may appear to be just lying around, misplacing them would make it difficult for archaeologists and historians to gather accurate information. 
• Have respect for the natural environment.