HISTORY OF RAS AL KHAIMAH
For a small sheikhdom, Ras Al Khaimah has played a surprisingly pivotal role in the regional history.
Tools, tombs and other items found in the area of Ras Al Khaimah indicate that humans have inhabited parts of the emirate for thousands of years.
Ras Al Khaimah was an important and thriving port before and after the arrival of Islamic religion.
A powerful and mystical town of Julfar was also constructed in this area. Its fame and importance can only be compared with that of contemporary Dubai.
Ras Al Khaimah’s history comes into sharper focus with the arrival of the Qawasim, a clan so influential that not only united a large part of the Northern Emirates, but also created one of the strongest fleets ever seen in this part of the region.
The arrival of the British influenced a political situation of the Arabian sheikdoms and introduced many changes. These changes finally led to unification of the seven emirates, which from 1971 (1972) are known as the United Arab Emirates.
For many interesting facts about Ras Al Khaimah's historical facts, click on the menu items on the left.
NOTE: In recent years, the area of foothills located between Idhin and Al Ghail in the southern part of Ras Al Khaimah has been investigated as a possible location of Palaeolithic occupation. The area is scattered with numerous chert stone tools from the so-called Old Stone Age. This research will surely lead to new facts about Ras Al Khaimah’s past.
