Al Jazirah Al Hulaylah |
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Al Jazirath Al Hulaylah is 8km long island situated north of the town of Rams. It is separated from the mainland by a narrow lagoon and in the past it was accessible during the low tide. In the recent years, a causeway was created that allows entering the island by car. The northern part of the island is being developed as a major free trade industrial zone and not available to the public. The emerging factories are visible already from the distance.
The southern part is left untouched and is to be defined as a national nature reserve. The lagoon that separates the island from the mainland attracts migrating birds. Thus, it is one of the best bird watching sites in Ras Al Khaimah. What is more, this section of the island was occupied already in the beginning of the first millennium AD and the traces of human habitation were found up to the 18th century. For a period of time, it was even believed to be the historical town of Julfar. Although nowadays, the location of Julfar is clear, the island is still considered to be of a great historical importance. The oldest findings on the island are contemporary to those of the Tell of Kush, and come from the Sassanid period (300-700AD). While inhabitants of the Kush mainly lived in mud brick houses, only arish houses were constructed at the site of Al Jazirah Al Hulaylah. These palm fronds homes, being weak construction, disappeared with time, but theother findings discovered at the site can be seen at the RAK National Museum.
Nowadays, fishermen, camels, mangroves, a long and sandy beach, sea shells and a few modern houses create the landscape of this place.
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LOCATION: north of Rams. Drive north towards Rams along Oman Rd. After around 6km from the Rams’ traffic lights, take a U-turn. There is also a sign saying RAK Free Trade Zone. Take a first turn to the right and drive towards the entrance of the Free Zone. Pass the gate and drive straight until you will reach the beach of the island.
GPS: N25o55’ 49.45” E56o02’ 59.42”
NOTE: 4WD is necessary, but drive only on the defined tracks. |
