Rams |
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Rams is the first of the towns that occupy the narrowing coastal strip between the mountains and the Persian Gulf, north of Ras Al Khaimah. The area of Rams, having all the means to develop such as water, food and access to the sea, was inhabited for centuries or even millenniums. The history of the town itself goes back to the period of Julfar and in the 17th century it was also mentioned in Portuguese sources. The town is best known for being a landing post for the British troops who in 1819, after attacking Ras Al Khaimah, disembarked at Rams and then proceeded north to face the local population in a final battle at Dhayah.
Originally, the town was occupied by the Tanaji tribe who although small in number managed to establish its political position in Ras Al Khaimah. They were engaged in pearling, trading and fishing. Additionally, they owned date palm gardens in the nearby Dhayah area, which received the runoff water from the mountains providing ample amount for agricultural activities.
In the past, at the beginning of each summer, pearling boats set out from the coast of Rams for the oyster banks. Pearling was one of the most important occupations for the local people and it was the main source of wealth. The remains of some pearl merchants’ houses still stand along Rams’ Corniche Road and remind about the former times. In the 1930s, with the growth of cultivated pearls from Japan, the natural pearling declined. It was a difficult period for the inhabitants of the coastal towns along the Persian Gulf, including Rams. Nowadays, a modern farm that cultivates artificial pearls operates in the town. This farm was opened a few years ago and it is a result of an Emirati and Japanese cooperation.
Along Corniche Road you will also see ruins of a larger compound, which belonged to the former sheiks of Rams. Interestingly, most of the old buildings in the centre of Rams were made from wadi stone and not like in other coastal towns from coral. The proximity to the mountains made it easy to transport stone, while other towns had easier access to coral or other materials.
Although the town has changed over the years and modern houses dominate the neighbourhood, some areas managed to keep the charm and atmosphere of a small fishermen village. Palm trees planted along the roads welcome you as you enter the town, cows and goats roam around the streets freely and time seems to have different pace.
A small harbour is situated along the Rams’ creek, offering an excellent opportunity to observe activities of the fishermen and admire some old dhows, which are still anchored in the shallow waters by the coast. Near the harbour the remains of asouq, are located; in the past it was the centre of all village activities. Nowadays, most of the shops are opened along the main roads, leaving the area of the old souq abandoned.
By the main road of Rams you will also see a big watch tower. It was built in the first half of the 19th century, together with other towers in Rams, and was a part of a larger fortification structure of Ras Al Khaimah.
The people of Rams actively try to preserve their traditional customs and habits to the younger generations. They have two heritage centres situated near the creek.
Rams also has one of the nicest beaches on the UAE coast, and the mountains that are located close by add to its charm. Lagoons, separated from the sea by a sandbank that runs along Rams, and the creek area are also perfect spots for birdwatchers.
Unfortunately, these areas start to look like a rubbish dump and all sorts of debris linger on the beach and in the water. If cleaned, this place would be perfect for beach and nature lovers. The beach and lagoon can be accessed through a modern bridge that is located on the north-west side of the town, just as you continue to drive along Corniche Road. Once you cross the bridge, you will see a coast guards post, bear left and drive towards the beach having the walled post on your right side.
This peaceful town and its surroundings are about to change and become a worldwide tourism destination. Rams’ Marsa Island was selected as a site for a luxurious real estate project, called Saraya Islands, and its construction has already started. The Deputy Ruler and Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah H.H. Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi also announced, during one of his visits to Rams, plans to develop Corniche Road as recreational area. There are also proposals to comprise parts of Rams into a conservation zone together with other historical and ecologically important sites such as Dhayah, Al Jazirat Al Hulaylah and Julfar. |
LOCATION: 8km north of Ras Al Khaimah. Drive north along Oman Rd. After around 8.5km from the stoplights, at the crossroad with Al Mamourah St, you should arrive at the Rams’ traffic lights. You will see a big sport stadium on your left. Here you have to turn left to enter the town. The town’s roads have an oval rotary structure and although at first the roads network seems complicated, most of the roads lead through the town towards the beach and back to the main road (RAK–Sha’am Rd, route E11). Rams’ old houses, watchtowers and associations are located by Corniche Rd near the coast. GPS: Watch tower: N25o52’ 45.35” E56o01’30.44”
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