If you thought Ras Al Khaimah was just about mountains, zip-lines, and those “wow-my-camera-can’t-handle-this” sunsets — think again. Since 2022, when Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority proudly launched the Ras-Al-K9 program, the emirate has been on a mission to prove it’s not just people who deserve luxury and adventure here — it’s pets too.
That’s right, while the rest of the UAE was still figuring out how to make room for four-legged family members, RAK went all in: dedicated pet beaches, a sprawling dog park, cafés that actually welcome wagging tails, and entire communities designed with pet-friendly living in mind.
This guide is your one-stop directory to pet parent life in Ras Al Khaimah — whether you’re a resident looking for your daily dog-walk routine, or a tourist planning a “pawcation.” We’ll cover it all: from beaches and corniches where zoomies are welcome, to vets, daycare, and staycations, all the way down to the not-so-pet-friendly spots (because nothing’s worse than showing up with your pup and getting the dreaded headshake).
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: In RAK, “pet-friendly” doesn’t just mean allowed. It often means celebrated. So pack that water bowl, grab the leash, and get ready — because your pet’s social calendar is about to get as busy as yours.
Why Ras Al Khaimah is the UAE’s Pet-Friendly Pioneer
Here’s the secret sauce: RAK isn’t just pet-tolerant, it’s pet-proud. Thanks to the official Ras Al-K9 program (yes, that’s the actual name — cute, right?), the emirate has committed to being the destination for pet lovers.
That means:
- Over 25 hotels, restaurants, and venues with official pet-friendly approval.
- Community events like “Paws by the Beach” festival.
- Adoption drives like “Pause for Paws” led by RAK Animal Welfare Centre (RAKAWC).
☎️ Important Numbers for Pet Parents in RAK (tap to expand)
Pet Emergency & Support Contacts
Verified and click-to-call. Save them in your phone under “Pet Emergency – RAK”.
🐾 Animal Welfare & Lost/Found
-
RAKAWC – Ras Al Khaimah Animal Welfare Centre
Landline: +971 7 243 3184 · Mobile: +971 56 357 6908
Microchipping, registration, lost pets, dog park access.
🏛️ Government & Permits
-
RAK Municipality – Customer Service / Public Health
+971 7 246 6666
Registration, municipal pet rules, complaints. -
MOCCAE – Ministry of Climate Change & Environment (Call Center)
800 3050
Import/export permits, relocation, veterinary queries.
🏥 Vets & 24/7 Emergencies
-
Vets24 (24/7 Emergency)
Landline: +971 7 243 6600 · Emergency Mobile: +971 50 487 6041 24/7
Al Refaa, E11 — surgery, emergencies, house-calls by arrangement. -
RAK Veterinary Center (Medical Veterinary Clinic)
Landline: +971 7 235 1781 · Mobile: +971 56 648 2333
General practice & routine care. -
Corniche Veterinary Clinic
Landline: +971 7 227 5600 · Mobile: +971 50 998 2333
Late hours most days; grooming + vet services. -
Al Amal Veterinary Clinic
Landline: +971 7 501 2973 · Emergencies: +971 56 107 1118
Routine care; after-hours emergency line available.
🚓 General Emergencies (UAE-wide)
WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Create a phone contact group “Pet Emergency – RAK” and add these numbers. In a panic, you’ll find them faster.
Rules, Regs & Responsible Pet Parenting in RAK
Before we get to the fun stuff, here’s the quick-and-dirty checklist every pet parent in Ras Al Khaimah needs to know:
- Microchip & Register – All pets must be microchipped and registered with the municipality.
- Vaccinations Up to Date – Rabies is non-negotiable. Carry proof.
- Leash & Clean-Up – No off-leash strolls in public spaces (except RAKAWC Dog Park) and fines apply if you “forget” the poop bag.
- Prohibited Breeds – Certain breeds are restricted in the UAE (Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Mastiffs, etc.).
- Fines Exist – Walking without a leash? AED 5,000. Not cleaning up? AED 200. Ouch.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Think of it this way — if your pet is healthy, leashed, and you’re a responsible human, you’ll have zero issues in RAK.
👉 Want the full breakdown? We’ve got a detailed guide to Rules, Regs & Responsible Pet Parenting in RAK.
🚫 Where Pets Aren’t Allowed in RAK (click to expand)
We love adventures with our floofs — but some Ras Al Khaimah attractions are strictly no-pets. Here’s the quick, no-awkward-gate-moment guide:
🏛️ Museums & Heritage
- RAK National Museum (Al Hisn Fort) No Pets — Indoor heritage = no pets (service animals may be allowed).
- Dhayah Fort Restricted — Hill/stair climb on leash is fine, but inside heritage area is no-pets.
- Jazirat Al Hamra Heritage Village Use Caution — Outdoor ruins, but not officially pet-approved. Leash only, avoid event days.
⛰️ Jebel Jais Adventure Hubs
- Zipline, Sledder, Cafés No Pets — Activity hubs & decks are pet-free. Trails & Viewing Deck Park outside = fine on leash.
🛍️ Malls
- Manar Mall, Al Hamra Mall, RAK Mall, Grove No Pets — Pets not allowed inside malls (except service animals or pet stores).
🏖️ Resort Beaches
- Rixos, InterContinental, Hilton, Pullman, Waldorf, Anantara No Pets — Private beaches are off-limits. Even “pet-friendly” hotels restrict dogs to specific outdoor zones.
🌳 Municipal Parks
- Saqr Park & most family parks Generally No Dogs — Unless signage says otherwise, assume no pets. Official alternative: RAKAWC Dog Park.
🦁 RAK Zoo
- No Pets — Personal pets not admitted for welfare & safety reasons.
Pet-Friendly Communities in RAK (Quick Look)
Ras Al Khaimah isn’t just about vacation stays — it’s home for thousands of pet parents too. From waterfront apartments to garden villas, here are the big-name communities where furry friends are part of the lifestyle:
- Al Hamra Village – villas, golf homes, marina apartments with plenty of walk space.
- Mina Al Arab – wetlands, cafés, and long boardwalks for daily leash walks.
- Al Marjan Island – Bab Al Bahr & Pacific towers with direct corniche access.
- Julphar Towers – twin high-rises right on Al Qasimi Corniche.
- Yasmin Village – gated cluster with lakeside paths.
- Al Dhait & Al Refaa – villa communities perfect for large breeds and private gardens.
- Central Towers (City, Union, RAK Tower) – budget high-rises, urban vibe.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Always check building rules before moving in — deposits, pet size limits, or even “use the service lift” clauses vary by community.
👉 Want the full breakdown (policies, vibes, checklists)? We’ve got a separate in-depth guide to Pet-Friendly Living in RAK (link).
Where to Walk Your Dog Daily in RAK
🐾 Pet-Friendly Corniches & Promenades in RAK (click to open)
Pet-Friendly Corniches & Promenades
All listed areas welcome pets on-leash. Great for daily exercise or sunset strolls—each with their own vibe.
| Location | Vibe | Best Time | Nearby Amenities | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Qasimi Corniche | Wide waterfront path, smooth and shaded | Sunset | Cafés & benches | Packed, but social + scenic. |
| Al Marjan Corniche | Clean beachfront boulevard | Morning & Evening | Cafés near Bab Al Bahr | Perfect for joggers and sunset laps. |
| Old Corniche (Al Seer) | Rustic seafront, local charm | Evening | Streetside stalls/cafés | Atmospheric; watch for street cats. |
| Al Rams Corniche | Quiet, fishing-village style walk | Late Afternoon | Limited cafés | Very peaceful—great when you need calm. |
| Al Mairid Corniche | Beachside stroll near resorts | Morning & Evening | Kiosks; mixed parking | Avoid private resort areas—pet rules apply there. |
| Nakheel / Creekside Promenade | Cozy creekside loops | Morning/Evening | Nearby shops/malls | Ideal for quick “before work” walks. |
Not every day is a “wadis and mountains” day. Sometimes you just need a quick loop, a safe stretch, or a breezy evening stroll. Luckily, RAK has a few go-to walking spots that local pet parents swear by.
Al Qasimi Corniche
- The OG dog-walking strip. Wide pavements, sea breeze, and plenty of benches for “sniff stops.”
- Perfect for daily cardio (yours and your pup’s).
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Best at sunset when the creek glows gold — and yes, other pet parents will be out too.
Al Marjan Island Corniche
- Long, clean pathways with open views of the Gulf.
- Great for leash walks and jogs, with rest spots along the way.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Start near Bab Al Bahr or Pacific towers and finish at a café terrace — two birds, one stone.
Old Corniche (Al Seer side)
- Rustic and laid-back, popular with locals for breezy evening strolls.
- Good for social dogs who don’t mind a bit of city hustle.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Street cats are part of the neighborhood charm — keep pups leashed if they’re the “chase first, think later” type.
Other Corniches & Promenades in RAK
- Al Rams Corniche 🌊
Up north in the fishing village of Al Rams, you’ll find a more local-style corniche. Great for quiet leash walks by the water, with mountain views in the background.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Best for chill strolls, not jogs — it’s slower paced and very community-driven. - Al Mairid Corniche (near Rixos stretch) 🏖️
Runs along the coast near the old Hilton/Rixos Al Mairid area. Popular with residents for evening walks, but note: resort beachfront is private/no-pets — stick to the public-side paths.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Good for a combined beach + corniche loop if you’re staying nearby. - Al Nakheel / Creekside Promenades 🌴
Smaller stretches along the creekside near Julphar Towers and City Tower. They’re not as long as Qasimi or Marjan, but great for short daily loops if you live in the area.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Perfect “before work” potty walks for apartment dwellers.
Neighborhood Loops
- Communities like Al Hamra, Mina Al Arab, Yasmin Village, and Julphar Towers offer internal paths and shaded streets.
- Great for quick morning potty breaks or short exercise.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Always carry a poop bag — community guards and neighbors do notice.
Public Beaches for Pets in RAK
🏖️ Public Beaches for Pets in RAK — Official vs Caveat (click to expand)
Public Beaches for Pets in Ras Al Khaimah
Quick reality check: only two beaches are officially pet-friendly; others are community-used with caveats. Keep it **leashed**, clean, and respectful.
| Beach | Status | Rules | Best Time | Parking / Facilities | WOW-RAK Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Jazeerah Beach | Official | Leash recommended • Bring shade & water | Sunrise / Sunset | Open parking • Minimal facilities | Wide open space for zoomies; sand gets hot by midday. |
| Flamingo Beach | Official | Leash required • Family area | Evenings • Cooler months | Street/lot parking • Food kiosks nearby | Use a long leash for more freedom while staying rule-compliant. |
| Al Dahan Beach | Caveat | Leashed only • Respect anglers/BBQ areas | Morning / Sunset | Roadside parking • No facilities | Local favourite; keep it discreet and super tidy. |
| Al Rams Beach | Caveat | Leashed only • Community-first vibe | Late afternoon / Evening | Limited parking • Few amenities | Quiet fishing village—be extra respectful of residents. |
| Al Medfeq (near Marjan) | Caveat | Leashed only • Informal sandy stretch | Morning / Evening | Roadside parking • No facilities | Used by nearby residents; not on the official list. |
| Al Mairid / Al Maareedh Beach | Caveat | Leashed only • Avoid private resort zones | Morning / Evening | Mixed parking • Kiosks nearby | Adjacent to resort frontage (no pets). Stick to public sand only. |
Rule of paw: Ropes, lifeguard huts, or hotel signage = private zone → no pets. Public, unsigned sand = okay with leash and excellent etiquette.
RAK has some of the best coastlines in the UAE, and thanks to the Ras-Al-K9 program (launched in 2022), a couple of beaches are now proudly and officially pet-friendly. But not every sandy stretch is created equal — some are “community-used” rather than officially approved. Here’s the lowdown:
Official Pet-Friendly Beaches
Al Jazeerah Beach
- Wide, open stretch where dogs can run and swim freely.
- No fancy facilities, so bring your own shade and water.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Sunrise and sunset are best — cooler sand and Insta-worthy skies.
Flamingo Beach
- Designated as pet-friendly, but leash required at all times.
- Family-friendly spot, so expect kids, BBQs, and crowds.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: A long leash gives your pup more freedom while keeping you rule-compliant.
⚠️ Caveat Beaches (Use, But With Care)
These beaches are not officially designated for pets, but locals do use them. If you go, keep dogs on a leash, be discreet, and always clean up.
- Al Dahan Beach – Popular with locals for fishing/BBQs. Fine for a stroll, but not on the Ras-Al-K9 list.
- Al Rams Beach – In the northern fishing village. Quiet and scenic, but very community-driven — respect local sensitivities.
- Al Medfeq Beach (near Marjan) – Informal sandy stretch used by nearby residents. Not official.
- Al Mairid Beach – Public stretch exists, but resort zones (Rixos/old Hilton) are private and no pets allowed. Expect mixed enforcement.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: If you see ropes, lifeguard huts, or hotel signage — assume no pets. Stick to the open, public sand.
Quick Rule of Paw
- Official = Jazeerah & Flamingo.
- Caveat = Dahan, Rams, Medfeq, Mairid.
- When in doubt → leash up, clean up, and keep it respectful.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Pack a travel water bowl. Because no, seawater is not a drink.
Outdoor Adventures for Pets in Ras Al Khaimah
🌄 Outdoor Adventures With Your Pet — Jebel Jais, Wadis & Camps (click to expand)
Outdoor Adventures for Pets in Ras Al Khaimah
From breezy mountain trails to rocky wadis and glamping by the sea — pick your pace. Leash is recommended everywhere (mandatory in busy areas), and summer outings = sunrise/sunset only.
| Location | Type | Difficulty | Pet Vibe & Rules | Best Season / Time | Parking / Facilities | WOW-RAK Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jebel Jais Hiking Trails | Mountain hike | Moderate | Leash • Booties recommended | Oct–Apr • Early / Late | Marked lots • Basic facilities at hubs | Cooler air; watch for rocky sections & curious goats. |
| Viewing Deck Park (Jais) | Scenic lookout | Easy | Leash • Picnic-friendly | Oct–Apr • Any time (cooler hours best) | Ample parking • View platforms | No-sweat mountain vibes; great for seniors & small pups. |
| Wadi Shawka | Wadi trek | Easy–Moderate | Leash • Pools seasonal | Winter • Morning | Roadside parking • No shade facilities | Beginner-friendly; double your water plan. |
| Wadi Shah | Rugged wadi | Moderate | Leash • Sure-footed dogs | Winter • Early / Late | Limited parking • No amenities | Quieter than Shawka; rocky scrambles in places. |
| Wadi Bih | Remote wadi | Hard | Leash • Experienced hikers only | Winter • Early | Remote access • No services | Challenging terrain; navigation & paw care are crucial. |
| Wadi Ghalila (“Stairway to Heaven”) | Steep mountain route | Very Hard | Leash • Only for elite, conditioned dogs | Winter • Dawn start | Minimal parking • No water | Serious ascent; attempt only with expert prep & gear. |
| Longbeach Campground | Beach glamping | Easy | Dog-friendly tents • Check current pet terms | Oct–Apr • Evening campfires | On-site parking • Shared amenities | Great first-time camp with pets; book pet-friendly tents. |
| Banan Beach | Beach resort/cabins | Easy | Dog-positive culture • Confirm policy on day | Oct–Apr • Sunset | On-site parking • F&B | Casual beachfront hangouts; keep dogs controlled around crowds. |
| Desert Inn Camp | Desert camp | Easy | Leash around camp • Quiet hours | Nov–Mar • Night sky | Camp parking • Basic facilities | Bedouin vibes; paws may pick up burrs—check and brush. |
Safety mini-checklist: 2× water, collapsible bowl, paw balm/booties, long leash, first-aid wipes, and a towel. Summer = sunrise only.
Your four-legged buddy can tag along (on a leash, of course). From breezy mountain hikes to rocky wadis and desert camp nights, this is where tails wag the hardest.
Jebel Jais Hikes & Lookouts
- Hiking Trails – The crown jewel. Trails range from easy loops to moderate climbs. Great cardio for both human and hound.
- Viewing Deck Park – Don’t feel like sweating it out? Park your car, grab your leash, and enjoy epic mountain views without the hike.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Invest in paw booties or balm — the rocky terrain can be rough on sensitive paws.
Wadi Wanderings
RAK’s wadis are like Disneyland for dogs: natural scents, splashing pools (in season), and endless rocks to climb.
- Wadi Shawka – Beginner-friendly, with shallow pools after rain.
- Wadi Shah – Rugged, less crowded.
- Wadi Bih – Remote and challenging — only for experienced hikers and dogs.
- Wadi Ghalila (“Stairway to Heaven”) – Legendary climb, but not for the faint-hearted (or unfit paws).
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Double your water supply. If you think you’ve packed enough, pack more.
Camps & Glamping With Pets
Sometimes adventure = marshmallows, BBQ, and your pup snoring by the fire.
- Longbeach Campground – Dog-friendly tents and beachfront vibe.
- Banan Beach – Casual seaside cabins where pets often mingle as freely as the guests.
- Desert Inn Camp – Bedouin-style desert setting. Watch out for burrs in the sand.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Book early in winter season — “pawcation” slots sell out fast.
Quick Rule of Paw
- Always leash up — even if the trail looks empty.
- Pack a collapsible bowl, paw balm, first-aid wipes, and towel.
- Best time: sunrise or sunset in cooler months (Oct–Apr).
- Summer hikes? Just no. Your dog’s paws will thank you.
🐾 Outdoor Adventures With Your Pet in Ras Al Khaimah
| Location | Type | Pet Vibe | Difficulty | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jebel Jais Trails | Mountain hike | Active dogs on leash | Moderate | Oct–Apr |
| Wadi Shawka | Wadi trek | Great for all dogs | Easy–Moderate | Winter |
| Wadi Bih | Rugged wadi | Experienced hiking dogs only | Hard | Winter |
| Al Marjan Corniche | Seaside stroll | Casual, family-friendly | Easy | Sunrise/Sunset |
| Al Qasimi Corniche | Modern promenade | Joggers + walkers | Easy | Evenings |
| RAK Old Corniche | Rustic promenade | Relaxed strolls, lots to sniff | Easy | Evenings |
| Viewing Deck Park | Scenic lookout | All pets welcome | Easy | Cooler months |
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Best time is sunrise or sunset. Midday walks? Unless your dog is a camel, skip it.
Pet-Friendly Hotels & Resorts in RAK
🏨 Pet-Friendly Hotels & Staycations in RAK (click to expand)
Hotels & Staycations That Welcome Pets
Fees, weight limits and room types can change — always **confirm directly** when you book. Outdoor public resort beaches are typically no-pets; use designated public beaches for sand & swim.
| Hotel / Resort | Area | Pet Policy Snapshot | Indicative Fees | Size / Limits | WOW-RAK Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island | Al Marjan Island | Designated pet rooms • Terrace/outdoor F&B zones | Typical: nightly fee + refundable deposit | Often up to ~35 kg (check) | Good structure for “pawcations”; stick to public pet beaches for swims. |
| Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort | Al Hamra | Clearly published pet program • Designated outdoor areas | First-night surcharge + nightly/cleaning fees (confirm) | Any size stated historically; verify now | Premium option; pet kit often includes bowls—bring your own just in case. |
| Al Hamra Residence | Al Hamra | Pet-friendly room types • Vaccination proof required | First-night fee + smaller nightly fee (confirm) | Commonly 2 dogs up to ~20 kg | Residence layout suits longer stays; no unattended pets. |
| Al Hamra Village Hotel | Al Hamra | Allows pets with deposit • Public areas restricted | Nightly fee + refundable deposit | Typically 1 pet (size varies) | Budget-friendly; confirm exact room blocks that allow pets. |
| Jannah Hotel Apartments & Villas | Al Hamra vicinity | Pet add-on program • Notify front desk if unattended | Per-night fee + refundable deposit | Policy varies by unit | Apartment/villa layouts = easier potty routines. |
| Longbeach Campground | Coastal (Al Jazirah Al Hamra side) | Dog-friendly tents • Shared outdoor areas | Often low/no fee; confirm | Usually 1–2 dogs; size flexible | Great for first-time “camp with dog”; respect quiet hours. |
| Banan Beach | Coastal (RAK) | Pet-positive culture • Outdoor zones | Policy can be seasonal; confirm | Typically flexible; check per unit | Casual beachfront; keep dogs controlled around crowds. |
| Desert Inn Camp / RAK Glamping | Desert / Various | Leashed in camp • Pet-ok tents/cabins | Usually minimal; confirm | By camp & tent type | Watch for burrs; bring a brush and paw balm. |
| Rixos Al Mairid Check policy | Al Mairid | Resort beachfront is private; pet stance reported as strict | — | — | Policy appears inconsistent post-rebrand; verify directly before planning. |
| Anantara Mina Al Arab Generally no pets | Mina Al Arab | Resort policy typically prohibits pets | — | — | List here to avoid confusion; use public beaches/corniches for walks. |
Booking tip: Ask for the hotel’s **written pet policy** (fees, weight limits, room types, outdoor access). Screenshot your confirmation for check-in.
Why should humans have all the fun of a staycation? In RAK, your pup (or kitty) can check in too — tail wags included. From luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly residences and even glamping under the stars, here’s the ultimate guide to where your pet is not just allowed, but actually welcomed.
Luxury Resorts That Roll Out the Red Carpet
- Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island
One of the few resorts with a clear “pawcation” program. Expect pet-friendly rooms, outdoor dining terraces, and structured policies.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: They often set a weight limit (~35kg), so check before you pack your Saint Bernard’s suitcase. - Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort
Published pet policies, pet fees, and sometimes little extras like bowls. This is as close as RAK gets to Parisian chic — for both you and your pup.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Fees can look steep (think first-night surcharge + cleaning), so factor that into your budget.
Residences & Serviced Hotels (Great for Longer Stays)
- Al Hamra Residence
Designated pet-friendly rooms, usually up to two dogs (~20kg each). Vaccination proof required.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Best for expat families moving with pets — kitchenettes + longer stay vibes. - Al Hamra Village Hotel
More budget-friendly, with per-night fees and a refundable deposit. Pets can’t be left unattended.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Handy if you want to test “pet-inclusive” holidays without breaking the bank. - Jannah Hotel Apartments & Villas
Apartment layouts = easier potty breaks. Charges per night + deposit, and you’ll need to inform the front desk if you step out without your pet.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Villas are gold for bigger dogs that need space.
Glamping & Quirky Stays
- Longbeach Campground
Dog-friendly tents right by the beach. No fancy frills, but lots of space to run.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Bring your own dog bed — the tents are basic. - Banan Beach
Beach cabins and chill vibes, often with no extra pet fee. Think more surf-shack than 5-star.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Gets busy on weekends — keep your pup leashed and calm around crowds. - Desert Inn Camp / RAK Glamping
Bedouin-style camping in the dunes. Leashed pups welcome, but watch for burrs in the sand.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Carry a paw brush and extra water — desert life gets messy fast.
Pet-Friendly Dining & Cafés in Ras Al Khaimah
🍴 Pet-Friendly Dining & Cafés in RAK (South → North, click to expand)
Pet-Friendly Dining & Cafés in Ras Al Khaimah
From **Al Marjan Island** all the way up to **Jebel Jais**, here’s where you and your furry sidekick can grab a bite or sip in style. All spots are currently active and verified as pet-friendly outdoors (on-leash).
| Venue | Area | Pet Policy | Best For | WOW-RAK Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boons Brasserie & Bar | Al Marjan Island | Outdoor terrace • Dogs under ~35kg; dog menu | Upscale dining & sundowners | One of the few with a pup menu — Insta-worthy sundown spot. |
| The Bay | Al Hamra Coast | Terrace + some indoor • On-leash | Casual dining with shisha | Great for laid-back evenings; shade is limited midday. |
| Sushi & Bento | Al Hamra Village | Outdoor terrace | Sushi, noodles, quick bites | Perfect for a light lunch with your pup at your side. |
| The Coffee Club | Al Hamra | Outdoor terrace • Dog menu at some branches | Breakfasts & casual brunch | One of the most consistent pet-friendly chains in the UAE. |
| Caffè Nero | Al Hamra Mall | Outdoor tables | Coffee stop while shopping | Easy pit-stop for residents on errands. |
| Thunder Road Pizza & Grill | Al Riffa (near Al Hamra) | Outdoor terrace • On-leash | Pizzas, casual family meals | Spacious, good for families + furry friends. |
| North Café | Al Hamra / Al Dhait | Outdoor seating | Neighborhood coffee breaks | Quiet mornings = perfect puppy training ground. |
| E18 Coffee | Al Shaagi | Outdoor tables | Trendy coffee & pastries | Stylish spot, dog-friendly patio. |
| Sahara Café | Mina Al Arab | Outdoor seating • Water bowls often provided | Family-friendly casual café | Good for evening lagoon stroll add-ons. |
| Decaf Dessert & Coffee Lab | Flamingo Beach area | Outdoor seating | Desserts + coffee culture | Pet-friendly terrace — sweet tooth + leash combo. |
| La Burrata | Al Riffa | Outdoor tables | Italian comfort dining | Good stop for pizza/pasta with furry company. |
| Ruzo | Flamingo Beach | Outdoor terrace • On-leash | Japanese fusion with beach vibe | Combine with Flamingo Beach sunset stroll (leash required). |
| 1484 by Puro | Jebel Jais | Outdoor terrace • On-leash | Destination dining, mountain views | Cool-season only; book terrace tables in advance. |
Quick reminder: All listed venues are **active as of 2025**. Closed/uncertain ones (Marina Muse, Clubhouse, Bread & Barrel, Tucano Coffee) are intentionally left out.
Forget sneaking scraps under the table — in RAK, your furry BFF can brunch right with you. From beachside bistros to mountain-top cafés, here’s the ultimate south-to-north guide to pet-friendly dining in the emirate.
Al Marjan Island & Al Hamra (South)
- Boons Brasserie & Bar (Al Marjan)
Chic brasserie with outdoor terrace. Dogs under ~35kg allowed, and they even have a dog menu and water bowls.
💡 WOW-RAK Tip: Perfect for sundowners with your pup snoozing at your feet. - The Bay (Al Hamra coast)
Terrace seating and even indoor dog-friendly zones.
💡 WOW-RAK Tip: Ask for a shaded corner on hot days. - Sushi & Bento (Al Hamra Village)
Pets welcome on the outdoor terrace.
💡 WOW-RAK Tip: Quick sushi date? Bring your four-legged plus one. - The Coffee Club (Al Hamra)
Terrace tables are pet-friendly; some branches even have a doggie menu.
💡 WOW-RAK Tip: Weekend brunches with a pup by your side hit different. - Caffè Nero (Al Hamra Mall)
Outdoor tables = yes for pets.
💡 WOW-RAK Tip: Handy mid-shop coffee break with your floof. - Thunder Road Pizza & Grill (Al Riffa, near Al Hamra)
Casual, spacious, and dog-friendly outdoors.
💡 WOW-RAK Tip: Best for groups with kids + pups in tow.
Community Cafés & Hidden Gems
- North Café (Al Hamra area / Al Dhait)
Relaxed, neighborhood café that happily welcomes dogs outside. - E18 Coffee (Al Shaagi)
Trendy coffee stop with pet-friendly outdoor seating. - Sahara Café (Mina Al Arab)
Cozy family café; water bowls often provided. - Decaf Dessert & Coffee Lab (Flamingo Beach area)
Sweet treats and caffeine fixes, pet-friendly terrace. - La Burrata (Al Riffa)
Italian spot with relaxed pet policy on outdoor tables.
💡 WOW-RAK Tip: These spots are low-key perfect for weekday laptop-and-latte sessions with your dog dozing under the table.
Flamingo Beach
- Ruzo
Japanese fusion vibes with a terrace that welcomes dogs.
💡 WOW-RAK Tip: Combine it with a leashed sunset stroll along Flamingo Beach (officially leash-only).
Up in the Mountains
- 1484 by Puro (Jebel Jais)
The highest restaurant in the UAE — and yes, your pup can join you outdoors with a booking.
💡 WOW-RAK Tip: Only go in cooler months; your dog will thank you.
⚠️ Closed Legends: Marina Muse, Bread & Barrel, Clubhouse, and Tucano Coffee are gone. RIP to those dog-friendly hangouts.
Services Every Pet Parent Needs
Because sometimes you need more than Instagram shots.
- Vets: RAKAWC Vet Clinic, RAK Veterinary Centre.
- Groomers & Daycare: Pet Oasis, smaller local sitters.
- Pet Shops: Petzone, Pet Corner, plus online delivery (Noon, Amazon).
Culture & History With Pets
Yes, pets can get cultured too.
- Dhayah Fort – Hilltop views + workout (stairs for you, sniffs for them).
- Al Jazeera Al Hamra Village – Abandoned pearl fishing village; spooky but safe for pets.
- Al Qawasim Corniche – Perfect mix of cafés, culture, and sea breeze.
Responsible Pet Travel in RAK
- Leashes always in public spaces.
- Carry water + poop bags (yes, everyone’s watching).
- Respect beach rules (Flamingo = leash, Jazeerah = relaxed).
- Check hotel pet policies directly before booking — they change faster than a Labrador spotting food.
Vets, Groomers, Supplies & Daycare in RAK
Because living the pet life isn’t just about beaches and brunch — sometimes it’s about vaccinations, nail trims, or grabbing kibble before you run out. Luckily, RAK has a solid pet services scene.
Where to Find Pet Care, Grooming & Supplies in RAK
Vets & Clinics
- RAK Animal Welfare Centre (RAKAWC) – the big one; offers vet care, vaccinations, and microchipping. Also runs the official dog park.
- RAK Vet Clinic (Khuzam area) – good for everyday checkups, shots, and emergency care.
- Smaller community vets – scattered across Al Dhait, Nakheel and Mina Al Arab — great for routine consults.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Always keep digital copies of your pet’s vaccination records — most hotels and communities will ask.
Groomers
- Pet Spa & Grooming outlets in Al Hamra Mall and Al Naeem Mall.
- Mobile groomers (yes, they’ll come to your villa or apartment — lifesaver for nervous pets).
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Book mobile grooming during cooler hours — van A/C struggles in peak summer.
Pet Supplies
- Pet Zone (Al Hamra Mall) – the big-box store with everything from food to toys.
- Smaller shops in Nakheel & Khuzam – handy for quick runs.
- Carrefour / Spinneys – stock mainstream brands if you’re in a pinch.
Daycare & Boarding
- RAKAWC Boarding Kennels – secure, managed, and attached to the Welfare Centre.
- Private sitters & daycares – often advertised in local expat FB groups (always vet them before trusting).
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: For summer holidays, book boarding at least 2 months ahead — spaces fill fast with UAE staycationers flying out.
Final Thoughts
Ras Al Khaimah isn’t just pet-friendly — it’s pet fabulous. From 5-star hotels to wadis straight out of a nature doc, your furry friend is welcome at every step.
So grab the leash, pack the treats, and let’s make RAK the UAE’s most tail-waggingly awesome destination.
💡 WOW-RAK Expert Tip: Tag your adventures with #WOWRAKPets — the best snaps will get featured on WOW-RAK!
