Ras Al Khaimah has a rich history dating back some 7,000 years. In the 13th and 14th centuries, a prosperous port arose in the area we now know as Ras Al Khaimah. Then named Julfar, it became one of the most prominent trading posts in the Arabian Gulf and was widely known for its exquisite pearls. The discovery of rare Chinese pottery in 2019 in this area points to the extent of trade that occurred in the erstwhile Julfar.

 Ras Al Khaimah has about 1,000 archaeological sites. The emirate is also home to one of the best-preserved traditional fishing villages in the Arabian Gulf, Al Jazirah Al Hamra, and the only hilltop fort still in existence in the UAE, the 18th century Dhayah Fort.

 The emirate is noted for its varied topography, from the Hajar mountains, to rolling sand dunes to 64 kms of beaches, as well as its adventure tourism attractions. It has a stable and diverse economy, with independent executive, legislative and judicial branches of government.

The city of Ras Al Khaimah is the capital of the emirate. A creek divides it into two areas: the western old town of Ras Al Khaimah and the eastern part - Al Nakheel. Other key towns are: Al Jazirah Al Hamra, Digdaga, Khatt and Masafi. Masafi shares its boundaries with the emirate of Fujairah and is known for its mineral water. Al Marjan Island, to the south of the emirate, is a group of four coral-shaped, man-made islands offering hospitality, residential and lifestyle attractions.  

 It is the fourth-largest emirate and covers an area of 1,684 sq. km which is equal to 3.16 per cent of the total area of the UAE.

The ruling family are descendants of the Al Qawasim tribe, which was a significant maritime power in the Arabian Gulf in the past. H. H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi rules Ras Al Khaimah. He assumed this position on 27 October 2010 after the demise of his father.