RAK unveils 'Ras Al-K9' programme exclusively for 'pawsome' guests

Ras Al Khaimah has introduced a pet-friendly programme - Ras Al-K9 - that'll run across 25 hotels, restaurants, pet friendly-festivals, outdoor parks and beaches in the Emirate.

This means tourists will be able to take their furry companions on wadi walks, mountain hikes, beachside excursions, desert adventures or overnight stays.

"We understand how hard it can be to leave a beloved pet at home while on holiday so we made it as easy as possible for guests to bring their pawsome family members with them," said Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

Guests are recommended to visit the open-air dog park at Ras Al Khaimah Animal Welfare Center that offers more than 7,000 square meters of landscaped areas exclusively for pets. It also features a fully-equipped Agility Park, doggy swimming pool and a café for the owners.

There's also the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival, which marks its 10th edition with an exciting weekend programme just for pet-lovers. Running from February 18-20, it will feature a range of fun-packed activities including workshops, pet adoption and yoga.

That's not all. The Emirate will also kick-off its first two-day pet-friendly festival - Paws by the Beach - on Marjan Island on February 26.

Designed to be an educational platform to raise awareness about animal welfare, the festival will also host fun competitions and entertainment for dogs, cats and pet owners.

Anyone making a trip to Ras Al Khaimah with their bestie is encouraged to check online for information on what to consider before they travel.

In the meantime, here are some helpful tips to make your pet-friendly trip a success:

• Hot sand, rocky terrain and pavement can be painful on your pet’s sensitive paws. Stay away from these hot spots or alternate between hot surfaces and cold surfaces.
• Ensure your pet stays well hydrated! Bring extra water and a bowl for them to drink out of, making sure it is available to them at all times.
• Be careful not to over-exercise your pet. If you notice excessive panting, foaming at the mouth, or bright pink gums, ensure they lay down to rest and drink water immediately.
• Make sure shade is available. Whether it be a beach umbrella or underneath a shady tree, providing your pet with a place to cool off outside of the sunshine is very important.
• Carry a fixed lead, dog harness, snacks, extra water and food, and clean up behind your pet, leaving nothing behind when hitting the trails.
• Remember to bring your dog’s vaccination book.

To find out more about pet-friendly travel in Ras Al Khaimah, please visit their dedicated Ras Al-K9 website. or check out the Emirate’s social platforms Instagram, YouTube and Facebook.