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Royal Families · Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
The Al Qasimi family of Ras Al Khaimah leads the UAE's northernmost emirate, and its ruling family has turned mountains, beaches and ancient sites into one of the fastest-growing luxury resort destinations in the Gulf.
At a glance
Ras Al Khaimah stands on the site of Julfar, a celebrated medieval port whose traders sailed to India and China. In the 18th century it became the seat of the Qawasim, the seafaring Al Qasimi family whose other branch leads Sharjah. The United Arab Emirates was formed on 2 December 1971 by six emirates, and Ras Al Khaimah joined on 10 February 1972. Each emirate keeps its own ruling family, and the seven Rulers together form the Federal Supreme Council. Learn more in the UAE's history and culture.
Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi led Ras Al Khaimah for more than six decades, from 1948 to 2010. He brought the emirate into the United Arab Emirates on 10 February 1972 and oversaw its first schools, roads, ports and industries, including a cement and ceramics sector that remains important today. Ras Al Khaimah also has a special place in the pearl story: cultured pearl farming has been revived here, and visitors can tour a working farm.
Sheikh Saud bin Saqr
His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has led the emirate since October 2010. His government has built a reputation for investment, tourism and natural adventure: Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest peak, has one of the world's longest ziplines, and Al Marjan Island is home to new beach resorts and the coming Wynn Al Marjan Island, the first integrated resort of its kind in the UAE; see Wynn Al Marjan Island and Ras Al Khaimah Tourism 2030.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi has been Crown Prince since 2010.
The Ruler is His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. The Crown Prince is His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah. Members of the family carry the title Sheikh or Sheikha.
Heritage to see
The only hilltop fort in the UAE, with sweeping views over palm groves to the sea.
Set in the former residence of the ruling family, with archaeology from Julfar and beyond.
The UAE's highest peak, with the Jais Flight zipline and mountain dining.
A working cultured pearl farm reached by traditional boat.
Choose from the best Ras Al Khaimah luxury resorts, see the UAE luxury vacation guide, and for investors, Ras Al Khaimah Luxury Real Estate. Compare the region's royal houses on royal families of the Middle East.
Ultra-Luxury Real Estate · Own Here
Across the Middle East, the finest resorts and the finest homes now sit side by side, and many international buyers own before they ever visit.
Ultra-Luxury Tourism & Ultra-Luxury Real Estate
Checked October 2026. Prices and dates are approximate and can change. See our standard.