Best Dog-Friendly Parks, Beaches and Cafes in Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is one of the most dog-friendly emirates in the UAE, making it an excellent choice for dog owners who want their pets to enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle. Unlike many places where dogs are restricted from public areas, RAK offers a welcoming environment with dog-friendly beaches, open parks, mountain trails, waterfront walks, and dedicated pet facilities.

Here, dogs are not just allowed, they are genuinely accommodated. Whether it’s running freely in open spaces, swimming in the sea, exploring nature trails, or relaxing beside their owners at outdoor cafés, Ras Al Khaimah provides dogs with the freedom, exercise, and stimulation they need to stay healthy and happy.

Specialized Dog Parks and Facilities

1. RAK Animal Welfare Centre

• Rating: 4.6 ⭐ (1K reviews)
  
• Type: Animal shelter
  
• Location: JQXG+VV4 – Industrial Area, Landfill Road
  
• What it offers:
  This is one of the most prominent animal shelters in Ras Al Khaimah. It has the largest outdoor dog park in the UAE, spanning over 7,000 square meters of landscaped space. Dogs can freely run off-leash, which is great for socialization and exercise.
  
  • Features a doggy swimming pool for fun and cooling off in the hot UAE weather.
    
  • Agility park where dogs can enjoy obstacle courses to stimulate both mind and body.
    
• Why it’s special: This centre not only provides shelter and care for animals but also focuses on recreation, training, and social activities for dogs. Perfect for dog owners who want their pets to be active and social.
  
  

2. Campground (Al Duhaisa)

• Rating: 4.8 ⭐ (152 reviews)
  
• Type: Campground
  
• Location: Al Duhaisa – Ras Al Khaimah
  
• What it offers: A 100% dog-friendly campground, which is very rare. Dogs can enjoy their own swimming pool, and owners are allowed to join them, making it a fun bonding experience.
  
• Why it’s special: This is ideal for owners who want a camping experience without leaving their dogs behind. The dedicated swimming pool ensures dogs have a safe water area to play in.
  
  

Dog-Friendly Beaches

Ras Al Khaimah offers several dog-friendly beaches, perfect for pet owners who want to spend quality time outdoors with their dogs. These beaches provide open spaces, water access, and social opportunities for dogs, while allowing owners to relax and enjoy the scenery.

1. Al Hamra Beach

• Rating: 4.4 ⭐ (88 reviews)
  
• Location: Al Nakheel – Ras Al Khaimah
  
• What to expect: Al Hamra Beach is a casual, popular spot for locals and residents. Dogs can swim in the sea and play on the sand alongside their owners. This beach is perfect for dogs that love water and owners looking for a laid-back beach day.
  
• Why it’s good for dogs: Open sandy area for running, swimming, and socializing with other dogs.
  

2. Al Jazeerah Beach

• Rating: 4.3 ⭐ (255 reviews)
  
• Location: Al Jazeera Al Hamra-Qaryat Al Hamra
  
• What to expect: Situated near the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, this beach is quieter and more peaceful than the busier beaches. Dogs can roam freely in a calm environment.
  
• Why it’s good for dogs: Ideal for dogs who prefer less crowded spaces to explore and exercise safely. Also great for owners who want a relaxing day in a scenic, tranquil environment.
  

3. Flamingo Beach

• Rating: 4.4 ⭐ (1.9K reviews)
  
• Location: Al Nadiya – Ras Al Khaimah
  
• What to expect: This is a public beach where dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash. It’s popular among dog owners who enjoy walking their pets along the shoreline.
  
• Why it’s good for dogs: Leashed dogs can socialize safely with other pets, get exercise, and enjoy the beach environment without risking safety.

Restaurants and Cafes

Many establishments in RAK offer pet-friendly outdoor seating: 

• Thunder Road Italian Restaurant: A popular spot that allows dogs and is noted for its authentic Italian cuisine.
• Decaf Dessert & Coffee Lab: A cafe located on Flamingo Beach that overlooks the sea and is known to be dog-friendly.
• Socials Tourist Restaurant: An establishment serving European and Indian cuisine that explicitly welcomes pets.
• Marina Muse: Located at the Al Hamra Yacht Clubhouse, this restaurant offers all-day dining with a view of the marina and allows pets.
• Other Notable Spots: Additional dog-friendly eateries include Club House Al Hamra, Tucano Coffee RAK, Bread and Barrell, and Ruzo. 

Mountain and Nature Parks

Ras Al Khaimah is home to several stunning mountain and nature parks, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and outdoor spaces that welcome dogs. These parks are ideal for both exercise and adventure for pets and their owners.

1. Viewing Deck Park Jebel Jais

• Rating: 4.7 ⭐ (2.4K reviews)
  
• Type: Tourist attraction
  
• Location: Wadi Shehah – Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
  
• What to expect: This park is located near the summit of the UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Jais, and offers panoramic views of the Hajar Mountains.
  
  • Features a playground and food trucks, making it a popular spot for families.
    
  • Dogs are welcome, so owners can enjoy a scenic walk or picnic with their pets.
    
  • Entry fee: Approximately AED 5 per person.
    
• Why it’s special: Combines mountain adventure with pet-friendly outdoor spaces, perfect for a day trip or hike.
  
  

2. Shawkah Dam Park

• Rating: 4.4 ⭐ (644 reviews)
  
• Type: Park
  
• Location: South Ras Al Khaimah
  
• What to expect: A scenic nature area that is ideal for hiking, picnics, and outdoor activities.
  
  • Recognized as pet-welcoming, it provides facilities such as BBQ pits, restrooms, and play areas.
    
• Why it’s special: Great for active families and dog owners who want a structured outdoor experience with amenities.
  

3. Wadi Shawka

• Rating: 4.5 ⭐ (1.5K reviews)
  
• Type: Hiking area
  
• Location: 423W+MJV – Dam
  
• What to expect: Known as a “powerful valley”, Wadi Shawka is not a traditional gated park, but it’s one of the most recommended outdoor spots for dogs.
  
  • Dogs can explore trails and seasonal riverbeds, giving them a sense of adventure.
    
• Why it’s special: Perfect for dogs that enjoy natural, rugged environments and for owners who want a more adventurous outdoor experience.
  
  

Waterfront Parks and Promenades

While many public parks in the UAE restrict dogs, some waterfront areas in Ras Al Khaimah are dog-friendly, offering scenic walking and socializing spots for pets.

• Al Marjan Island Corniche
  
  • Features: A 2 km stretch with wide walking tracks, jogging paths, and cycling lanes.
    
  • Why it’s good for dogs: Spacious tracks allow dogs to walk or jog with owners safely amidst palm trees and waterfront views.
    
• Al Qawasim Corniche
  
  • Features: Waterfront promenade with green seating areas and walking tracks along the mangroves.
    
  • Why it’s good for dogs: Dogs can enjoy a scenic and calm walk with lots of space to explore.
    
• Al Hamra Corniche
  
  • Location: Near Al Hamra Beach
    
  • Features: Popular community area where residents walk their dogs.
    
  • Why it’s good for dogs: Combines beach proximity with walking tracks, making it ideal for exercise and socialization.