Synonymous with glitz and glamour, Dubai certainly has its downsides with expats complaining that it’s ‘soulless’ and overrun with influencers, not to mention long working hours and the high cost of living.
Now, those looking to escape the ‘Dubai Depression‘, as it’s known among international residents, are moving directly to a neighbouring emirate that’s fast becoming the ‘classy’ alternative to the UAE’s most famous city.
Just an hour from the new money of Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), known as the ‘nature emirate’ with 42 miles of coastline along the Arabian Gulf, is a far cry from the overtourism and showy wealth of Dubai, but with all of its advantages.
Set in the northern reaches of the Emirates, it’s an up-and-coming favourite among British expats, such as entrepreneur Ben Moss, who shares tales from his new life in RAK on his TikTok account @mr_moss_media – one of the new crop of influencers promoting his home as an alternative to Dubai.
‘It used to be that the British would move to Dubai first then later move to Ras Al Khaimah, whereas now they’re interested in moving directly here,’ he explained in a recent video.
Other clips show him kayaking and enjoying virtually empty beaches – while he insists that the Al Qawasim Corniche where he lives is the ‘best place’ in the UAE thanks to the ‘actual cost of living’ and the opportunities available.
Ras Al Khaimah has all of the beautiful beaches of Dubai – without the gaudiness
Indeed, the day-to-day necessities are far cheaper than Dubai, with basic utilities costing the equivalent of £90 a month in RAK, compared to £129 in the neighbouring emirate.
It’s possible to rent a one-bedroom apartment for £576 a month, whereas this would set you back more than £1,700 for a city centre property in Dubai.
However, wages are significantly lower with the average monthly salary in Dubai coming in at around £3,000, while it’s just £1,300 in RAK.
Other residents are lured in by the promise of great weather, affordable school prices and ‘crystal-clean water’, resident @dilshod_anvar explains.
For those who want something extravagant yet unique, RAK is framed by desert dunes, rugged mountains and an untouched coastline.
One visitor shared a video on Instagram, highlighting its beauty. Dhaval Dave shared the clip on his account @dhavalmavreck, captioning the post: ‘Ras Al Khaimah is a place where you don’t rush – you arrive.
Has Dubai lost its charm, or are expats simply chasing a more authentic lifestyle elsewhere?
‘From waking up to calm waters at an all-inclusive beach resort, to wandering through traditional gold souks, climbing historic forts, and learning the art of pearl diving where it all began… every experience here feels grounded and unhurried.
‘Add to that preserved heritage villages, mountain views from the highest restaurant in the UAE, and flavours that make you slow down even more – and you begin to understand why RAK is different.
‘This is a destination for travellers who want luxury with soul, history with meaning, and moments that stay with you long after the journey ends.’
Another visitor dubbed RAK the ‘hidden gem’ of the UAE, citing the mountains, beaches, views and old town as some of the major draws.
Instagram influencer Daniel Marin shared a video on his account @dfmarin, writing: ‘From the stunning Hajar Mountains to the pristine beaches along the Arabian Gulf, this city is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
‘Whether I’m hiking up Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, soaking in panoramic views, or unwinding at the luxurious resorts along the coastline, every moment feels unforgettable.’
Unlike Dubai, it appears the experiences here feel far more authentic.
Daniel explains in his video caption: ‘The charming old town, traditional souks, and desert experiences give a real glimpse into authentic Emirati life, while the modern resorts and world-class dining make it a destination for luxury seekers too.’
And it’s perfect for a pause, ‘to reset your mind,’ @nikitamankar shares in a video of the emirate.
Marjan Island seafront in Ras al Khaimah has all of the beauty of its counterpart, Dubai
Switching Dubai for RAK doesn’t mean you need to forgo the things that give the former its appeal, either.
Luxury hotels, for one, are a dime a dozen here – and less full of influencers taking snaps over breakfast.
Just this year, several new glamorous offerings are set to open in RAK.
That includes the Sajj A Mantis Collection Mountain Lodge, 35 luxury lodges in a stunning mountain retreat and Hilton Marjan Island Beach Resort & Spa with a 360-degree sky pool.
JW Marriott Al Marjan Island Resort will open in 2026 on the beachfront, as well as Le Meridien Marjan Island Resort & Spa.
In addition to hotels, five-star dining is available too. RAK restaurants boast delicious offerings from traditional Arabic cuisine and Asian fusion to European food, food trucks, and hidden gems.
TimeOut Ras Al Khaimah shared on Instagram: ‘New restaurants are opening soon in Ras Al Khaimah.
‘RAK’s dining scene is set to expand with the upcoming openings of Ladurée, tashas and Antonia. From Parisian sweets and all-day dining favourites to Italian menus.’
Visit Ras Al Khaimah also shared a clip of great restaurants to try out, posting: ‘From savouring authentic Emirati flavors at Eayshat Awal to indulging in culinary heights (literally!) at 1484 by Puro, and diving into Levantine delights at Kibba Wa Tabbola – your taste buds are in for a world tour. Ready to dine your way through paradise?’
Costs in RAK are far lower, with luxury hotels going up to 2,500 AED (£503) a night in Dubai, compared to 1,445 AED (£290) a night in RAK.
On the mid-range spectrum, Dubai’s average 300 to 600 AED (£60-£120) a night is up from RAK’s 220 to 475 AED (£44-£95) a night.
As for transport, it’s certainly cheaper in RAK, according to Visit Ras Al Khaimah – and the same goes for thrill activities.
Its website says: ‘When you choose Ras Al Khaimah, you can easily save around AED 200 to 300 (£40-£60) per day, depending on your travel style.
‘That’s enough to cover an activity, a meal upgrade, or an extra night’s stay.’
As such, while Dubai may still be trendy among the rich and famous, RAK has it all – but without the hordes of crowds, booked-up restaurants and extortionate prices to match.