Tucked away in the beautiful emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, Al Marjan Island is a man-made marvel that is turning heads. From its strategic location on the Arabian Gulf to its smooth connectivity and a lineup of attractions, this artificial wonder is capturing the attention of travellers and investors alike.
In this blog, we will take a detailed journey through Al Marjan Island Community to understand what makes this island so special. From its easy-to-reach location to the lifestyle and facilities it offers, you will see why more people are putting this spot on their radar. Whether you are planning your next vacation or just curious about the region, read on to discover what sets this island apart.
Al Marjan Island's Location: Where Desert Meets the Gulf
Al Marjan Island isn’t just another beachside spot, it’s something special. Just southwest of Ras Al Khaimah’s city centre, the island reaches out into the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf, forming a beautiful chain of four coral-shaped islands. This reclaimed land covers roughly 4.5 kilometres in length.
Here you are standing where golden desert sands meet the sparkling sea, yet the buzz of the city is only a short drive away. Covering about 2.7 million square meters, the island is a stunning example of modern engineering blending beautifully with nature. From here, you can soak in sweeping views of the Gulf on one side and the rugged Jebel Jais mountains, the UAE’s tallest peak, on the other. It is the kind of place that feels both relaxing and awe-inspiring at the same time.
A Quick Geography Lesson
How Far from Major Cities?
60 minutes from Dubai
20 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah city centre
Around 2 hours from Abu Dhabi
About 50 minutes from Sharjah
Seamless Connectivity: Easy Access by Road, Sea, and Air
One of the most impressive aspects of Al Marjan Island is its connectivity, not just for visitors, but for those thinking of investing or residing in this community.
By Road: The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Salem Road is the main artery connecting Al Marjan Island to the rest of Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE. If you live in Dubai or Sharjah, a direct highway brings you right to the island in little over an hour.
By Air: The Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is just a 30-minute car ride away. Moreover, Dubai International Airport, the region's busiest, is accessible within 60 minutes, a boon for international guests.
Public Transport: While the UAE's public transportation system is still growing in Ras Al Khaimah, buses (RAK Bus Station), taxis and private transfers are reliable and widely used.
Future-Proofed: Plans are in place for enhanced public transit links and potential ferry access, reflecting the island's ongoing development.
The Promise of Education on Al Marjan Island
For families thinking about moving, education is often at the top of the list. While Al Marjan Island is best known for its luxury living and stunning views, plans are to introduce schools and other educational facilities directly on the island, catering to the growing residential population as the community expands.
Nearby Schooling Options
While there aren’t any dedicated schools located directly on Al Marjan Island just yet, families living on the island have easy access to several well-established schools in Ras Al Khaimah, all just a short drive away.
RAK Academy: Founded over 40 years ago, RAK Academy is one of the region’s most respected schools. It offers both the UK and International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula, serving students from Early Years through to Sixth Form.
GEMS Westminster School: Part of the well-known GEMS Education group, this school follows the British curriculum and is known for its academic standards and diverse, welcoming community.
Indian School, Ras Al Khaimah: Affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), serving the Indian expat community. This school provides quality education with a strong cultural foundation.
Accessibility and Commute
Most of these schools are within a 20–30-minute drive from Al Marjan Island. This close access to quality schools is a big plus for families who want to enjoy a relaxed, resort-style lifestyle without compromising on their children’s education.
Plans for Island-Based Education
Al Marjan Island is making education a priority in its master plan. The goal is to develop school facilities right on the island, so parents can have convenient and nearby options as the community continues to grow and thrive. With the population increasing and more families moving in, developers and investors have signalled interest in establishing international schools right on Al Marjan Island.
Healthcare Services on Al Marjan Island: What's Available and What's Next
No matter how picturesque your neighbourhood may be, peace of mind comes with knowing that healthcare facilities are close by. Let's look at the care options for residents of Al Marjan Island.
Present Healthcare Facilities
Dr. Amina Al Amiri's Clinic, RAK Medical Centre (also called RAK Medical Centre Al Hamra), Al Afia Medical Centre and Nexus Medical Clinic are some medical facilities nearby. Also, multiple clinics and hospitals in Ras Al Khaimah city centre provide:
General practitioners and family medicine
Paediatricians and specialized clinics
Emergency services and ambulances
Some notable medical providers nearby include:
RAK Hospital: A private hospital accredited by JCI, offering a wide range of medical specialities and patient care.
Saif Bin Ghobash Hospital: A government-run hospital offering reliable public healthcare services.
Emirates Hospital Clinic: Part of a well-known private chain, this clinic is popular with expats for its modern facilities and expat-friendly staff.
Emergency Response and Accessibility
Al Marjan Island's infrastructure supports rapid response times, with ambulances from the city reaching the island within 15–20 minutes. Additionally, some resorts and residential towers have on-site medical rooms and first-aid support, a feature many residents appreciate.
Future Healthcare Projects and Vision
The master plans for Al Marjan Island include designated zones for healthcare facilities.
Purpose-built family health centres
Private clinics specializing in paediatrics, women's health, and geriatrics
Wellness and preventative care hubs, echoing the island's lifestyle focus
Major private health groups have reportedly considered opening satellite clinics as the population base grows, a trend seen in other UAE coastal developments.
Top Attractions
Whether you are a thrill-seeker, a serenity lover, or want to soak up some culture, Al Marjan Island rolls out the red carpet with experiences for every personality. Al Marjan Island is not just a place to visit; it is a world of experiences waiting around every corner, from high-adrenaline adventure to serene sunsets on private sands.
Resorts & Beach Clubs
Rixos Bab Al Bahr: Known for its all-inclusive luxury, this resort is a favourite with sprawling pools, live entertainment, endless dining options, and private beach access, perfect for a carefree escape.
Marjan Island Resort & Spa: This family-friendly resort strikes a perfect balance between relaxation and recreation. With wellness-focused amenities, a calm beachfront, and plenty of activities for kids and adults, it’s ideal for a wholesome family holiday.
DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa: Popular for its delightful dining and a host of activities with a variety of dining options, beachside lounges, and a long list of fun activities, from water sports to kids’ programs.
Beaches and Water Adventures
Public Beaches: Long stretches of golden sand are open to all, perfect for a peaceful afternoon picnic or a long walk at sunset.
Water Sports Galore: Jet-skiing, paddleboarding, and flyboarding are just the beginning.
Lifestyle, Dining, and Entertainment
Al Marjan Corniche: A seaside promenade lined with cafes and casual eateries. Watching sunset with a lemonade in hand at one of the local food trucks.
Upcoming Wynn Resort Project: A casino and entertainment complex poised to make the island a powerhouse for nightlife and leisure (expected to open in 2027).
Adventure and Exploration
Proximity to Jebel Jais: The UAE's longest zipline and breathtaking trek paths are a short drive away.
Water Parks and Family Fun: The island is seeing plans for themed water attractions aimed at families and kids.
Community and Events
Festivals: Annual events like the Ras Al Khaimah New Year's Eve fireworks regularly break records for the world's longest fireworks display, lighting up the island.
Wellness Retreats: Residents and guests can take part in weekly yoga sessions, beach fitness, and wellness festivals throughout the year.
Conclusion
Al Marjan Island's unique geography, strategic location, and ever-evolving lineup of attractions make it far more than a pretty beachfront. With easy connections to Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, a blend of vibrant community and world-class amenities, and no shortage of things to do, it is set to grow as both a travel hotspot and a place to build lasting memories. Al Marjan Island is a place where convenience, natural beauty, and excitement all come together, making it an ideal destination for curious travellers, future residents, and culture seekers alike.
For families, Al Marjan Island offers not just a home, but a lifestyle with the promise of comfort. While dedicated schools and medical centres are still in development phases on the island, the proximity of Ras Al Khaimah's reputable schools and hospitals ensures families do not have to compromise.
