If spooky things are what you’re into, I’ve got some chilling tea to spill with you today. Tucked away in Ras Al Khaimah is a massive palace that’s been wrapped in mystery, even for the locals, for nearly 4 decades. It was built back in 1985 by the late Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Qasimi, and it was supposed to be a dreamy family home. But rumour has it, the Sheikh and his wife spent just one night inside before packing their bags and never coming back. Why? Because the locals say it’s haunted! Now, for the faint hearted ones reading this, you might want to stop here. But if you’re ready to say how the diligent people of Ras Al Khaimah braved their way inside this ‘haunted’ palace and transformed into something as spectacular as a museum, then I suggest you definitely keep reading for all the fascinating details.
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Fast Forward 35 Years
After being completely empty for over 35 years (and creeping everyone out in the process), the palace has finally opened to the public, and it’s now a full-blown museum! It’s called Al Qasr Al Ghamedh, and even though the spooky tales still hang in the air, it’s become a pretty popular spot for curious visitors and brave explorers.
Is The Inside Worth Checking Out?
Once you step in, you’ll walk through 4 massive floors and 35 rooms filled with vintage furniture, rare antiques, musical instruments, old-school chandeliers, and artworks from all over the world. The vibe is a mix of Islamic, Moroccan, Persian, and Indian design. Which means, every room you enter kind of feels like you’ve stepped into a different era. And if you makes you feels any better, I’m sure they got the ghostbusters come down and help change the palaces status from ‘haunted’ to (for the lack of a better word) ‘not haunted’.
Oh, and get this, there’s a giant glass pyramid at the top of the palace that lets sunlight pour in, lighting up the entire space in the most beautiful way you could imagine. But if that eerie factor is still what you’re looking for, the marble statues, zodiac signs on the walls, and slightly creepy murals, should definitely do that for you. Because if you take enough pictures at just the right angle, you’re friends on social media might not think you’re in a museum but rather the set of a mystery movie. Still sounds like a pretty cool afternoon, either way. Although in this case the pictures will also have to mental ones, because the museum strictly doesn’t allow any photography.
The Outdoor Area Is Just As Stunning
And if you thought the inside was nice, wait till you what else is in store for you. Step outside and there’s a quiet garden, a fountain, and even a little lake, all poised in the most picture perfect way. You’ll find it to be a peaceful contrast to all the mystery inside. It’s the kind of place you explore slowly, taking in all the tiny details that make it feel like a real-life fairytale. Or ghost story, depending on how you wish to see it.
Do You Need Tickets To Enter Al Qasr Al Ghamedh?
The short answer is yes. If you’re ready to explore, the palace is open every day from 9am-7pm, and tickets cost AED 75 per person. But if you go in a group, prices are brought down to just AED 50 per person. You can buy your tickets at the door. And just a reminder again, there is no photography is allowed inside the museum. So, once you’re inside just remember to enjoy the moment for yourself and soak it all in. You’ll also need around 1-1.5 hours while you’re inside, so plan your trip accordingly. And don’t bank on any central AC systems to keep you chilly and cold while you’re inside. Dress in such a way that you’ll be able to breathe through your clothes and maybe withstand some, good old fashion sweat.
How To Get There?
Al Qasr Al Ghamedh is ust over 120 km from Dubai and here are the fastest driving routes:
- Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd (E311): ~122.5 km, approx. 1 hr 18 min
- Emirates Rd (E611): ~130.3 km, around 1 hr 21 min
- E11 to E611: ~132.3 km, about 1 hr 28 min
All 3 routes are straightforward highways, just pick the one that suits your starting point or timing best.
Unfortunately, there aren’t any direct bus routes to the palace itself. So you’ll need to drive down with your personal car or hop in a taxi. Once in Ras Al Khaimah, you can also take a local taxi from the bus station or your drop‑off.
Are Stepping Into Ras Al Khaimah’s ‘Haunted’ Palace Museum?
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, this once-abandoned palace now has to be on your must-visit list in UAE. It’s mysterious, a little dramatic, and totally fascinating. Basically, the perfect adventure for your next weekend escape.
Visit their website to grab your tickets online and get ready for museum experience you won’t find anywhere else.
