DRIVE north out of Dubai and the scenery begins to change, slowly but dramatically. The skyscrapers and the harsh desert landscape disappear, the sand turns a deeper red colour, and green shrubs and trees flourish by the roadside. The journey down the newly built Emirates Road lasts only 45 minutes, before you arrive in Ras al-Khaimah — known locally as Rak.

This lovely resort, nestled between the Hajjar Mountains to the east and the Gulf to the west, has become the weekend hangout for the “work hard, play hard” set from Dubai.

You may not have heard of Rak before — probably because there is little there at present. But investment is slowly filtering in and it looks as if those who missed the boat in Dubai could have a second chance with Ras al-Khaimah, which has the added bonus of offering some of the region’s most breathtaking natural beauty.

Consider buying property in any of the United Arab Emirates and, after Dubai, you are more than likely to draw a blank. But now with huge investment by the Government and international companies, the FT has named Ras al-Khaimah as the most cost-efficient of the emirates. Not surprisingly, with land and property space in Dubai in very short supply, its neighbour is reaping an advantage.

The main focus is the seaside resort of al-Hamra, which boasts a five-star hotel with an 18-hole championship golf course, a picturesque marina and a first-class shopping area. Some residential properties have already been built and sold in the grounds of the “village”.

In addition, a large Dubai developer, Global Estate Group, is undertaking the final phase — known as The Royal Breeze — of residential property to be released in al-Hamra. As more Europeans discover this emirate as a holiday destination, the prospect of investing in property there seems more enticing. And so it should. Ras al-Khaimah is cheaper than Dubai and has great potential for rental returns and capital gains.

The Royal Breeze has studios and one, two and three-bedroom apartments with views across the 150-berth marina or over the golf course. Prices range from £44,753 for a studio to £358,032. The development is being sold in Britain through the agents Property Advice Dubai. All properties are sold freehold with a parking space, but membership of the golf course is separate. The beautiful gardens and crystal-clear sea make this place a veritable oasis. To secure privacy and exclusivity, only residents and hotel guests are allowed access to the village.

Ras al-Khaimah is fast becoming the new holiday destination of the Middle East — with its imposing mountains, sandy deserts, lush green plains and miles of untouched coastline; there are plans for various further developments, including an eco-friendly hotel in a nature conservation area and apartments and a five-star hotel in the mountains, which will boast a snow slope and a climbing and abseiling centre.

The only real downside is that, although Ras al-Khaimah has an airport, there are no direct flights from the UK. Until such flights arrive, the rather long and arduous drive to and from Dubai will continue.

Property Advice Dubai, 020-7873 2266, www.propertyadvicedubai.com,

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