Jebel Jais naturally attracts thrill-seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and nature lovers as the highest peak and the towering crown of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, a different group will flock to this world-famous peak this April.
On 12 April 2025, Jais Ride will bring cyclists together in a one-of-a-kind experience that will put their skills to the test on a dynamic cycling route filled with stunning mountain vistas of the Hajar mountain range.
Keep reading to learn more about the event and how you can make the most of your trip to Jebel Jais.
Jais Ride 2025: Fast Facts
Jais Ride is not your average outdoor activity in Ras Al Khaimah. Whether you’re a cyclist or a supporter of one, this cycling challenge will surely get your heart racing and itching to know who will reach the finish line first. Here’s a quick rundown of the important facts about the race:
What Is Jais Ride?
The Jais Ride is a bicycle competition happening at Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah for the first time this year.
The event brings together cyclists who wish to determine how they will fare against the legendary Jebel Jais. The peak is a crucial route for many cyclists in the Middle East because, besides being a stage in the UAE Tour, it is also renowned as one of the region’s most scenic cycling routes.
Open to intermediate and advanced cyclists at least 19 years old, Jais Ride is an endurance race split into various points across a 25-kilometer course. It offers a dynamically challenging ride that will test their cycling skills, particularly in sprints and uphill climbs.
When Is Jebel Jais Ride Happening?
The competition is set for 12 April 2025, from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. Registration will only run until the 10th of April at 11:59 p.m. or earlier if the event sells out. Cancellations are accepted while registrations are open, so be on the lookout for updates here.
What’s So Special About the Jebel Jais Route?
Cycling in Jebel Jais is no easy feat. As one of the world’s best mountain roads for biking, the route features a smooth but winding ascent, with switchbacks and dynamic elevation changes that offer an exciting ride for endurance riders.
The upcoming race will make the cycling challenge even more thrilling, with sprint segments and strategic checkpoints incorporated into the 25-kilometer route. Because of the enforced cut-off points during the competition, it is not recommended for beginners or even those who do not enjoy climbing uphill.
Starting at the bottom of Jebel Jais, the race will have a sprint section followed by the climb, which is split into several points. The first 20 cyclists to arrive across these splits will gain points accumulated across the three climbs offered (more on this below).
What Are the Cyclists Competing For?
The Jebel Jais cycling challenge offers stellar prizes for the top three finishers. The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) will also grant special awards for climbers and sprinters on special stages distributed across the route.
Below is a breakdown of the different categories for the race:
- Green Jersey Award: This 500-meter sprint segment award will be given to the fastest sprinter in the competition.
- King of the Mountain (KOM) Points: Each of the 20 fastest riders to reach each climb segment will earn KOM points they can accumulate to win the Polka Dot Jersey award. The number of points earned will reflect their position in the top 20, with the top rider garnering 20 KOM points.
- Polka Dot Jersey Award: This award is for the cyclist with the highest total KOM points across the three segments – 7 km, 14 km, and 21 km – of the 25-kilometer route. The awardee will also be recognized as the race’s best climber.
- Yellow Jersey Award: This award is granted to the top three overall winners of the race, specifically those who reach the summit first.
Watch the Jebel Jais Mountain Road Race: How to Prepare
Want to witness the race or support a cyclist joining the competition?
Be sure to arrive early, as the race will start at 5 a.m. on 12 April 2025. If you want to learn who crosses the finish line first as it happens, you should also plan for an extended stay, as the race will last until 9 p.m.
Below are some tips on how you can prepare for the event:
Book Early
There are many hotels and accommodations near Jebel Jais, but with the event expected to draw crowds, it’s best to secure your booking early. Here are some of the top accommodations you can choose from:
- Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort
- Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island
- DoubleTree by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah
- Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island
Also, you should consider what other Jebel Jais activities you can enjoy during your stay besides watching the cycling race.
For example, if you wish to go on an adventure yourself, consider booking a stay at Bear Grylls’ Explorers Camp. This camp-inspired accommodation features survival courses based on the adventures of British personality Bear Grylls.
Here, you can learn to thrive in the wilderness, particularly in mountain and desert terrains, under the tutelage of hand-picked instructors. This accommodation is great for groups but is also open to individuals who love the challenge. More importantly, it is the closest accommodation to the race’s start line.
Want to stay and just chill after experiencing the thrill of the race? Book a staycation at InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa and enjoy a spectacular view of the Hajar Mountain Range and Arabian Gulf. This luxury resort offers luxurious accommodations, unmatched hospitality, a relaxing spa experience, and diverse dining options, making your stay all the more special.
Plan Your Transportation
If you’re planning to drive to Jebel Jais, you have several transportation options:
- Hailing a cab
- Driving your own car
- Renting a vehicle
- Using a ride-hailing service
The journey from downtown Ras Al Khaimah typically takes around an hour, but be sure to account for potential traffic to ensure you arrive on time for Jais Ride.
Make the Most Out of Your Visit
Watching the endurance cycling challenge is just one of many activities you can do in the UAE’s northernmost emirate. If you plan to extend your stay, you might as well add these awesome adventures in Jebel Jais to your itinerary:
- Jais Sky Tour
- Jais Flight
You can also dine with your companions at 1484 by Puro or have a picnic at the Jais Viewing Deck Park.
Witness the Thrill of the Race
Get ready for an unforgettable cycling spectacle you won’t forget! Jais Ride promises thrilling climbs and stunning views atop the UAE’s highest peak. Secure your spot on the mountain and witness history unfold as 100 cyclists pedal to conquer the Jebel Jais summit!
