If you think the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is all sand and skyscrapers, think again. Head north to Ras Al Khaimah, and you’ll discover a different type of adventure in the mountains.
Nestled within the Hajar mountain range, Jebel Jais provides a refreshing escape from the desert heat with its higher elevation and cooler temperatures. Its rugged landscape creates the perfect backdrop for thrilling activities, from hiking and zip-lining to stargazing and guided nature treks.
Are you planning a trip to experience heart-pounding adventures and fresh mountain air? This guide offers insights on where to stay, what to do, and what to pack to make the most of your summer trip to the Ras Al Khaimah mountains.
A Trip to the Mountains: Where to Stay in Ras Al Khaimah
While there are several accommodations near Jebel Jais, none get you closer to the summit (or to the action) as the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp (BGEC). Built for adventurous travelers of all levels, BGEC offers more than just a bed in the mountains. It’s your base for high-altitude survival training, designed by seasoned experts led by Bear Grylls himself.
The survival course draws on Grylls’ signature techniques and drops you into real mountain challenges. You’ll get hands-on with wilderness skills, all while surrounded by the rugged beauty of Jebel Jais.
Your stay includes:
- Wilderness cabin accommodation
- Camp-style meals
- Essential kit items
- A badge, neck tube, and certificate upon course completion
Just remember: all activities in BGEC are weather-dependent — another reason summer is the best time to go.
What to Do and Where to Go on Your Ras Al Khaimah Mountain Adventure
From hiking and camping to zip-lining and sightseeing, Jebel Jais offers a wide range of activities. Here are a few popular options that visitors enjoy to help you start planning your itinerary:
Camping
Want to try camping in the mountains? Visit Camp 1770, the highest camp in the UAE.
Offering a guided camping experience at 1770 meters above sea level, Camp 1770 offers awe-inspiring views of the mountains, date farms, abandoned shepherd communities, bustling fishing villages, and the Arabian Gulf. It is also a great place for stargazing and even practicing yoga under the stars.
Pro Tip: The nights can be chilly all year-round at high-altitude areas in Ras Al Khaimah, so be sure to layer your clothing when camping.
Hiking and Trekking
Jebel Jais is a popular destination for hiking in Ras Al Khaimah. In fact, it’s known as the “hiker’s paradise” because of its diverse trails, scenic vistas, and outdoor activities.
Jebel Jais has something for every type of hiker: short and easy routes for beginners, more challenging trails for experienced trekkers, and the Jebel Jais Via Ferrata for a more thrilling climb (more on this later).
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Pro Tip: Carry at least three liters of water, energy snacks, a first aid kit, and a charged mobile phone and wear appropriate hiking boots for comfort and safety.
Ziplining
Another popular activity in Jebel Jais is the Jais Flight. Crowned as the longest zip line in the world at 2.83 kilometers, it takes you on a heart-pounding “flight” across jagged mountain peaks and through deep ravines at a speed of up to 150 kilometers per hour. In just three minutes, you’ll zip down from 1,680 meters above the Arabian Gulf, experiencing unmatched euphoria from the descent.
Pro Tip: Wear athletic clothing that covers your arms and legs. Avoid loose garments. For footwear, stick to sports shoes or a pair of trainers for the rugged mountainous terrain.
Ledge Walking
Want to take your trek to Jebel Jais to the next level? Try the Via Ferrata.
An activity that blends mountaineering and rock climbing, the Ledge Walk offers adrenaline-junkies and thrill enthusiasts a new way to experience the ascent. Here, you can climb the same vertical cliff face as a pro climber without going through strenuous training.
Open Hours (Wednesday to Sunday):
- 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Pro Tip: Ensure you’re in good health and comfortable with heights, as the activity involves vertical climbs and zip lines.
Sightseeing
Not a fan of high-risk adventures? You can still bask in the beauty of the UAE’s highest peak without breaking a sweat at the Jais View Deck Park.
Located 1,250 meters above sea level, the View Deck is accessible by car, motorbike, 4×4, and bicycle. Even just the ride to the location gives you a chance to bask in the beauty of magical mountains, deserts, and culturally rich communities in Ras Al Khaimah.
The Jais View Deck Park covers an entire ridge and is composed of seven viewing decks. Each deck is equipped with state-of-the-art binoculars that let you witness majestic peaks, valleys, and zig-zagging roads on one side and villages, wadis, and the Arabian Gulf on the other. You can even watch other guests conquer their fears at Jais Flight.
Open Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Friday to Saturday: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Pro Tip: Be there between 5:30 to 6 p.m. to catch the breathtaking sunset.
What to Pack When Going to the Ras Al Khaimah Mountains in the Summer
Want to know the secret to an enjoyable mountain trip? Come prepared with the following items, and you’re one step closer to a hassle-free adventure.
Apparel
If you’re visiting Jebel Jais anytime between April and October, be sure to wear and pack breathable clothing, like moisture-wicking shirts and light trousers. It also helps to have a cooling towel for when you’re hiking under the sun.
Note that there’s a slight difference between packing for summer and winter in the Ras Al Khaimah mountains. However, you must never forget to bring a light jacket or hoodie, regardless of when you’re planning to go. Evenings can get chilly year-round, particularly when you’re staying overnight at above 1,000 meters above sea level, so it’s best to have pieces of clothing you can layer when needed.
Don’t forget your hiking shoes. Choose a comfortable but durable pair, especially if you’re hiking or trekking the rocky terrains of Jebel Jais.
Gadgets
Whether you intend to post Instagram photos of your Ras Al Khaimah adventure or not, it still pays to come prepared with a camera, a tripod and some extra batteries.
Of course, if need be, you can always snap images using your smartphone. Just remember to pack a charger and/or power bank to ensure your device is ready to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments during your trip.
Bring a headlamp in case you run out of sunlight on your trek up the Jebel Jais. This particular piece of equipment can also be handy during camping and wilderness explorations.
Protective Gear
While it may be cooler in higher altitudes, the sun’s rays can still feel harsh on your skin if you don’t use sunscreen. Pack hats and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. We also recommend wearing closed-toe shoes when engaging in adventure sports.
Health and Safety Essentials
Make your health and safety a priority on your trip to the mountains. While there are plenty of places to eat and drink in Ras Al Khaimah, it’s better to have some emergency snack stash in your bag, especially if you’re engaging in outdoor adventures or staying in remote camps.
Remember your refillable water bottles. You need to drink at least two liters of water for half a day of adventure (more if you’re engaging in popular outdoor activities in Ras Al Khaimah, like hiking, cycling, and rock climbing).
If you’re camping, pack your sleeping bag, toiletries, and first aid kit as well.
The Peak of Your Summer Plans
Think summer in the UAE means staying indoors? A trip to Jebel Jais proves otherwise. With cooler temperatures, dramatic landscapes, and a mix of adventure and quiet, the Ras Al Khaimah mountains offer a different kind of getaway.
Use this guide to plan where to stay, what to do, and what to bring, so you can make the most of your time above the clouds.
