Cycling in Ras Al Khaimah brings a rush that hiking or walking rarely matches, especially when you want to conquer its mountains. On a bike, the climb challenges your strength and endurance, but the reward comes the moment you reach the peak.
Once you start your descent, you get an exhilarating ride down, with the wind in your face and the scenery flying past. You’ll have a more enjoyable time taking on this challenge.
But whether you’re cycling up and down a mountain or tackling a coastal road, the cycling routes in Ras Al Khaimah make every ride feel like an adventure – something you won’t experience when you’re not on a bike.
Cycling also lets you cover more ground in less time, allowing you to link routes, take a break at a café or any stop, and still have several hours left to enjoy your day.
If you want to take on an athletic challenge and explore the United Arab Emirates’ adventure hub, hop on your mountain bike instead of lacing up your hiking boots.
Jebel Jais: A Cycling Destination for Biking Enthusiasts
There are plenty of outdoor activities to do in Ras Al Khaimah, particularly in Jebel Jais, but cycling is something you should try here if you’re an avid cyclist.
Jebel Jais is part of the Hajar Mountain Range, one of the tallest mountain ranges in the Arabian Peninsula. Its summit boasts an elevation of 1,934 meters.
The mountain is known for its rugged peaks, canyons, cliffs, and wadis. It is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, such as the rare wildflowers Echiochilon jugatum and Olea europaea, Arabian red fox, wild cats, mountain goats, desert lark, and Persian wheatear.
The Jebel Jais biking trail lets you tackle one of the best mountain roads for cycling in the world. The route combines smooth stretches with winding turns and switchbacks, offering cyclists an exciting ride.
Tackling Jebel Jais involves a 36-kilometer ride with a challenging 1,900-meter elevation gain. Although the Jebel Jais cycling route is full of winding turns and steep ascents, the roads are well-paved and smooth.
While cycling, you can get great views of the mountains. The most stunning scenes you’ll see are waiting at the summit, so the ascent is definitely worth your effort.
You have the option of driving part of the way up to Jebel Jais and start cycling higher up the route.
The route has several places where you can stop, take a break, and get the energy you need to take on the remaining distance to the summit.
Early Starts, Better Rides
Morning is the best time to start a ride up Jebel Jais. This is because the early hours bring cooler air, which makes the long ascent less strenuous and challenging. This helps you conserve the energy for the switchbacks ahead.
Traffic is also lighter during mornings, so the road feels safer and more open. As such, you can focus on your rhythm instead of the possible distractions.
You’ll be rewarded with a beautiful sunrise if you decide to take on the Jebel Jais cycling route earlier. You can watch the mountains light up in soft colors while you pedal upward. This can give you a sense of calm and help you realize that all the effort is worthwhile.
By starting early, you also finish before the strongest heat of the day, giving you more time to explore the other attractions.
All these make Jebel Jais one of the cool AM climbs in the UAE you should experience.
Scenic Coffee and Snack Spots in Jebel Jais
Take a break and refuel at these coffee and food stops during your cycling tour in Jebel Jais:
1484 by Puro
Fill up and replenish your energy with a delectable breakfast at 1484 by Puro, the UAE’s highest restaurant.
Enjoy spectacular views of the Jebel Jais Mountains as you dig into your choice of breakfast staples, such as Eggs Benedict, pancakes, or chicken and waffles. The restaurant also offers vegan-, vegetarian-, and keto-friendly options if you’re on a dietary restriction or want something healthy.
Choose among the many hot and cold coffee drinks and other beverages to fully reenergize.
Puro Express
If you need a quick bite, head to Puro Express, which is located on the Jais Viewing Deck Park.
Puro Express is an outdoor café that offers incredible views of the Hajar mountains. Here, you can reward yourself with a slice or two of pizza and other light snacks.
You can also drink hot or cold coffee and other beverages to quench your thirst.
Syr.up by Puro
Syr.up by Puro is another café located in Jais Viewing Deck Park. Indulge in pancakes, waffles, and other delectable sweets and desserts as you enjoy the amazing mountain views after cycling up the Jebel Jais climb.
This dining spot has a calming vibe that can help you relax after the long ride. It also features a chic décor, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Jebel Jais.
Muse Café
Stop by Muse Café to reward yourself with delectable healthy options with Arabic twists. All menu items are crafted by professional chefs using fresh ingredients.
If you need caffeine after the long ride, fill up with a cup of premium, manually brewed or cold-pressed coffee prepared to your liking. Take in the serene vibe as you enjoy your snack and sip your drink.
Other Cycling Routes and Tracks to Explore
Here are other places in Ras Al Khaimah to take your bike out for a spin:
Al Marjan Corniche
Al Marjan Corniche, which is located on the southwestern part of Al Marjan Island, has a 3.5-kilometer cycling track. This circuit is dotted with restaurants, cafés, food carts, and children’s play areas.
Wadi Shawka
Wadi Shawka is a challenging cycling trail found in the Hajar Mountains, a favorite of avid mountain bikers. The route features steep ascents, challenging descents, and other natural obstacles.
Showka-Hatta Loop
Go for a long ride by taking this route. Start at Showka Bicycles, then take the New Hatta Road to Hatta. You’ll pass through Generator Hill and Hweylat and ride back to Shawka. Most parts of the roads are fully paved, but there are around 90 kilometers of pure cycling routes.
Al Jazirah Al Hamra Beach Trail
This 7.5-kilometer loop is ideal for both leisure and adventure bikers who want to enjoy road cycling in the UAE. The trail passes through the desert and offers great views of the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Gulf.
Cycling on Another Level
Cycling in Ras Al Khaimah, especially up Jebel Jais, takes the sport to another level. With smooth climbs, thrilling descents, and plenty of scenic stops, every ride feels like both a challenge and a reward.
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