⛰️🏞️ Jebel Jais – UAE’s Majestic Mountain Escape in Ras Al Khaimah 🏞️⛰️
Towering at 1,934 meters above sea level, Jebel Jais is the highest peak in the United Arab Emirates and a true natural gem tucked within the Hajar Mountains of Ras Al Khaimah. With its cooler temperatures, jaw-dropping views, thrilling activities, and serene beauty, Jebel Jais is a dream destination for nature lovers, road trippers, and adventure seekers alike.
Here’s your beautifully coordinated guide to the ultimate mountaintop escape in the UAE:
🗻 1. The Highest Peak in the UAE
Jebel Jais offers a dramatic change from the flat desert terrain of the UAE, featuring rugged cliffs, deep canyons, and panoramic views. The scenic drive up the mountain is an experience in itself—think winding roads, perfect pit stops, and Instagram-worthy viewpoints.
📸 Pro Tip: Time your visit for sunset or sunrise to catch the golden glow over the mountain range.
🌬️ 2. Cooler Temperatures Year-Round
Thanks to its high elevation, Jebel Jais enjoys a refreshing climate, especially during the summer when temperatures are typically 10°C cooler than in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
❄️ Best Time to Visit: October to April, when you can enjoy hikes and outdoor activities without the intense heat.
🚀 3. Home to the World’s Longest Zipline – Jais Flight
Adrenaline junkies, rejoice! Jebel Jais is home to the Guinness World Record-holding Jais Flight—the longest zipline in the world at 2.83 km. Soar like a falcon across deep mountain valleys at speeds of up to 160 km/h.
🪂 Zipline Experience:
Duration: Approx. 2–3 minutes of flight time
Requirements: Minimum height 122 cm, min weight 40kg, max 130kg
Cost: ~AED 350–450 per person
Booking in advance is highly recommended
🥾 4. Hiking Trails & Nature Walks
If ziplining isn’t your thing, the Jebel Jais mountain is also known for its scenic hiking routes with various difficulty levels. The Jebel Jais Hiking Trail (5–6 km loop) offers marked paths, viewpoints, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
🥾 What to Bring: Good hiking shoes, water, sun protection, and a jacket (it can get windy and chilly at the top).
🍽️ 5. Jais Viewing Deck Park & Restaurants
Enjoy a picnic with a view or grab a bite at the Jais Viewing Deck Park—a scenic area with food trucks, shaded seating, and designated BBQ zones. A perfect spot for families and couples to relax after a drive or hike.
🍔 Don’t Miss:
1484 by Puro: The UAE’s highest restaurant, named after its altitude—offering gourmet dining with jaw-dropping views.
🧗 6. More Adventure: Jais Sledder & Jais Sky Tour
Jebel Jais has expanded its thrill portfolio with:
Jais Sledder: A 1,840-meter toboggan-style ride that zooms down the mountain with speeds up to 40 km/h.
Jais Sky Tour: A series of six connected ziplines and a sky bridge walk for a lighter, scenic adventure.
🎢 Family-Friendly & perfect for kids above 3 years (sledder)
🛣️ 7. Scenic Drive from Dubai/Abu Dhabi
From Dubai: Approx. 2.5 hours by car
From Abu Dhabi: Approx. 3.5 hours
The drive is safe, well-signposted, and incredibly picturesque—especially as you ascend into the mountains.
⛺ 8. Camping & Stargazing
Jebel Jais is one of the best spots in the UAE for stargazing, thanks to minimal light pollution. There are no official campsites yet, but experienced campers often pitch tents along designated flat areas (check for updates & permissions).
🛎️ For luxury lovers: Try the Bear Grylls Explorer Camp for guided survival training and glamping experiences.
🧭 9. Traveler Tips
✅ Must-Pack:
Light jacket (even in summer)
Hiking shoes
Sunglasses, sunblock, water
Camera or drone for epic views
🚫 Watch Out For:
No fuel stations after a certain point—fill up before ascending
Limited restrooms along the route
Roads can get foggy in winter—drive carefully
✅ Pros:
Stunning natural scenery & unique road trip experience
Great mix of adventure and relaxation
Perfect escape from the city heat
Family-friendly and romantic at the same time
⛔ Cons:
Remote location, needs car or transport booking
Weather changes quickly (prepare for wind & cold)
Few overnight lodging options at the summit (as of now)