Think the UAE is only about deserts and skyscrapers? Think again. Jebel Jais, the country’s tallest mountain, rises high above the rocky landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah and offers a cool, high-altitude escape packed with thrilling adventures, scenic drives, and peaceful picnic spots.
At over 1,934 meters above sea level, Jebel Jais is quickly becoming one of the UAE’s top outdoor destinations—especially for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers looking for something different.
From flying across deep mountain canyons on the world’s longest zipline to hiking rugged trails and enjoying sunset views with a cup of karak tea, Jebel Jais is the UAE’s ultimate mountain escape.
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Soar Through the Sky on the World’s Longest Zipline
Let’s start with the showstopper: Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline, certified by the Guinness World Records.
Spanning 2.83 kilometers, this heart-racing ride sends you flying at speeds of up to 160 km/h over breathtaking cliffs and rocky valleys. You’ll be strapped into a superman-style harness and launched from a platform at the top of the mountain. It’s as close to flying as most of us will ever get.
Operated by Jais Adventure Park, the experience is completely safe and well-managed, with trained staff and all safety gear provided. It’s open year-round, but early booking is recommended—especially on weekends.
If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush in the UAE, this is it.
Explore the Jebel Jais Hiking Trails
Not a fan of heights? No problem. Jebel Jais offers a wide variety of hiking trails that wind through the mountains, offering dramatic views, desert wildlife, and plenty of fresh air.
The Jebel Jais Hiking Trail network spans over 16 kilometers, split into easy, moderate, and advanced routes. The Samar Trail and Ghaf Summit Trail are popular choices for beginners and families, offering well-marked paths and shaded rest areas.
For more experienced hikers, the Sky Summit Trail offers steep climbs and panoramic photo spots that make every step worth it. Trail maps and safety information are available at the Jais Welcome Center, and guided hikes can be booked for added safety and insight.
Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to hike, especially from October to April when the mountain climate is cooler and more pleasant than the cities below.
Scenic Drives and Stunning Picnic Spots
One of the most enjoyable parts of a Jebel Jais visit is simply the drive itself. The Jebel Jais mountain road is often called one of the most beautiful in the UAE. With hairpin turns, sweeping views, and well-maintained asphalt, it’s a favorite for road trippers and motorbike enthusiasts.
Along the route, you’ll find multiple viewing platforms and picnic areas, many with built-in barbecues, shaded seating, and breathtaking sunset views.
Pack a picnic, bring a portable grill, and spend the afternoon enjoying the fresh air and silence—only interrupted by birdsong and the occasional echo of adventure seekers ziplining overhead.
For a romantic escape or a quiet family outing, these spots are peaceful, safe, and perfectly scenic.
Other Activities at Jais Adventure Park
If ziplining and hiking aren’t enough, Jais Adventure Park has more fun in store.
- Jais Sky Tour: A slightly tamer zipline experience with six short ziplines connected by sky bridges, allowing you to explore the cliffs from above at a more relaxed pace.
- Jais Sledder: One of the newest attractions—a gravity-powered toboggan ride that winds down the mountainside for 1,840 meters at speeds of up to 40 km/h. It’s family-friendly and gives you stunning views while riding.
- Bear Grylls Explorers Camp: For the truly adventurous, spend the night in a survival-style mountain camp and take part in wilderness training inspired by the famous explorer himself.
These experiences make Jebel Jais not just a one-time visit—but a full-blown adventure weekend waiting to happen.
Where to Eat and Stay
After all that adventure, you’ll need to refuel. At the top of the mountain is 1484 by Puro, the UAE’s highest restaurant (named after its height in meters). It serves international cuisine and coffee with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks.
For longer stays, Ras Al Khaimah offers several luxury resorts and hotels nearby, including The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert and Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort. Budget-friendly options are also available in the city.
There are also plans for mountain lodges and eco-glamping on Jebel Jais itself, offering the chance to sleep under the stars without leaving the mountaintop.
When to Visit Jebel Jais
The best time to visit is between October and April, when temperatures on the mountain are 10°C cooler than in nearby cities. Even in summer, Jebel Jais remains a few degrees more comfortable due to its altitude.
Weekends can get busy, especially during the winter, so weekdays offer a quieter experience. Most activities run from morning until sunset, and it’s best to book zipline tickets and adventure activities in advance.
How to Get There
Jebel Jais is located in Ras Al Khaimah, about 2 hours by car from Dubai. The drive is straightforward with clear signage. While public transportation won’t take you to the peak, tours and private transfers are available.
Make sure your car is fueled and road-ready—the mountain road is smooth but steep.
Conclusion
Jebel Jais is not just the UAE’s tallest peak—it’s one of its most exciting and surprising destinations. Whether you’re zooming through the air on the world’s longest zipline, hiking mountain trails, or enjoying a peaceful sunset picnic, this adventure spot offers a fresh side of the UAE that many still haven’t discovered.
So next time you’re craving a thrill—or just a breath of fresh air—head for the mountains. Jebel Jais is calling.
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