What to do in Ras al-Khaimah? Here are the best tips
December 2, 2024
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Imagine standing at the highest point in the United Arab Emirates, with breathtaking views of rugged mountains and deep gorges. Would you then dare to fly over the valley at a maximum speed of 160 km/h? Jebel Jais in Ras al-Khaimah exceeded all my expectations as an adventurer and lover of mountains and nature. In this article I will take you along the most beautiful places and of course share my special experiences in Jebel Jais!
What makes Jebel Jais in Ras al-Khaimah so special?
Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the United Arab Emirates, is a place that will instantly impress you. With its imposing peak, which is a whopping 1,934 meters above sea level, Jebel Jais offers not only breathtaking views, but also cool outdoor activities and a welcome escape from the desert and coastal heat. There is often a lovely cooling breeze, perfect for a day of hiking in the mountains.
What really makes this place special, if you ask me, is the mix of nature and adventure. The rugged Hadji Mountains seem to run on indefinitely, creating insane panoramas from wherever you stand. The road to the top, with its hairpin turns and spectacular views, is an experience in itself. Along the way you will find several spots where you can stop to take a picture. So keep your camera handy because the brown colors of the mountains stand out beautifully against the blue of the sky.
For me, it felt like discovering a different side of the Emirates here, on the mountaintop of Jebel Jais in Ras al-Khaimah. A side that is pure, unspoiled and surprisingly serene. The glitz and glamour of Dubai is far from you, allowing you to fully embrace the rugged beauty of nature. At the various viewpoints, I really had to call myself to a halt from time to time to take in all the impressions. Jebel Jais undoubtedly leaves an indelible impression on you, at least on me!
The best activities to do in Jebel Jais, Ras al-Khaimah
Jebel Jais is the place for those who love a huge boost of adrenaline, but also for those who like to immerse themselves in the peace and serenity of nature. Wondering what you can do in Jebel Jais? These are our tips!
1. Jais Flight - the longest zipline in the world
Are you ready for an adventure to remember? Then the Jais Flight, the longest zipline in the world, the ultimate bucket list experience on Jebel Jais. The zipline is a whopping 2.83 kilometers long where you race along the rugged mountain landscapes of the Hadji Mountains at speeds of up to 160 km/hr. Incredibly cool and so incredibly exciting. Especially the moment when you are suspended in the air before being released. It really feels like flying, with the wind in your face and a view that leaves you speechless.
The moment you stand on the platform, packed and all, is quite an experience in itself. You look out over the endless mountains and literally feel the adrenaline rush through your body. And then you are strapped in, everything is double-checked, camera goes on and then it's time. High time to horizontally watch the ground disappear beneath you and fly through the air like a bird so free. The excitement and euphoria when both feet are back on the ground is a feeling that will stay with you for a very long time. At least it is for me.
Tip: Make sure you wear comfortable clothes and wear closed shoes.
You can book the Jais Flight on site at the visitor center, here you will also find restaurant 1484 by Puro about which more later. Want to be sure of a spot? Then of course you can also book online. The cost for a ride on the longest zipline in the world is 370 AED per person, which is about 95 EUR. This includes footage from a camera attached to your helmet.
2. The Bear Grylls Explorers Camp.
For the adventurous among us, it is nice to know that in the mountains of Ras al-Khaimah you can find the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp finds. A place where adventure and learning survival skills take center stage. You will learn techniques straight from Bear Grylls' own survival guide. The camp offers a variety of activities, from daytime activities to overnight stays in nature. Think Via Ferrata, abseiling, climbing, hiking and so much more.
3. Jais Sledder - an alpine toboggan run
If when you think of a toboggan run you immediately think of snow-covered mountains, you are really wrong. Because for a toboggan run you can also just be on Jebel Jais. The Jais Sledder is a 1,840-meter alpine toboggan run with spectacular views. You can reach speeds of up to 40 mph. The best part? That's that you decide how fast you go, at full speed or with the brakes on in the curves. It's totally up to you!
The moment you step into the sled, raise your belt, you feel the thrill. Although this tension cannot be compared to the thrill of the zipline, you still feel the adrenaline coursing through your body. The course of the Jais Sledder winds with sharp turns over the rugged mountain landscape. It's incredibly fun and laughter, as well as screaming along the way, is guaranteed. Once down, you'll definitely want to do it again!
A single ride in the Jais Sledder costs 50 AED per person, about 13 EUR. You can buy a ticket on the spot.
4. Dining at restaurant 1484 by Puro
All that excitement makes you hungry, and a very nice place to fill your belly with good food and good drink is restaurant 1484 by Puro. And with a location at 1,484 meters above sea level, this restaurant is the highest located restaurant in the United Arab Emirates. So a unique spot! From the terrace you have a view of the top of Jebel Jais, where you can also spot the departure platform of the zipline.
The restaurant is a popular spot on Jebel Jais and you can only come here if you have a reservation, so keep this in mind. The menu consists of a mix of international and local dishes of which the pokebowl is my favorite. Not a very exotic choice, but incredibly tasty.
5. Book a unique stay at Camp 1770
For the ultimate outdoor adventure, you need to be at Camp 1770 are. The site of this camping area is located very close to the border of Oman (Musandam) on Mount Jebel Jais, and as you might guess at an altitude of 1,770 meters above sea level. Because of the altitude, you are often above the clouds here, allowing you to enjoy amazing sunsets and very bright starry skies. At Camp 1770 you can spend the night in the middle of the mountains. It is a place to completely unwind and enjoy the spectacular views. Keep in mind that you cannot just book a night here. This is by request, through the mail. They are mainly retreats held here and stays are longer than one night.
The campground is minimalist in design to respect the natural environment, but offers everything for a comfortable stay. Bringing your own tent is an option, but you can also rent one. The place to be, of course, is around the campfire where you can share all your travel stories with other guests.
In the mountains it can cool off at night so keep this in mind and bring a thick sweater sweater or jacket. Maybe a coat that doesn't let the wind through, because it can also be quite windy this high up in the mountains.
Practical tips for visiting Jebel Jais
In the mountains, you never quite know what to expect, so setting out well prepared is wise. Here are our most important and practical tips for visiting Jebel Jais in Ras al-Khaimah.
How to get to Jebel Jais?
Mount Jebel Jais is part of the impressive Hadji Mountains and is located in the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah. This is 1 of the 7 emirates and is located the emirate of Dubai. You can reach Ras al-Khaimah fastest and easiest from Dubai. For example, it is less than an hour's drive from the airport and you are already in the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah. Want to go to the mountain peak of Jebel Jais? Then the best way to reach it is by car. A rental car can be arranged prior to your trip via SunnyCars and possibly pick it up already at the Dubai airport so you have the freedom to go wherever you want during your trip.
When you book your trip to Ras al-Khaimah through us, we will always include a rental car in the offer. The rental car is always on an all-inclusive service basis, which is nice when you're on the road!
What is the best time to visit Jebel Jais?
The ideal time to visit Jebel Jais is between the months of October and April, when the temperature in the mountains is pleasant. In fact, in summer it can get very hot here, even in the mountains.
I personally always find a great time to be in the mountains around sunrise and sunset. This time I was at sunset on a high point of Jebel Jais. Watching the setting sun was a magical sight from the mountains.
What's best to bring?
Good preparation is half the battle. Make sure you have the following items with you:
Comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes for hiking and the activities;
Sunscreen and sunglasses;
Water and snacks - there are places to eat along the way, but it is always handy to have something with you;
A camera - those amazing views must be captured!
Reasons why Jebel Jais should be on your bucket list
If the above information, tips and activities haven't convinced you yet to put Jebel Jais on your bucket list, here are some more motivating reasons:
A visit to Jebel Jais goes hand in hand with rugged nature, adventure and unique vistas. Perfect for a day trip from the desert or from the coast;
Where else can you drive along one of the most spectacular mountain roads in the United Arab Emirates?
You can zipline in a lot of places around the world, but with the zipline in Jebel Jais, you've got the most extraordinary one;
Jebel Jais is not only place to challenge yourself, it is also a place that will make you inspired!
Jebel Jais is one of the highlights of Ras al-Khaimah, so you must have seen that one!
In short, whether you come to Jebel Jais for a boost of adrenaline, tranquility or simply to experience the feeling of freedom. You'll find it all there!
Your bucket list journey through the Emirates
Are you ready for a unique travel experience in the Emirates? We would love to help you plan your bucket list trip to perfection! Let us know what your needs and interests are, and we'll put together a personalized travel proposal for you. From adventure activities in the desert to luxury resorts and cultural hotspots, your dream trip through the Emirates starts here!
Lois Weeterings
A dreamer and adventure seeker, always on the lookout for new experiences. But also a hard worker with a thousand ideas racing through my mind. As a personal travel consultant and travel blogger, I share my passion for faraway destinations, thrilling adventures, and winter sports. With deep knowledge of places like Namibia, Colombia, the ABC Islands, and the Middle East, I’m here to help you craft a trip you’ll never forget. Through my personal stories and expert tips, I aim to inspire you to explore the world your way. Always with my camera in hand, I’m determined to capture every magical moment and share it with you.
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