Ras Al Khaimah invites you to embrace its most exciting outdoor season
From the heights of Jebel Jais to pristine beaches and desert adventures, the emirate promises an unforgettable experience
RAS AL KHAIMAH: With cooler weather sweeping across the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah has unveiled its most exhilarating outdoor season, inviting residents and visitors alike to connect with nature through a rich variety of experiences.
The emirate, known as the UAE’s adventure capital, invites visitors to immerse themselves in its extraordinary natural landscapes—towering mountains, sprawling deserts, and pristine beaches.
Whether you’re seeking a pulse-pounding zipline ride, a tranquil hike through wadis, or a luxurious desert dining experience, Ras Al Khaimah promises something unique for every adventurer.
Explore Jebel Jais: UAE’s Crown Jewel
At the heart of Ras Al Khaimah’s outdoor experiences lies Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE. This season, the expanded 94-kilometre hiking trail network offers paths suited to all skill levels. Families can explore front-country trails near developed areas, while seasoned adventurers can tackle rugged back-country routes through untouched wilderness.
The new Jebel Jais Rim Trail stands out as a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts. This 40-kilometre loop combines breathtaking views of the Hajar mountain range with glimpses of coastal mangroves. Panoramic balcony walks, ridge trails, and options for multi-day treks make it a true outdoor paradise.
For added convenience, a new digital trail navigation map helps visitors plan their hikes, offering flexibility and safety through route customisation and detailed terrain information. Clear signage along the trails ensures that explorers can confidently immerse themselves in the spectacular scenery.
Beyond hiking, Jebel Jais brims with adrenaline-pumping adventures. Thrill-seekers can ride Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline spanning 2.83 kilometres, or navigate six ziplines connected by suspended platforms on the Jais Sky Tour. Families can enjoy the Jais Sledder, the region’s longest toboggan ride, offering fun-filled downhill thrills.
For those seeking a challenge, the Via Ferrata combines rock climbing with mountaineering, while the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp adds a unique twist with survival courses, archery, and axe-throwing. Adventurati Outdoor’s UAE Summit Challenge Series at Camp 1770 provides another opportunity to conquer the peaks and connect with nature.
Wadis and Cycling adventures
Ras Al Khaimah’s mountain adventures extend beyond Jebel Jais. Wadi Showka, located in the southern part of the emirate, features a 10-kilometre hiking trail that winds through natural pools and stunning landscapes. The area is also becoming a hotspot for mountain biking, with 16.5 kilometres of signed trails and additional paths built by the local cycling community.
February 2025 will bring the return of the HIGHLANDER Adventure, a globally renowned hiking event with challenges like the three-day 40-kilometre Pegasus trek. These routes not only showcase the region’s natural beauty but also its cultural heritage, with trails passing ancient settlements and working farms.
Sun, Sand, and Sea
Stretching along 64 kilometres of unspoiled coastline, Ras Al Khaimah’s beaches offer both relaxation and adventure. Luxury resorts, budget-friendly stays, and unique glamping experiences provide a variety of options for every traveller.
At Longbeach Campground, visitors can enjoy beachfront safari tents, panoramic dome suites, and outdoor movie nights by an infinity pool. For a vibrant, laid-back vibe, Banan Beach offers colourful chalets and cosy tepees perfect for families and friends seeking a blend of comfort and fun.
The coast also provides exciting ways to explore the waters. The Yellow Boats offers guided tours starting at Dh149, giving visitors stunning views of landmarks like Marjan Island and Al Hamra Waterfront. Those seeking an aerial perspective can head to the Jazirah Aviation Club, which offers microlight flights over the Hajar Mountains, desert dunes, and serene coastline.
For a cultural experience, the Suwaidi Pearls Tour delves into the UAE’s pearling history. Situated in the tranquil Al Rams mangroves, this floating pearl farm provides live demonstrations of traditional harvesting techniques, blending history with the beauty of nature.
Dive into History and Art
History meets contemporary art at Al Jazeera Al Hamra, a historic coastal village transforming into a vibrant cultural hub each February. The Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival showcases art installations, live performances, and open-air galleries within the coral-stone alleys of the 18th-century settlement. Visitors can walk through illuminated streets while engaging with creative works from around the globe, making it an unmissable event for art and history lovers.
Desert Dreams
The vast deserts of Ras Al Khaimah hold adventures that combine nature and luxury. At the Al Wadi Nature Reserve, visitors can enjoy camel treks, falconry displays, and guided wildlife drives to spot Arabian Oryx and gazelles roaming the golden dunes. For a truly unique experience, the ActionFlight Hot Air Balloon offers panoramic views of the desert at sunrise, creating unforgettable memories.
Gastronomy enthusiasts are in for a treat this season. The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert hosts a Zuma pop-up restaurant, where guests can savour contemporary Japanese dishes like miso-marinated black cod while taking in the desert vistas. Adding to the culinary delights, Farmhouse by Syrco, led by two-Michelin-starred chef Syrco Bakker, serves farm-to-table creations that celebrate local ingredients in a rustic yet refined setting.
For those seeking immersive experiences, Sonara Camp blends fine dining with entertainment under the stars. Guests can enjoy live music, traditional dances, and gourmet cuisine surrounded by the serene beauty of the Al Wadi Desert.
Why Ras Al Khaimah stands out
Ras Al Khaimah is not just about adventure—it’s a destination that harmoniously blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and luxurious experiences. The emirate’s commitment to sustainability and safety ensures that visitors can enjoy these offerings responsibly and with peace of mind.
With its expansive landscapes, diverse activities, and warm hospitality, Ras Al Khaimah is the ultimate destination for nature enthusiasts, culture seekers, and thrill lovers alike.
Plan Your Visit
This season promises a truly unforgettable experience in Ras Al Khaimah. Whether it’s hiking the scenic trails of Jebel Jais, basking on its pristine beaches, or indulging in gourmet desert dining, the emirate’s outdoor playground has something special for everyone.
Take advantage of this perfect weather and discover why Ras Al Khaimah is the UAE’s premier destination for outdoor adventure and relaxation.