JournalJebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah: The Mountain Road and Hiking Guide
In short: Jebel Jais is in the north-western Hajar range, spanning Ras Al Khaimah and Oman's Musandam. A 36 km road winds up the UAE side; the summit at 1,934 m is on the Omani side, with the UAE's highest point at 1,892 m nearby.
Quick facts
| Starting point | Ras Al Khaimah city |
|---|---|
| Emirate | Ras Al Khaimah |
| Summit | 1,934 m (Omani side); UAE's highest point 1,892 m |
| Road | 36 km of hairpin bends on the UAE side |
| Zip-line | Opened Feb 2018; 2,832 m |
| Climate | About ten degrees cooler than most of the UAE; snow recorded in 2009, 2017, 2020 |
The road
The 36 km road winds in many hairpins to parking, food, toilets and a viewing platform. Beyond a checkpoint the road to the zip-line area was closed to public motor vehicles as of December 2019, so check current access.
Weather
Ras Al Khaimah is generally cooler, and the highest parts of the mountain run about ten degrees cooler than most of the country. Winter lows near -5 C have been recorded on the summit. Snow has fallen at least three times (2009, 2017, 2020).
Hiking
The summit can reportedly be reached on foot past a private palace fence, but that is private land; do not enter without permission. Carry layers and water, and check conditions.
Desert and wadi safety
- Tell someone your route and return time, and carry more water than you expect to need.
- Carry a charged phone, a power bank and offline maps; mobile coverage can drop in deserts and mountains.
- Travel with at least two vehicles on remote tracks, and know how to lower tyre pressure and recover a stuck vehicle before you go.
- Avoid wadis and low ground when rain is forecast anywhere upstream; see wadi flash flood safety.
- Summer heat is dangerous. Plan outdoor trips for the cooler months; see the best season for outdoor travel.
Check before you go
This is a researched guide, not legal, medical or safety advice. UAE rules, permits, fees, opening hours and closures change and can differ by emirate, so confirm with the official tourism authority, municipality or police before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Jebel Jais?
The summit is 1,934 m on the Omani side; the UAE's highest point is 1,892 m.
Does it snow?
Snow has fallen at least three times, in 2009, 2017 and 2020.
Is the zip-line the longest?
It was described as the world's longest at 2,832 m when it opened in 2018.
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Read nextRules, closures, fees and conditions change. Confirm with the relevant authority before you travel, and treat this guide as planning help, not a substitute for local advice.