Mountains in the UAE: A hotspot for adventure buffs
The glitzy and glamorous cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are known for their skyscrapers, restaurants and other attractions. Similarly, the emirate of Sharjah is known for its culture and heritage, while Ras Al Khaimah is an adventure buff’s paradise. But apart from the contemporary skyscrapers and man-made attractions, UAE is home to several impressive mountain ranges. In this post, we will explore different mountains in the UAE where you can camp or enjoy a day trip away from city life.
FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE MOUNTAINS IN THE UAE
Some of the most famous mountains in the UAE, including the highest peak in the country; Jebel Jais, is located in the stunning Hajjar Mountains, Hatta Mountains, Al Faya in Sharjah and Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain. Let’s learn more about the various mountain ranges in UAE.
JEBEL JAIS
Jebel Jais a popular Ras Al Khaimah mountain, is part of the spectacular Hajjar Mountain range in UAE. Standing at an altitude of 1,934 metres, it is the highest mountain in UAE. Existing for over 70 million years, the Jebel Jais mountain features some of the most breathtaking views.
VIEWING DECK PARK
Jebel Jais stands out among the other mountains in the United Arab Emirates for its grandeur and various attractions. Considered a popular tourist attraction, visitors have plenty of things to do at Jebel Jais in RAK. Residents in Dubai and Sharjah, in particular, consider a visit to Jebel Jais as one of the best weekend attractions, especially once the temperature cools down.
The Viewing Deck Park in Jebel Jais is an ideal location to explore the mountain. With 7 viewing decks and 10 binoculars, visitors can view the scenic valleys of the mountain that is 1,250 metres above sea level.
HIKING AND ZIP LINING
Apart from the Viewing Deck Park, the Jebel Jais mountain has several other attractions including a zip line, hiking track, barbecue, camping site and restaurants. Visiting and spending a day at Jebel Jais is one of the most popular things to do in Ras Al Khaimah.
JEBEL HAFEET
The second mountain on our list is Jebel Hafeet Mountain. Visitors will be delighted to know that there are a plethora of things to do at Jebel Hafeet. Rising 1,240 metres above sea level, Jebel Hafeet is the second largest mountain in the UAE and the highest peak in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. This UAE mountain is also a part of the Hajar mountain range.
This magnificent mountain towers over Al Ain and spreads over the border to Oman. The best time to visit Jebel Hafeet is in November, December and January when the weather is pleasant. The mountains are forged out of limestone that has weathered over millions of years.
FOSSILS AT JEBEL HAFEET
Jebel Hafeet is popular for its unique fossil discoveries. Fossils as old as 5,000 years were discovered in the area. Excavations in the area indicate that the tombs at Jebel Hafeet mark the initiation of the Bronze Age in the UAE. Some of the discoveries include copper artefacts and ceramic vessels.
JEBEL HAFEET MOUNTAIN ROAD
There are two ways to get to the top. The first one is to drive all the way while the second method is for the more adventurous folks where you have to cycle your way to the top.
Either way, you have to travel through the gorgeous Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road, famous for its picture-perfect vistas. Strabag International of Cologne, Germany had built the iconic road that is a challenge for cyclists who frequently visit and train in the area.
JEBEL HAFEET DESERT PARK
The Jebel Hafeet Desert Park is home to several historical and archaeological remains that attest to the rich history of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Recognised in 2011 as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Jebel Hafeet Desert Park offers a wealth of fun activities like these.
- Biking
- Hiking
- Individual, serviced and luxury camping
- 4WD tours to explore different sections of the Desert Park and a trip to scenic spots around Jebel Hafeet
WHERE TO STAY AT JEBEL HAFEET
If you’re planning to visit, you can stay at the Mercure Jebel Hafeet Hotel.
- Location: Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Al Ain Hotel
- Contact: +971-3-704-6888
HATTA MOUNTAINS
One of the most popular mountains in Dubai, which is a part of the Hajar range is the Hatta Mountain. This gorgeous mountainous region is a part of the emirate of Dubai. Located about 105 kilometres or an hour and 30-minute drive away, this mountain retreat has a lot to offer. It’s a major part of the Hajjar Mountains as the area borders the emirate of Sharjah and Oman.
THE HATTA DAM
One of the best things to do in the Hatta mountains in the UAE is to head to the famous Hatta Dam. People from Dubai and Sharjah frequent the Hatta Dam and nearby areas for a perfect day trip or a long weekend. The Hatta Dam is inarguably one of the most tranquil regions with clear turquoise waters.
The perfectly turquoise waters of the Hatta dam are perfect for watersports such as water biking, boating, kayaking and pedal boat rides. Kayaking in Hatta is one of the most popular activities among tourists visiting the area. Refer to the prices below for different water sports at Hatta Dam.
The entry fees for kayaking in Hatta can be paid directly at the venue.
PRICES FOR KAYAK RENTAL IN HATTA – UNLIMITED
- Single Kayaks: AED 60
- Double Kayaks: AED 120
PEDAL BOATS – ONE HOUR
- Yellow Boat: AED 150
WATER BIKES – ONE HOUR
- Single Water Bike: AED 60
- Double Water Bike: AED 120
- Triple Water Bike: AED 180
ELECTRIC BOATS
- Donut Boat (One Hour): AED 300
- Tour Boat with a driver (25mins) – AED 600
- Timings: 07:00 am – 11:00 pm | 03:00 pm – 09:00 pm
- Contact: +971-56-616-2111
MOUNTAIN BIKING IN HATTA
The Hatta Mountain Bike trails are worth a visit for adventure buffs. The first of its kind in the Middle East, the Hatta MBT Centre is home to a cross-country route that has trails for all abilities. The Hatta Mountain bike trails are free to ride. You can also hire a bike from there.
- Price:
- Kids AED 45 (1 hour)
- Basic AED 65 (1 hour)
- Mid-range AED 75 (1 hour)
- Premium AED 85 (1 hour)
- Opening hours: 06:00 am – 06:00 pm
- Contact: +971-50-201-3011
WHERE TO STAY AT HATTA MOUNTAINS
Hatta mountains have several excellent hotels and other places to stay including Trailer style hotels in UAE such as the Hatta Sedr Trailers Resort by Meraas. Other places to stay are the Hatta Damani Lodges and JA Hatta Fort Hatta Hotel.
JEBEL FAYA
Jebel Faya is a limestone mountain in Sharjah and the area is famous for its rugged terrain. The mountain also has archaeological significance in the area. Take a tour of the Mlieha Archaeological Centre to explore different parts of the Jebel Faya and the nearby archaeological and historical sites.
WHERE TO STAY AT JEBEL FAYA
While visiting Jebel Faya, visitors can spend a relaxing weekend or day at the Jebel Faya Lodge away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Location: Al Batayeh – Al Faya Road Al Modam Rd., Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can we camp in the UAE mountains and valleys?
Yes, you can camp overnight in the UAE mountains if you know the area well. If you’re new, seeking assistance from a professional tour guide is essential to keep everyone safe during the camping trip. Furthermore, there are glamping and camping spots in different mountains such as Hatta Dome Park, The Retreat Camp Fujairah, Mysk Al Faya Retreat and Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Camping to name a few.
What is the best time to explore the mountains in the UAE?
The best time to explore the UAE mountains is between October and March when the weather is cooler. Avoid travelling to the valleys in heavy rains as there’s a risk of flash floods in the mountains.
That’s all for our list of mountains in the UAE. Another mountain range in the region is Jebel Dhanna in Abu Dhabi. If you wish to visit Jebel Dhanna, you can stay at the Danat resort which offers a wealth of fun and exciting activities including snorkelling, desert safari and much more. So, plan the best road trip in UAE this winter and explore what each emirate has to offer.
There are, of course, many man-made activities you can try out. For example, you can try extreme adventures in Dubai or visit one of the trampoline parks in Dubai. As a resident of the UAE, you are blessed with so many excellent options it is hard to choose.
