Today's Edition
Abu Dhabi (ALETIHAD)
The UAE’s unique mountains have become a significant tourist attraction in the country, attracting visitors from all over the world ranging from nature to sports enthusiasts.
These natural gems have come to the forefront of the fourth season of the “World’s Coolest Winter” campaign, which aims to offer a window into the UAE’s diverse ecosystems.
The eastern part of the country is home to the Hajar mountain range. The rugged mountains adorn Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Dubai’s Hatta region, rising sharply to a height of 2,000 metres.
The UAE’s 155 kilometres of mountains constitute 2.6% of the country’s total geography, separating the Sea of Oman in the east and the sand dunes of the Arabian Gulf in the west.
Thanks to the country’s dedicated efforts to develop infrastructure and enhance services, the UAE’s mountainous regions have gained immense popularity among residents and visitors from all over the world, who visit to enjoy world-class experiences in an authentic natural setting, especially during the winter season.
Jebel Jais
Ras Al Khaimah’s Jebel Jais has become one of the most famous tourist destinations in the UAE, offering year-round adventures and world-class activities. The UAE’s highest peak, soaring 1,934 metres above sea level, forms part of the spectacular cloud-piercing Hajar mountain range, and occasionally offers a rare snowfall delight during the winter.
Jebel Jais features a wide range of adrenaline-pumping experiences and nature-steeped activities from hiking to camping, while protecting its ancient geology and fascinating history. The viewing deck provides breath-taking vistas and a cool microclimate.
A particular favourite for thrill-seekers is Jais Flight, the longest zipline in the world at 2.83 kilometres, which soars across jagged mountains at 1,680 metres above the Arabian Gulf.
The Jais Sledder is the latest addition to the list of extreme sports activities on Jebel Jais, offering visitors a unique opportunity to hurtle down the Hajar mountain range in the region’s longest toboggan ride, which covers 1,840 metres at speeds of up to 40 kilometres per hour.
Jabal Yibir
Also located in Ras Al Khaimah, Jabal Yibir rises 1,527 metres above sea level, with temperatures in higher parts reaching about 10-15 degrees Celsius lower than at the bottom of the mountain. Jebel Yibir offers plenty of hiking opportunities and stunning panoramic views over Ras Al Khaimah.
Jebel Hafeet
Jebel Hafeet, Abu Dhabi’s largest peak, presents a dominating skyline at 1,249 metres high and 11.7 kilometres long. The road leading to the summit, full of hairpin turns and scenic overlooks, is widely considered one of the world’s greatest drives.
Jebel Hafeet Desert Park, another feature of the peak, is the UAE’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stone beehive-shaped Jebel Hafeet Tombs, located in the foothills of the mountain, tell a 5,000-year-old story of Al Ain’s early inhabitants.
Hatta Mountains
The Hatta Mountains comprise another majestic portion of the Al Hajar Mountain range. The Hatta Mountains house multiple nature treasures and breath-taking peaks, such as the 1,300-metre-high Um Al-Nesoor. The rugged landscape offers a series of activities, such as the hike to Hatta Dam.
The Hatta Mountain Conservation Area is home to the largest population of the endangered Arabian Tahr in the UAE. The mountains also provide refuge to many rare species of flora and fauna.
The area is an ideal spot for mountain bikers, adventurers, and nature-lovers with its craggy mountain peaks, crisp air, and untamed environment. From criss-crossing the rough terrain on a mountain bike to tackling the turquoise waters by kayak, or simply exploring the culturally rich town by foot, the area offers a verity of activities for residents and tourists alike.
Visitors can trek along the winding wadis at the foothills, and experience the varied terrain, which ranges from sandy patches to sharp rock, or hop on a mountain bike to navigate the meandering pathways of hills, wadis, and farmland. Multiple trails with clear markers serve as useful guides for beginner and advanced mountain bikers.
Khorfakkan Mountains
The mountains of Khorfakkan host Al Suhub Rest Area, a flying saucer-shaped viewpoint located almost 600 metres above sea level. The rest area has been designed with an inner hall and an outer balcony that offer a 360-degree experience over the mountainous city.
Built over an area of 10,250 square metres, the rest area was decorated with green spaces, where 8,700 trees were planted. Children can enjoy games in the play area, built over 541 square metres and surrounded by a variety of plants and trees. Al Suhub Rest Area also has 89 car parking spaces.
Nestled among the Hajar Mountains, Al Rafisah Dam is known for its charming and eye-catching beauty.
Over the crest of a hill, the dam is a picturesque site that offers a range of activities and services from restaurants to children’s play areas, making it a favourite for families.
The 730-metre-long walkway, surrounded by tall palm trees and lush greenery, make for a tranquil outdoor experience, while the trail extending to Al Suhub Rest Area serves as an outlet for keen hikers.
Jebel Al Faya
Jebel Al Faya in Sharjah, located at an altitude of 168 metres above the sea level, is a limestone mountain known for its rugged terrain. It contains tool assemblages from the Iron Age, the Bronze Age, and the Neolithic and Palaeolithic eras. The finds from excavations at Faya and surrounding digs are displayed at the Mleiha Archaeological Centre.
The mountain is surrounded by several hotels, including Mysk Moon Retreat and Al Faya Retreat by Sharjah Collection, offering a secluded getaway against the stunning backdrop of mountains and the desert.
Masfout Mountains
Masfout in Ajman has grown to be a favourite getaway with its idyllic view of Hajar mountains and vast green areas that bring cooler temperatures.
The oasis, enclosed by Hajar mountains, presents a predominantly rocky terrain, making it perfect for adventure seekers to go hiking and mountain biking.
Masfout’s cooler climate and surrounding nature makes it a particular favourite among the UAE’s peaks, with trips facilitated from Jebel Al Abyadh or Khaliban Dam.
The Masfout Hiking trail is also a well laid path, which starts nearby the Al Owais Dam and goes through the Jebel Al Abyadh, a giant mountain in Masfout area.
Masafi Mountains
The Masafi area of Fujairah is home to many beautiful mountain trails that attract hiking enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Masafi mountains embrace natural streams, grass-covered slopes, hills, and valleys, making it one of the most unique and picturesque regions of the UAE during the winter.
Hot Springs
The UAE’s mountainous terrains also boast several hot springs such as Ain Al Fayda, which streams through the green area at the base of Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain. The spring is known for its therapeutic qualities and soothing contrast between the warmth of the water and coolness of the mountain air.
The Khatt Springs, located 35 kilometres south of Ras Al Khaimah, are nestled right next to the Hajar Mountains. With temperatures of up to 40 °C, the natural hot pools are rich in minerals, and the water is famed for its relaxing and therapeutic properties.
