10 Things to Do In Jebel Jais
A visit to the UAE can be rewarding for you in more ways than one. Many would consider Dubai to be associated with only architectural brands, a plethora of shopping opportunities in massive malls, and literally unending gaming zones & amusement park enjoyment.
But hey! UAE is not only about Dubai. And neither is UAE only about artificial attractions. There is a whole lot of natural scenic beauties in UAE that will take your breath away for sure. Beaches, deserts, mountains – the options are plentiful. And talking of mountains, a visit to UAE can never be complete without spending at least a day in the Jebel Jais Mountains.
Located on the eastern border of Ras Al Khaimah – one of the seven emirates of the UAE – the Jebel Jais is a mountain peak that is more than 70 million years old. It is a part of the cloud-kissing Hajar mountain range. It extends up to the Musandam Peninsula in northeastern Oman.
With an elevation of almost 2000 meters, this peak serves as the perfect destination for a host of adrenaline-pumping activities. They will put your mental & physical toughness to test. But at the same time, they will also offer loads of fun. Without spending any further time, let’s explore the top 10 things to do in Jebel Jais.
1. Jebel Jais Flight
Welcome to the world’s longest zipline – right here in Jebel Jais. With a length of almost 3 km, this zipline is equivalent to almost 30 football pitches in terms of length. You would be suspended to the line at a height of almost 1700 meters from the earth. And you would swirl down the line, while being securely fastened, at breakneck speeds of up to 150 km/hr! During the Jebel Jais flight you can enjoy the breathtaking bird’s-eye views of the Hajar Mountains, with its massive peaks & deep ravines. For adrenaline junkies, this is as good as it can get.
2. Jais Sky Tour
From one zipline to a series of them – that’s what the Jais Sky Tour is. You would zip-zap-zoom from one platform to another, covering lengths of 340 meters to 1 km. it’s an aerial tour of the mountain where you take in breathtaking views of the entire area. You would zip along at speeds of close to 60 mph. Covering over 5 km in this stunning location, the Sky Tour would also take you to UAE’s highest bridge which is located more than 1200 meters above sea level.
3. Trekking
Hiking & trekking enthusiasts are going to love these opportunities at Jebel Jais. There are various hiking trails all over the mountain, ranging from easy to moderately difficult. At every stage of the hike, you would be in close proximity to the delicate mountain ecosystem and get to know more about local flora & fauna. Over 16 km of hiking trails here would ensure that you end up thoroughly exploring the geography – and getting a lot of enjoyment in the process.
4. Jais Sledder
At a length of almost 900 meters, the Jebel Jais Sledder is the longest toboggan ride in the region. This alpine coaster is comfortably placed on a low-slung track and runs down the mountain slope at speeds of almost 40 km. You would cover almost 1900 meters of thrill-filled tracks, complete with hairpin bends and uneven tracks. For close to 10 minutes, it’s pure adrenaline bliss.
5. Cycling at Jebel Jais
Something more for fitness enthusiasts – and cycling lovers as well. The wonderfully-maintained cycling tracks at Jebel Jais allow for nice opportunities to explore the mountains in a short time, while also getting some much-needed physical exercise. However, UAE’s tallest mountain will put your stamina & determination to the test with its rugged topography. Gather your physical & mental faculties together – and overcome the challenge, while also enjoying the supremely beautiful natural scenery in the process.
6. Jebel Jais Via Ferrata
Via Ferrata means “iron path” in Italian. This activity is a perfect mix of adventure, thrill, and enjoyment. Here, you would take part in climbing activities across over a kilometer of the mountain. You would be doing a combination of climbing, ziplining, hiking, and walking. There are 3 ziplines here, measuring 50, 60, and 300 meters in length. So, for over 4 hours, this adrenaline-pumping intense physical activity would provide moment after moment filled with pulsating joy & thrill.
7. Views from the Top of Jebel Jais
Be it day or night, the views from atop UAE’s highest point is mind-blowing, to say the least. You can take binoculars & telescopes on rent here – and treat yourself to the most spectacular views of the countryside all around the mountains – including the distant peaks on the various arms of the mountain system, the undulating wadis, villages, and the Persian Gulf. Grab the photo opportunities here – you won’t get too many of such stunning opportunities elsewhere!
8. Jais Rope Course
Welcome to the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp at Jebel Jais. Here, for over an hour, you would be taking part in a bridge & two-level rope course that would make your knees tremble, for sure! at more than 10 meters above the ground, you would be negotiating rickety bridges, swinging loops, crawl tunnels, and extremely narrow bicycle links. Available for both kids & adults (with accordingly-adjusted levels of difficulty), the Jais Rope Course is an intensely challenging obstacle course that also promises loads of fun.
9. Jebel Jais Ice Rink
Sounds unbelievable? But it’s true. At almost 1300 meters above the ground, the Ice Rink is located in the Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park. This skating activity can be enjoyed by any & everyone above the age of 3 years. More enjoyable in the summer months, the rink seems like a small piece of the Poles amidst the dry mountains all around. Skate here for as long as you want – and let the cooling sensation overcome you.
10. Something for Your Taste Buds
All that hiking, climbing, cycling, and walking has made you ravenous, for sure. Don’t worry – help is right here! head for the various snack joints here – small, but extremely effective. The Puro Express will wow you with its array of pizzas, pastries, and salads. Then, head for the Muse Café for some delicious smoothies, chocolate coffee, cappuccino, and the like. Once you are rejuvenated, head back for some more action – or leave for your hotel, with a satiated body & mind.
Getting to Jebel Jais
The best way is to get hold of a self-driven vehicle on rent from Dubai. it’s a distance of almost 140 km from the city to Jebel Jais. The GPS facility will be handy to bring you here. Alternatively, you can book a chauffeur-driven cab/car and reach the destination.
Points to Keep in Mind While Visiting Jebel Jais
- Keep warm clothes with you as the temperature will keep dropping as you reach higher up into the mountain.
- If you are driving down to Jebel Jais yourself, ensure that your car is in the best driving conditions.
- Jebel Jais tends to get pretty crowded during weekends & the cooler months (November to March). If you are visiting during these times, prepare to stand in queues for getting to the rides.
- Wear comfortable clothing & climbing/hiking shoes.
- People with heart disease or a fear of heights are advised against visiting the mountains.
- There are Many More Natural Spots Around Dubai to Cover And Visit During your time in Dubai.
