The Ghaf Summit Trail (Upper Section) sits at 1640 meters above sea levels, the top most trail of Jebel Jais, Ras al Khaimah, UAE's highest peak!
The trail provides you viewpoints of both skirts of the mountain: the breathtaking valley, snaking highway and adventure attractions to the south, and the coastline of the Arabian Gulf to the North. Adventurers are rewarded with this panoramic view with only having to complete a beginner to moderate climb to enjoy the top!
The journey begins with a gradual ascent, as hikers depart from the Jais Viewing Deck Park. As the trail progresses, the incline becomes more pronounced, presenting a steady ascent mixed in both stairs and trail. Throughout the climb, vistas of the surrounding Hajar Mountains and the sweeping expanse of the desert below serve as constant companions, inspiring contemplation and astonishment for the natural splendour of the UAE's highest peak. The final summit has two trail markers to take photographs as proof that you’ve summited this short but savoury conquest!
Fun Facts: The construction of the road on Jebel Jais presented immense challenges due to the rugged terrain and remote location. Initiated in 2005 with an initial three-year timeframe, the project extended to eight years due to unforeseen difficulties and governmental decisions halting construction for two years. Yaghoub Alipour Vaezi and his team from General Mechanic Company, supported by Volvo CE equipment provided by FAMCO, undertook the daunting task. Accessing the site proved perilous, with narrow, rough tracks and sheer drops. Despite facing extreme weather conditions and logistical challenges, Volvo's machinery, the successful partnership between Volvo and FAMCO proved vital in accomplishing this iconic project in September 2019.
Sunset Hike
- 3:00 PM: Meet at Viewing Deck Parking at the top of Jebel Jais
- 3:30 PM: Begin hike
- 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Finish Hike (will be dark by 6 PM, headlamps needed)
Some incline, uneven terrain, exposure to heights, slippery trail sections, hazardous species.
[Beginners add 2, Experienced hikers subtract 2 to difficulty]
N.B. Itinerary details serve as a guide only and is subject to change due to seasonality variations experienced the UAE. Meet up times corresponding to each event can be found under Upcoming Dates below and will be confirmed at least 24 hours before the start of the hike.
- Experienced and certified mountain guide (English speaking)
- Outdoor education, Assistant Guide/s
- First Aid
- Hat
- Backpack
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- 1-2 liters of water (DEC – MAR) | 2-3 liters of water (for the rest of the months).
- Salted snacks and/or fruit for a few hours of hiking with a little extra.
- Hiking boots or trainers with good grip/not worn out.
- Shorts or comfortable hiking pants/leggings.
- T-shirt light pullover for sun protection/warmth in the morning/evening.
- Trekking poles (optional to help with balance or mitigate fatigue).
