Jais Northern Expedition: Ghalilah to Shah via Summit
This route is ECC Adventures' flagship opening leg of the Trans Emirates Trail and one of the toughest single-day expeditions in the UAE. Starting deep in Wadi Ghalilah, famous for its dramatic cliffs and ravines, the route climbs the right bank of the Stairway to Heaven before pushing onto the high ridges of Jebel Jais, the tallest mountain in the UAE.
Along the way, trekkers traverse ancient Julphar trade paths, pass shepherd hamlets, and cross towards Wadi Shah. A highlight of the Ghalilah to Shah via Summit trail is reaching the Hidden Oasis plateau with its timeless views over the Northern Hajar, before dropping towards the foothills near the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp.
Reserve your spot with us at ECC Adventures for this advanced hike that is part our of the Challenger Expedition series, created for the high-flyers of our commmunity.
Hike participation is strictly limited to advanced hikers and reserved for our Challenger Expedition members or via invite only.
Difficulty: Expedition Level 5/5
Key Highlights:
- 1 day expedition
- Segment 1 of ECC Adventures' flagship Trans Emirates Trail
- Wadi Ghalilah: Steep-walled gorge known as the “Grand Canyon of Ras Al Khaimah.”
- Stairway to Heaven (Right Bank): Infamous ascent with panoramic views into Oman and the UAE.
- Jebel Jais: Summit ridges of the UAE’s highest mountain.
- Julphar Routes: Echoes of ancient traders and shepherd trails crossing the Northern Hajar.
- Wadi Shah & Hidden Oasis: Fertile plateau tucked high in the mountains, a rare green contrast.
- Bear Grylls Explorers Camp: Expedition winds down near this landmark site at Jebel Jais.
Ghalilah to Shah via Summit is NOT for beginners and is strictly for experienced and seasoned hikers: it demands excellent conditioning, navigation confidence, and resilience. But those who complete it will experience the UAE’s mountains at their most raw and awe-inspiring conditions.
- 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).
