Colossal limestone ranges of Ras Al Khaimah’ Mountainous Region, Wadi Koob is a captivating region renowned for its imposing mountainous terrain, just 40 kilometers away from the city center. This area is home to various northern Emirati families, with the Al Mazari tribe being one of the most prominent.
The picturesque plain areas of Wadi Koob come to life, particularly during the rainy seasons, as the wadis bloom with vibrant wildflowers and aromatic herbs. This natural spectacle makes it an ideal destination for trekking the valleys and summits.
Wadi Koob is renowned for being one of the largest valleys in the region, extending from Najd Dabaa of the cliffs to the Al-Muraybi area at the Al-Tawain roundabout. Its length spans 35 kilometers and reaches Al-Kharran and Al-Digdaqa. The surrounding areas within the region include Al-Saft, the Layl region, Wadi Al-Badi, Al-Shuwaygah, and more.
Wadi Koob has a rich history as an agriculturally fertile region with numerous fields in its upper reaches. In recent years, it has seen infrastructural development, including the construction of a substantial dam, to harness its water resources. Wadi Kub showcases remarkable tectonic uplift, revealing a stratigraphic column that extends over the Triassic-Jurassic boundary, dating back 200 million years. Fossils are abundant, reflecting a period of mass extinction.
The area around Wadi Koob has a rich tribal history, primarily belonging to the Naqbiyin tribe, from which it derives its name. However, over time, members of the Habus tribe acquired the land, primarily through agricultural endeavors and livestock raising.
Wadi Kub is a popular hiking destination in the Hajar Mountains of Ras Al Khaimah. It offers outstanding natural beauty but is also known for its challenging terrain. Unwary hikers have often required rescue missions by emergency services, especially during violent flash floods that can occur in the winter month, making the area a place to consider professional guides when hiking longer stretches.
- 6:00 AM: Meet at the ENOC|1444|Ras al Khaimah gas station
- 7:00 AM: Convoy to the beginning of Jebel Yanas, park sedans, drive the off road to begin the trek
- 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Finish Hike
Steady ascent, slippery areas, length of the trail, sun exposure, loose rocks, 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).
