Jebel Jais Mountain Road
A switchback road up Jebel Jais, the highest peak in the UAE, climbing about 30 km from the Ras Al Khaimah plain to nearly 1,900 m through the barren rock walls of the Hajar Mountains.
Jebel Jais Mountain Road leads to Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest peak. The main summit (about 1,934 m) lies on the Omani side, and the highest point within the UAE is about 1,892 m. From Ras Al Khaimah city, drive east for about 40 minutes to the foot of the mountain, then climb about 30 km of paved switchbacks to a viewpoint area at about 1,900 m. Along the way, dozens of hairpin bends wind through bare limestone slopes, and many spots have viewpoints overlooking deep valleys and the distant Arabian Gulf. On the mountain are Jais Flight, one of the world's longest zip lines, high-altitude sledding, a cliff-edge restaurant, and a campsite. The observation platforms are good places to watch the sunset and the sea of clouds in winter. This road is popular with car enthusiasts and cyclists in the UAE. It can be combined with Dhayah Fort, the Jazirat al-Hamra ghost town, and the Marjan Island beaches for a one- to two-day trip. The summit is much cooler than the coast, so bring a jacket in winter. The road has speed limits and speed checks, so use low gears on the descent. Supplies and services on the mountain are limited, so fill up with fuel in Ras Al Khaimah before you set out.