Stretching over rugged terrain, the Hajar Mountains challenge you with their fierce, sharply etched ridges and whispering winds. Hiking across this range toward Jebel Jais—the UAE’s highest peak—offers more than just a physical climb; it’s an engagement with a landscape that demands respect and rewards with sweeping views that trap the sun and shadows in a dance across the jagged stones.

The trek begins in Ras Al Khaimah, where the foothills open into a world of contrasts: dry wadis daring you to cross, stony paths that test your footing, and pockets of juniper and acacia trees that breathe a stubborn green against the harsh rock palate. The typical hiking route to Jebel Jais covers about 20 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of roughly 1,900 meters, climbing from around 650 meters altitude at the base to nearly 1,934 meters at the summit.

Underfoot, the terrain shifts from gravel and scree to sections paved in rough slab stone, each step demanding care but inviting steady pace. The mountain itself moves with the morning light—parts shimmer with cool blue-gray shadows before exposure to the blazing midday sun. You’ll want sturdy, grippy footwear to keep control on occasional loose sections and trekking poles to steady the balance.

Hydration is non-negotiable here. The arid mountain air draws moisture from your skin and quickens fatigue. Aim to carry at least three liters of water, supplemented by electrolyte replacements and frequent rests in shaded spots where the twisted branches offer brief refuge. Timing your hike to start early—before sunrise if possible—limits heat exposure and opens the day with crisp mountain air, sharpening your senses for the wildlife and scenic surprises that reveal themselves.

From the summit of Jebel Jais, the Arabian Gulf gleams far below, its horizon stretched wide and patient. The vast desert plains lie subdued beneath you, a quiet contrast to the mountain’s sharp angles and rugged peaks. Clouds often gather on the ridge, brushing the rocks with cool mist that lifts the temperature and silences the world.

Though the climb is physically demanding, the Hajar Mountains remain fiercely themselves rather than something to conquer—they shift with sudden weather and steep drops, keeping each step purposeful. Surround yourself with their powerful stillness, and you leave with something more than photographs; it’s an experience that roots you in the raw energy of the UAE’s highlands and invites you back for another ascent.