Formed over 70 million years ago, the Jebel Jais mountain features the most scenic views in the region. The views of the winding road through the deep rocky canyon of the mountain is truly breathtaking and a unique experience. This is why visiting the Viewing Deck Park is the first item on your list of things to do in Jebel Jais. The Jebal Jais Viewing Deck Park has seven viewing decks with twelve binoculars that visitors can use to view the stunning valleys of the mountain which is 1,250 meters above sea level. After you're done admiring the beauty of the mountain, you can grab refreshments at Puro Express food truck. This entire park is lit by solar energy and features all the necessary facilities such as restrooms and dedicated parking spaces.
- Timings: 8 am to 8 pm on weekdays and 8 am to 11 pm on weekends.
- Price: AED 5 for entry and tariff on parking is applicable (AED 5 for motorbikes, AED 20 for cars and AED 100 for buses or vans)
2. MOUNTAIN TREKS
The next item on our list things to do in Jebel Jais is for all the thrill-seekers looking to explore the mountains in a different way. At the Jebel Jais Via Ferrata you get to experience trekking along a 1km long purpose-built climbing course that involves a combination of walking, climbing and zip lining. The entire experience lasts about four hours where you are accompanied by qualified guides throughout the course. Just remember to come dressed in the right attire - casual shoes such as Vans or Converse are not accepted; only sturdy trainers or running shoes with good grip are allowed.
- Participants should be between 12 and 65 years of age, between 50 and 100 kilos of weight
- Price: Weekdays: AED 341.25 and Weekends: AED 393.75
- Toroverde Contact: +971 50 265 6224
3. ZIPLINING ACROSS THE JEBAL JAIS VALLEYS
The ziplining across the canyons of this marvellous mountain is by far one of the best activities in Jebel Jais. You get to literally fly across the mountain at speeds of up to 150kmph over a distance 2.8km, which is equivalent to 28 football pitches! This zip line in Jebel Jais has been certified by Guinness World Records as the world's largest zip line and is a quintessential activity if you are an adrenaline junkie looking for a thrilling adventure. Pro Tip: You'll be able to get offers and discounted prices for the Jebel Jais zip line during Eid and the summertime, so keep an eye out for them.
- Price: AED 425 - AED 525
- Toroverde Contact: +971 50 265 6224
4. ICE SKATING AT THE JEBAL JAIS ICE RINK
Ever seen an ice-rink in the middle of a mountain? Well, now you can! Toroverde, which is responsible for all the attractions on Jebel Jais has recently added an ice rink to this iconic mountain. If you've ever dreamt of ice skating 1300 meters above sea level, the Jebel Jais skating rink is where you should be! It is open to adults and children above the age of 3.
- Timings: Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
- Price: AED 45 for 30 minutes skating including skate rental.
- Toroverde Contact: +971 50 265 6224
5. BARBECUING AND CAMPING
The final item on our list of things to do in Jebel Jais is of-course camping; after-all it is one the best camping spots in the UAE. There are several areas along the route of the mountain that are great for pitching a tent and setting up a barbecue. Many campers stay the night just to catch a glimpse of the rising sun over the rocky mountain. If you plan on going camping at Jebel Jais, make sure to carry enough blankets and sweaters to keep you warm, as well as enough coal and firewood. Just keep in mind that bonfires should be made in fire pits and barbecues must be done on a grill.
HOW TO GET FROM DUBAI TO JEBEL JAIS
- The best way to get from Dubai to Jebal Jais is by car. It's approximately a two-hour drive via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) from Al Khail Road(D83).
Things to keep in mind when visiting Jebel Jais
- The drive from Dubai to the Jebel Jais mountain in RAK takes approximately two hours. So make sure to fuel up and carry along snacks and drinks for the road.
- Jebel Jais is a popular spot that gathers a lot of visitors during holidays such as Eid and UAE National Day. If you are looking to skip the crowds, try visiting the mountain during off-peak times.
- Temperatures will drop significantly while driving up to the mountain, especially in the evenings. So make sure to carry enough sweaters, scarfs or beanies to keep yourself warm.
- The weather during the day is pleasant with the warmth of the sun shining through. Carrying a light sweater is advised in case of sudden cold winds.
- Closed shoes/sports shows are the ideal footwear when visiting Jebel Jais. They are also pre-requisites if you are going trekking or on the zip line.
- Facilities such as parking spots, restaurants and washrooms are present at the viewing deck, zip line and via ferrata.
- If you plan to go camping or barbecuing at Jebal Jais make sure to carry all the necessary equipment like coal and lighter fluid as you won't find supermarkets there.
- Toroverde Ras Al Khaimah is the company manages the zip line, via ferrata and ice rink. If you have made a booking for any of their attractions in Jebel Jais, just head to their dedicated parking lot 30 minutes prior to your session. From there, shuttle buses will take you to the right location.
- All the above-mentioned activities in Jebel Jais can be booked online via the official Jebel Jais website. You can also find more information on each of attractions here.
And that wraps up our guide on the best things to do in Jebal Jais! What’s your favourite activity on this list? Let us know in the comments below. If you’re looking for more things to do with friends and family, out of Dubai, here is a list of things to do in Hatta that are perfect for a long weekend.
