Part of the Hajar range, Jebel Jais (1934m) is the highest peak in the UAE. Its steep slopes, deep canyons and sea of peaks offer some of the most mesmerizing views in the country, and are also a playground for thrill seekers who come to ride the world’s longest zip line, camp overnight in the desert and hike remote trails.
Jais Flight
After viewing the staggering scenery from the 1252m Viewing Deck Park (use the powerful binoculars here), feel the rush of soaring like a bird over the Hajar range at an elevation of 1680m. The world's longest zip line (visitjebeljais.com; from Dhs399) reaches speeds of up to 150km/h and measures just under 3km. It's closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Jais Sky Tour
Slightly further down the mountain are Jais Sky Tour's six zip lines with a series of shorter (the longest being 1km) but no less thrilling rides connecting to different points on the mountain for different perspectives of the landscape (rakzipline.com; from Dhs399).
Hiking
Jebel Jais is covered with walking paths, ranging from easy 1km to 2km lower-level trails to multi-day changing trails at elevation. Two of the most popular are the Mysterious Wadi loop (around four hours) and the Hidden Oasis trail (four hours of gradual gain). Both hikes start near the Bear Grylls Adventure Camp (beargryllscamp.ae). Walking guides can be booked for Dhs90 for the first hour, and Dhs45 for every hour thereafter. Downloadable trail maps are available at visitjebeljais.com.
