Ras Al Khaimah, known as the adventure hub of the Middle East, offers an array of exhilarating attractions that make it the ultimate destination for adventure seekers.
From the world’s longest zipline to survival courses by Bear Grylls and internationally renowned hiking experiences, Ras Al Khaimah has firmly established itself as a top choice for those seeking an epic adventure holiday. In this article, we delve into the top reasons why you should pick Ras Al Khaimah for your next thrilling outdoor escapade.
The adventure tourism market is on the rise, with projections showing exponential growth. In line with this trend, Ras Al Khaimah has transformed its highest peak, Jebel Jais, into a standalone tourism offering, featuring a series of exciting projects that have made it the adventure hub of the Middle East. Emphasizing sustainability, these attractions provide guests with a chance to experience the breathtaking mountainous terrain without harming the local ecosystem.
Unparalleled Experiences at Jais Adventure Park
Jais Adventure Park offers a unique and thrilling outdoor experience, and the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp takes it to another level. Guests can stay overnight in recycled and redesigned cabins nestled within the mountain.
The camp offers exhilarating courses run by experts from the Bear Grylls Survival Academy, including lessons on wilderness survival, fire-making, navigation techniques, and more. Activities like archery, rock climbing, abseiling, and a challenging ropes course suspended 10 meters above the ground provide additional thrills.
Soaring through the Skies with Jais Flight
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Jais Flight awaits at the cloud-piercing Jebel Jais. Spanning an incredible 2.83km, equivalent to over 28 football fields, this zipline lets adventurers soar at a height of 1,680 meters above sea level, reaching speeds of 120kph to 160kph. It’s an adventure of a lifetime that will leave you breathless and exhilarated.
For those preferring a more scenic experience, the Jais Sky Tour is the perfect choice. Comprising six ziplines high above the grand cliffs and canyons of Jebel Jais, this tour is connected by nine platforms and a 15m-long sky bridge – the highest of its kind in the UAE.
Thrilling Rides and Highest Campsite at Jebel Jais
Adjacent to the Jais Adventure Centre, visitors can enjoy the region’s longest toboggan ride, the thrilling Jais Sledder. With speeds of up to 40kph, the ride takes you through the stunning slopes of Hajar Mountain, offering hairpin curves and undulating whirls over a distance of 1,840 meters.
For a fully immersive mountain experience, visitors can stay at Camp 1770 – the highest campsite in the UAE, located 1,770 meters above sea level. The camp offers stunning 180-degree panoramic views of the Hajar Mountain range. Guests can partake in various programs, including a Wellness Camp, which features yoga on the peak, well-being talks around the bonfire, and sunset meditation.
Internationally Renowned Hiking Experiences
Ras Al Khaimah boasts the most developed hiking trail network in the UAE, with 80km on Jebel Jais. The ‘HIGHLANDER‘ hiking experience, organized by the only certified international hiking association, draws adventurers from around the world for a two- or three-day hike based on their experience and fitness levels.
Aligned with Ras Al Khaimah’s vision of becoming a sustainable tourism leader, HIGHLANDER emphasizes preserving and protecting nature. The adventure challenge encourages participants to minimize their impact on the environment while enjoying the great outdoors and learning about ecology and sustainability.
Future Sustainable Attractions and Lodges
In the near future, adventure enthusiasts can take flight with Jais Wings, the region’s first dedicated paragliding site in the GCC. This thrilling experience allows participants to take off from the top of Jebel Jais for an unforgettable paragliding adventure.
New for 2024, Saij offers 70 luxury lodges for a pure mountain retreat focusing on nature, mindfulness, and creativity. Basecamp Jais will provide affordable accommodation for outdoor enthusiasts, while Jais Yard will feature a variety of food options, retail containers, and children’s play areas. Cloud7 Camp Jebel Jais will offer the ultimate glamping experience with 30 sustainable accommodation units.
Conclusion
Ras Al Khaimah, with its diverse array of thrilling attractions, has firmly positioned itself as the adventure hub of the Middle East. From the world’s longest zipline to survival courses and internationally renowned hiking experiences, this Emirate has something to offer every adventure enthusiast. With its commitment to sustainability and future developments, Ras Al Khaimah promises to captivate the hearts of thrill-seekers worldwide for years to come.