Imagine this: You have spent your week hunched over your laptop like a goblin, surviving on karak chais and shawarmas. Your idea of ‘exercise’ has been running late to a meeting and sprinting to the fridge for a quick bite. But somewhere between your fourth Zoom meeting and the tenth “I’ll start tomorrow”, your soul craves fresh air and scenery before you transform into a desk chair. Well, fear not, the UAE isn’t just all about skyscrapers and shopping – it’s packed with epic hiking trails that’ll make you feel like an adventurer. I’m bringing you 6 hiking trails in the UAE you absolutely can’t miss. Unless you want to keep pretending your daily step count is just from pacing in frustration. Lace up those sneakers (or sandals, no judgement), and let’s go!
1. Jebel Jais
The UAE’s tallest mountain, Jebel Jais, located in Ras Al Khaimah, is split into two hiking areas, catering to all skill levels. The lower segment features five trails ranging from the short, family-friendly trail to the more immersive trail. The upper segment offers a steeper climb, but the well-marked route helps ensure that hikers stay on track. Perseverance rewards adventurers with access to the north and south summits, where unparalleled views from the UAE’s vantage points await. Combined with amenities like the 1484 by Puro Peak restaurant and the Jebel Jais Zipline, the mountain seamlessly blends adventure with accessibility.
The hiking routes on Jebel Jais are divided into three primary zones. Find the right trail for you:
Zone A – Lower Segment Trails
Zone A is home to gentle trails perfect for families, casual hikers, or anyone looking to ease into mountain hiking.
- Farfar The (0.7km): shortest route in the zone, ideal for a peaceful nature moment.
- Samar Trail (1.2km): A short, scenic trail ideal for beginners or a relaxed walk.
- Al Teen Trail (1.6km): An accessible route that winds through low rocky terrain and native shrubs.
- Al Asbaq Trail (2.2km): A slightly more challenging trail introducing you to the mountain’s diverse plant life.
- Sidir Trail (6.0km): A longer trail that rewards hikers with varied landscapes and occasional wildlife sightings.
- Connection Trail (1.1 km): A linking route that lets hikers move between other trails in the network.
Note* – As of the latest update, trails in the Lower Segment are temporarily closed. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date access information.
Zone B – Mid-Elevation Trails
This zone climbs higher into the mountain and offers moderate hikes with extended views across the Hajar range.
- Ghaf Summit Trail (5.3km): A steady ascent through shaded areas and ridgeline walkways. Named after the resilient Ghaf tree, this trail combines a bit of a workout with exceptional lookout points.
Zone C – Upper Segment Trails
Reserved for experienced hikers, Zone C routes explore the high ridgelines and most dramatic elevations of Jebel Jais.
- Ridge Route (8.5km): This advanced trail takes you across exposed terrain with steep inclines and descents. Not for the faint of heart, but well worth the effort for serious hikers chasing solitude and stunning views. It starts and ends at the same point.
For more information, call them at +971 481 57333 or visit the Jebel Jais website.
2. Hatta
Nestled in the rugged Hajar Mountains near the Oman border, Hatta is a hiker’s paradise, where undulating peaks, winding wadis, and dramatic terrain create a landscape ripe for exploration. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll or an adrenaline-fuelled trek, Hatta’s trails cater to all ages and skill levels, offering an immersive way to experience Dubai’s largest national park. With 32.6 kilometres of marked paths across four distinct routes, Hatta’s hiking network has grown in popularity, now featuring graded trails tailored to beginners and seasoned adventurers alike. Each path unveils the region’s raw beauty, inviting you to discover its hidden gems step by step.
The hiking trail is divided into four routes. Find out which is the best for you:
Green Route (Easy)
These trails are suitable for beginners or novice walkers and runners. This route is 5 km long. It starts and ends at Hatta Wadi Hub; the initial trail leads you towards the Reem signpost and continues to Thammam. From Thamaam, you can either take Green 4 (along the wadi) or Green 3 to reach the Ja’ada signpost.
Blue Route (Moderate)
These trails are suitable for intermediate walkers and runners. The Blue Route in Hatta, specifically the one leading to the Hatta Sign, is approximately 7.28 km. The Route begins and ends at the Hatta Wadi Hub Visitor Centre. It is a loop, meaning hikers will return to the same starting point.
Red Route (Difficult)
These trails are suitable for proficient walkers and runners. The full route uses a green trail, then a red trail to reach the Hatta sign, and then a blue trail for the descent, making it 7.3 km long, whereas the direct route uses green and blue trails for the ascent and descent, totalling 5 km. The Red Route in Hatta starts and ends at Wadi Hub.
Black Route (Severe)
These trails are suitable for expert walkers and runners who are used to physically demanding and technical routes. It is strongly advised to use hiking poles on this route. The Black Route in Hatta is a challenging hiking trail that forms a loop, starting and ending at the Hatta Wadi Hub. The total length of the Black Trail is approximately 18 km.
For more information, call them at +971 4 8205555 or visit the Hatta website.
3. Wadi Shawka
Wadi Shawka, a popular outdoor destination in the Hajar mountain range in Ras Al Khaimah, offers diverse hiking experiences amidst stunning natural beauty, catering to both beginners and seasoned adventurers. Gentle 3-5 km loops wind through dramatic landscapes, while more challenging 10km routes test endurance with steep climbs and rocky terrain. The valley comes alive with mountain goats scaling cliffs, foxes darting between boulders, and eagles soaring overhead. Ancient limestone formations, hidden pools, and wind-carved rock sculptures create a breathtaking backdrop for your adventure, whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature walk or an exhilarating full-day trek through this untamed wilderness.
Wadi Shawka offers a variety of hiking routes, ranging from short, beginner-friendly trails to longer, more challenging ones. The well-known ones are:
Wadi Shawka Full Loop With Three Summits
An 8.2 km loop with an elevation gain of 1220 feet. It is a comparatively easy trail. The trail is well laid, easy to follow, and has shaded places to take a break.
Wadi Shawka Dam Full Loop
A 7.1 km loop with an elevation rise of 1234 feet. It is a clean and well-defined trail. Start your hike from the stairways and follow the route all the way back to the dam again. The initial steps will be steep, but they give momentum for the remaining trail. Due to many trails of various levels intercrossing each other, it will be a little confusing in some places, but you will not be deterred from your trail.
Wadi Shawka Dams To Pools
The Shawka Dam to Shawka pools hike is an easy yet very picturesque hike starting at the newly built staircases behind the Shawka Dam parking lot. It is 7.8 km long with an elevation rise of 1683 feet. Reach the top of the mountain, use the staircase, and then go down the hills until you reach the beautiful valley and Showka wadi, finishing with Shawka pools.
For more information, visit the Wadi Shawka website.
4. Al Rabi Tower
Perched above the charming coastal town of Khorfakkan, the historic Al Rabi Tower (built in 1915 as part of the city’s defence network) offers hikers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay below. The 6.2 km trail reveals stunning vistas of Shark Island, Pirate’s Cove, the Coliseum, and Al Shut Rest House along the way. Considered an ideal beginner’s hike for those with moderate fitness, this rewarding 2-3 hour round trip combines rich history with spectacular scenery, making it one of the most accessible yet visually stunning trails in the region. Once you reach the top, you will also get a mesmerising view of Khorfakkan and the Gulf of Oman.
5. Mushrif Park
Begin your desert hiking adventure at Mushrif Park, where an 8.3 km sandy loop trail offers a scenic and manageable challenge with undulating terrain and convenient rest stops. The trailhead starts near the main parking area, where you’ll register your details for safety before setting out through a surprisingly lush landscape dotted with over 70 species of native trees. While the soft sand and occasional small hills provide gentle exercise, you can easily shorten your hike by taking intersecting dirt paths. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy dawn or dusk visits, when migratory and local species are most active, adding to the beautiful backdrop of this ecologically important green space within the city.
6. Wadi Shees Natural Trail
Tucked within the dramatic Hajar Mountains, this rare mountain village of 300 residents preserves Emirati heritage while offering modern comforts – from healthcare and utilities to shops and tourist facilities. The accessible 1.8 km Shees Valley loop trail showcases this unique blend, winding past ancient falaj irrigation systems that still feed terraced farms today. Families can stroll through shaded palm groves, discover archaeological sites, and observe traditional agriculture, while lucky visitors might spot native wildlife thriving near freshwater sources. With its combination of cultural authenticity, natural beauty, and convenient amenities, this hidden gem has evolved into a complete mountain destination that welcomes all ages and abilities.
The Trails Are Waiting For You
Whether you choose gentle valley walks, coastal trails, or mountain paths, the UAE offers countless accessible routes to start your outdoor adventure. Remember to begin with short, well-marked trails, wear proper footwear, and carry plenty of water. As your confidence grows, so too can the challenge of your hikes. Most importantly, take time to appreciate the stunning landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and rich cultural heritage you’ll discover along the way. Every expert hiker was once a beginner – your journey starts with that first step onto the trail!
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