Embark on an exhilarating journey through the UAE and explore its hidden gems with the best hiking trails.
From the rugged landscapes of Hatta Mountains in Dubai to the UNESCO-nominated Mleiha in Sharjah, and the towering peaks of Jebel Hafeet in Abu Dhabi, each emirate boasts unique trails that captivate adventure enthusiasts.
Whether you seek panoramic views, historical sites, or the thrill of off-road exploration, the hiking trails in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman and other emirates of the UAE promise an unforgettable experience in the lap of nature.
Best hiking trails in UAE
Dubai Newsweek unveils the diverse and enchanting hiking trails in the UAE.
1. Hiking in Dubai – Hatta Mountains
The Hatta region is surrounded by two mountains from the northern and southern borders. They are distinctive landmarks that attract visitors wishing to enjoy the landscape and sports in the area.
2. Sharjah: Al Rabi Hiking Trail
Located on the east coast of Sharjah, the Al Rabi hiking Trail has been carefully designed to enable visitors to attain the mountain top and enjoy stunning views of Khorfakkan at 395 metres.
3. Mleiha
Mleiha, a UNESCO nominated world heritage site, includes a number of important sites, including Bronze Age tombs and pre-Islamic forts. A wealth of fascinating artifacts have been discovered, from camel skeletons to pottery and iron tools, and many antiquities are displayed at the Mleiha Archeology Centre. The center opened in 2016 and offers a variety of tours and activities. You can explore the archaeological sites or choose activities such as a camel rock tour, desert bike ride, 4×4 ride, dune bike adventure and even paragliding.
4. Hiking trails in Abu Dhabi – Jebel Hafeet (Al Ain)
If you want to enjoy astonishing views of Abu Dhabi city, then the summit of Jebel Hafeet is your go-to destination. The height of the mountain peak is 1,249 meters, and it is the highest in Abu Dhabi and the second highest in the UAE, making it an ideal stop for walking, motorcycling, biking and off-roading.
5. Hiking trails in Ras Al Khaimah – Wadi Shawka
Wadi Shawka in Ras Al Khaimah brings together the Emirati heritage and urban development. One of the things that makes it unique is the transformation of the Al Sadd area into a tourist zone amidst green nature, where visitors can do many activities, including walking in the mountainous areas, making it a haven for people who love to relax.
6. Jebel Jais
Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the country and is home to the highest mountain peak in the UAE. In addition to providing many activities such as zip-lining and flying over the slopes, visitors can climb on its hills and hike through its trails.
7. Masafi Mountains
Masafi is located on the border, separating the Emirates of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. In addition to embracing heritage places such as the Masafi Heritage Castle, the area is home to many beautiful trails that attract hiking enthusiasts.
8. Wadi Al Baih
Wadi Al Baih embraces charming landscapes, the most important of which is the river from Ras Al Khaimah. The valley is a destination for those who love to stroll in nature amidst ancient houses and bird watching sites.
9. Jabal Al Mabrah
Walking in the mountains both calms and energises you. What do you think about an enjoyable “hiking” adventure in Jabal Al Mabrah? At an altitude of more than 1,500 metres, the captivating mountain nature extends to 5,010 feet, making this mountain one of the tallest points in the country and an ideal destination for exploration.
10. Wadi Ghalilah
Wadi Ghalilah in Ras Al Khaima is one of the best-known valleys in the UAE. The valley has many paths and mountain heights, including a series of stone paths that reach a height of 2,000 metres and connect to the top of Jebel Jais for you to enjoy charming panoramic views that introduce you to the area’s nature and topography.
11. Hidden Cave in Ras Al Khaimah
Do you enjoy mysterious and hidden locations? The hidden cave in Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Rahba Valley provides a unique exploration opportunity, as driving through the valley is regarded as one of the UAE’s most distinctive off-road experiences. Wadi Al Rahba is well-known for having some of the best hiking trails and rock climbing spots in the UAE.
12. Wadi Monay
The Wadi Monay in Ras Al Khaimah is a 1.5-kilometre-long mountain trail for beginners, nature walkers, and mountaineering enthusiasts of easy and medium difficulty. Its visitors are known for its history and picturesque nature, which is home to a variety of plants, rocks, and animals.
13. Hiking trails in Ajman – Masfout
Masfout, famous for its fertile agricultural land, high-quality marble and rugged backdrop, is an excellent destination for hikers. Its altitude and cooler temperatures attract all nature lovers who enjoy an outdoor stroll, mountain biking, family picnics, and exploring the surrounding valley.
14. Hiking in Fujairah – Wadi Taybah
Located in Dibba Al Fujairah. It is considered one of the easy mountain trails that attract beginners in hiking. The trail is known for its scenic views, diverse natural terrain, and the mild climate in the region throughout the year.
15. Wadi Al Hayl
Wadi Al Hayl Dam, located in the middle of the Fujairah Mountains, is a charming and unique destination for adventure seekers, as it allows them to walk and climb mountains and hills near the dam, explore the breathtaking beauty of nature and difficult terrain, and camp under the stars of the glittering sky in the shadow of the majesty of the surrounding mountains on all sides. This 15-kilometre-long dam became famous due to its unique geographical location in the mountains, which made it a unique tourist destination.
16. Rainbow Mountain
The Rainbow Mountain path in Fujairah is one of the most beautiful paths in the UAE. It is a path that is distinguished by the colour diversity of its rocks and meanders, which makes it a natural masterpiece hidden in Fujairah, for lovers of walking in nature and adventurers looking for a unique and exceptional experience.
17. Dahir Sulphur Pools
If you are looking for a unique and exceptional trip amidst the charming nature of Al Fujairah, the long-distance hiking trail in Wadi Dahir provides you with a wonderful exploration experience and takes you to the turquoise blue sulfur pools, where nature cures, relieves stress, and exhaustion, and gets rid of the hustle and bustle of daily life.
18. Ain Al Sheria
With its mountains, farms, fresh water, palm trees, and the Alhamba, the city of Ain Al Sheria in Fujairah is an idyllic haven for nature lovers. It combines magic, adventure, and mountain scenery with simple residential and agricultural features to create an ideal exploration experience.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through the best hiking trails in the UAE, one thing becomes clear – the UAE is not just about skyscrapers and bustling cities. The diverse landscapes, from mountain peaks to hidden caves, showcase the natural beauty that awaits those willing to explore.
So, grab your hiking boots and experience the simplicity and serenity of the UAE’s outdoor wonders. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting, these trails offer a glimpse into the country’s rich tapestry of nature, making every step a discovery and every view a memory to cherish.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
