Jebel Jais, part of the majestic Hajar Mountains, is situated in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. The mountain is renowned for being the highest peak in the UAE, and in recent years, it has become a significant attraction for both domestic travelers and international tourists seeking adventure, natural beauty, and respite from the heat of the lowlands.
The rise of Jebel Jais as a tourist destination began in earnest with the development and enhancement of infrastructure aimed at making the mountain more accessible to visitors. The Ras Al Khaimah government has been instrumental in these to bolster tourism to contribute to the emirate's economic diversification.
In the early 2010s, efforts to develop Jebel Jais included the construction of a 20 km long road that winds up the mountain, providing visitors with a safe and scenic route. This not only facilitated easier access but also became an attraction in its own right for road trippers and cycling enthusiasts.
Subsequently, with a focus on adventure tourism, Jebel Jais started offering unique activities, such as the Jebel Jais Flight – which holds the record for the world's longest zipline, thrilling visitors with speeds up to 150 km/h.
Ras Al Khaimah, and Jebel Jais in particular, is mirroring global tourism trends, where there's growing interest in eco-tourism, adventure, and outdoor activities.
Recent developments include the launch of the Jais Adventure Peak, a collection of iconic adventure attractions stationed on the mountain. The Adventure Peak adds to the zipline with attractions such as the Jais Sky Tour, Jais Sky Maze, and viewing decks offering panoramic views.
Jebel Jais Via Ferrata is another attraction that caters to climbing enthusiasts, combining hiking, climbing, and ziplining in an experience that is drawing climbers from around the world.
An important addition to Jebel Jais's offerings is the emphasis on sustainability. The Bear Grylls Explorers Camp introduces survival training courses, capitalizing on the trend of experiential and educational tourism, allowing visitors to engage with the natural environment in a minimal impact way.
To support the growing tourist traffic while preserving the area’s natural beauty, there are plans for eco-friendly accommodation options like mountain lodges and sustainable camp sites, which would appeal to tourists looking for unique stays that harmonize with their surroundings.
The COVID-19 pandemic also triggered a trend towards outdoor and isolated holiday options, which Jebel Jais, with its vast open spaces, is well-positioned to capitalize on. Tourists are increasingly looking for destinations that allow for social distancing and minimal risk of contagion, and Jebel Jais's remote hiking trails and outdoor activities fit the bill perfectly.
The history and evolution of tourism at Jebel Jais reflect a broader trend in the UAE's approach to diversifying its economy and offering a range of experiences to visitors. With its combination of natural beauty, adventure, and sustainable development, Jebel Jais is not only a symbol of the potential of Ras Al Khaimah but also a beacon for future-focused tourism in the region.
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