Hear from the experts on how to make the most of hiking in Ras Al Khaimah. Explore the Emirate’s stunning trails and capture these bucket list experiences to be in with a chance to win passes to the Jebel Jais Flight and Jais Sky Tour on the UAE’s highest peak

As the milder temperatures continue to set the perfect conditions to explore the great outdoors, the team at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) is sharing useful tips and information to inspire nature enthusiasts to explore the Emirate’s spectacular trails.

Running throughout March, the tourism team will release a series of expert led videos on its social media channels advising hikers (and avid walkers) how best to prepare for an excursion as well as offering interesting insights into the various routes and tips on safety.

A haven for photography buffs and content creators alike, Ras Al Khaimah is also encouraging visitors to capture its stunning views and unbeatable sunsets – undoubtedly, the setting that Instagram dreams are made of – via a social media competition. Anyone who posts photos or videos on their public profiles with #MyRAKHike will automatically be entered into a special draw to win an adrenalin fueled combo pass for the Jebel Jais Flight and Jais Sky Tour. Two winners will be announced each week throughout the month.

With an abundance of natural pools (wadis), peaks, and craigs woven across the mountainous landscape, Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect quick getaway for anyone looking to break out of their routines and immerse themselves in nature. Known as a hiker’s paradise, the Emirate offers the ideal setting for this outdoor activity that is fast becoming a must-do for people of all ages and abilities.  Not only does hiking offer a number of physical benefits – including muscle and core strengthening and the lowering of blood pressure – but it is also known to support emotional wellbeing, improving mental health, and reducing stress.  

Recommended hiking hotspots such as Wadi Showka and Wadi Shahha, as well as lesser known hidden gems Wadi Naqab and the Wadi Showka Water Pools, will be revealed each week throughout March. These will include leading experts: Fadi Hachicho, an experienced mountaineer who has scaled peaks including Kilimanjaro, and is the Founder and Head Guide at Adventurati; Paige Duvenage, the Lead Mountain Guide at Adventurati, who is well-versed in all things outdoors in addition to being a yoga instructor; Hazaa Fazaa, the Emirati outdoors advocate, who has led numerous open hikes as featured on his YouTube page; and Hussain Darwish, the Organizing Marshal of The Human & K9 Ultimate Challenge and Founder of HK9, an outdoor activity provider that focuses on hiking experiences with a man’s ‘four legged’ best friend.

Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “The diverse terrain of Ras Al Khaimah offers hikers an extensive choice of outdoor experiences that appeal to first-time adventurers as well as experienced hikers. With this program,  we wanted to shine a light on the spectacular natural wonders of Ras Al Khaimah, as well as providing all hikers with guidance and support to enjoy memorable and safe nature-based experiences. We look forward to welcoming the local community, UAE residents as well as tourists to our many hidden ‘gems’ in the form of wadis, trails, and peaks in the coming month for a much-needed change of scenery and an opportunity to switch of and enjoy the Emirate’s majestic surroundings.”

To ensure that safety standards are met, hikers are advised to plan their routes ahead of time, stay on the official trails and always take along a buddy. Prior to setting out, it is encouraged to check the weather, carry sunscreen and a first aid kit, and wear appropriate attire including study boots and hats.

In respect for the beautiful natural environment, littering is prohibited, as is alcohol, loud music and use of drones. Hikers are also asked to keep their distance from private lands and farms, which are all clearly marked, as well as from wildlife. Designated hiking areas have been dotted with helpful signage. Any hiking enthusiast making a trip to Ras Al Khaimah is encouraged to visit www.visitrasalkhaimah.com or email at outdoors@raktda.com for helpful tips and safety protocols before they travel. Operators are also asked to follow hiking protocols applied to all commercial tours and events.  All hiking tour operators (who receive payment from customers) must hold a license from RAKTDA. These protocols are in place to ensure the highest safety and security for guests to the Emirate.

Guests’ safety and wellbeing remains Ras Al Khaimah’s utmost priority. In addition to becoming the first city in the world to be certified as safe by Bureau Veritas and World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), all 45 of its hotels have received Bureau Veritas certification. RAKTDA works closely with all hotel partners to ensure they are strictly adhering to all government and public health guidelines and complying with all social distancing advisories.