UAE Hiking Trails: Discover the Best Hiking Spots Across the Emirates

UAE Hiking Trails may not be the first thing that comes to mind when people think of Dubai. The city is often associated with sprawling malls, luxurious beach resorts, and extravagant mega-yachts, which have all captured the attention of visitors. However, this article aims to unveil some of its best-kept secrets.

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UAE Hiking Trails

The UAE boasts some of the most remarkable hiking trails globally. With landscapes reminiscent of Mars and rugged wadi paths, exploring the beaten path in the UAE offers a unique perspective on the country and its enduring rural lifestyle. Beyond the iconic Burj Khalifa lies a rich tapestry of experiences, from the lively streets of Bur Dubai to the quaint pearling villages along the coast.

Whether you’re visiting Dubai and seeking a break from the city or living in the Emirates and eager to discover a different side of the country, this guide will highlight my top 18 favorite hiking trails in the UAE and provide directions from Dubai. Let’s dive in!

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Things to Know Before UAE Hiking Trails

Hiking trails in UAE can be quite different from trekking in other parts of the world due to its arid terrain and often extreme weather conditions. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind before you embark on your hiking adventure.

Assess Your Fitness Level

Have you hiked before? Do you have prior experience in other regions? These questions are crucial to consider before heading out on a trek in the Emirates. Be honest about your fitness level and don’t hesitate to start with one of the easier trails on this list.

Join a Group Tour

If it’s your first hiking experience or you prefer not to go alone, numerous group trips are available throughout the Emirates. I suggest checking Meetup for organized hiking groups.

Stay Hydrated

You’ll need more water than you might expect! I recommend bringing at least 3 liters per person. I always carry a water bladder on my hikes in the UAE to ensure I stay hydrated.

Consider the Terrain

Are you hiking in the Rocky Mountains to the north or the desert landscapes to the south? Understanding the geography of your chosen hike is vital to ensure you pack the right gear.

Dress Appropriately

I advise wearing lightweight, full-coverage clothing while hiking in the UAE. This not only protects you from the sun but also respects the conservative dress norms in more rural areas. Long-sleeve hiking shirts, like those from Columbia, are a great choice.

Choose the Right Season

Simply put, summer temperatures are too extreme for hiking in the UAE. The ideal hiking season is from October to March when the weather is milder. Regardless of the time of year, starting early is wise to take advantage of cooler temperatures and shade.

Monitor the Weather

Although rain is infrequent in the UAE, reconsider your hiking plans if rain is forecasted during the one rainy season of the year. Much of the UAE’s infrastructure is not designed for rain, and desert areas can be susceptible to flash floods.

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Top 18 UAE Hiking Trails in Dubai

The Emirate of Dubai extends far beyond the city itself, reaching into the desert and including the mountainous region of Hatta. If you’re looking to explore outside the city while remaining close to home, here are the top hiking spots in Dubai. If you prefer to stay within city limits, here are the best 18 hikes in Dubai itself.

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Zero Point Running Track

The Zero Point Running Track is undoubtedly the closest hiking option to Dubai. This urban trail runs alongside some of the city’s most famous beaches. Starting at Jumeirah Beach near the Burj Al Arab, this 5.1-mile trek takes you past many of Dubai’s iconic landmarks. Enjoy the sight of paragliders at Kite Beach or catch a glimpse of the Burj Khalifa in the distance!

The path is entirely flat and covered in rubber, making it an easy hike suitable for all fitness levels. There are also public restrooms and restaurants along the way. Be sure to stop at SALT in Kite Beach to try their salt and vinegar fries—you won’t regret it!

• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 5.1 miles / 8.2 km
• Location: 25.147373, 55.194181 (Starting Point).
• Cost: Free

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Mushrif Park Trails

Mushrif Park is a hidden treasure in Dubai, featuring a vast network of trails that seamlessly transition you from the vibrant city streets into peaceful natural surroundings. Among the various trails available, the standout is the 9.7 km hiking route that winds through picturesque desert scenery.

As you hike, you’ll encounter diverse landscapes and the chance to spot local wildlife. Keep an eye out for playful chipmunks, and if you’re fortunate, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Arabian Gazelle!

The trail is well-maintained, with accessible public restrooms and clear signage, making it an ideal choice for beginners. For cycling enthusiasts, Mushrif Park offers over 50 km of biking routes, as well as a skills course and pump track. Whether you choose to hike or bike, you’re in for an exhilarating experience!

• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 6 miles / 9.7 km
• Location: 25.223475, 55.452272 (Administration Office)
• Cost: 10 AED per vehicle

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Al Qudra Lakes Trails

Located just an hour’s drive from downtown Dubai, Al Qudra Lakes is a picturesque area featuring numerous trails and some of the most remarkable wildlife in the region. Over 170 bird species inhabit the lakes, including commonly seen flamingos, geese, and ducks, as well as rarer birds like the steppe eagle and the Asian houbara.

The lakes are a favored destination for desert camping in Dubai, with the most popular trail meandering around the Love Lakes—two heart-shaped interlocking lakes surrounded by a 7 km trail. This is a perfect spot to stroll with a loved one before setting up camp under the starry desert sky.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: ~4.3 miles / 7 km
• Location: 24.839975, 55.352506 (Main Al Qudra Lake)
• Cost: Free

Quick Tip: Al Qudra Lakes is conveniently located next to the Al Marmoum Racetrack, where you can experience Dubai’s weekly camel races!

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Hatta Sign Hike

One of the most Instagram-worthy hikes in the Emirates is the Hatta Sign hike located in Hatta Wadi Hub, easily overshadowing the Hollywood Sign. Hatta is a part of the emirate of Dubai, situated about 140 km (1.5-hour drive) from downtown. Here, the iconic skyscrapers give way to the towering Hajar Mountains, with the Hatta Sign sitting amid them, offering stunning views ideal for social media snaps.

These mountain trails are relatively short but steep, stretching just over a 3 km round trip with a significant elevation gain in the initial segment. Starting at Wadi Hub—a center for adventure activities such as cycling and high ropes courses—the trail quickly ascends to a scenic viewpoint where hikers can take a picture with the impressive 19-meter tall sign and enjoy breathtaking vistas extending into Oman.

• Difficulty: Easy/Medium
• Distance: 1.9 miles / 3 km
• Location: 24.814353, 56.159866 (Wadi Hub Parking Area)
• Cost: Free

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Fossil Rock

Fossil Rock is a beloved hiking destination in the UAE, particularly appealing to geologists. The trail leads hikers across a fossil-rich rock formation that offers stunning views of the desert landscape. As you hike, keep an eye out for prehistoric nummulites embedded in the rock, and enjoy the sight of the vibrant orange sands of the Mleiha Desert.

Although Fossil Rock is situated in Sharjah, which borders Dubai, it is just a short drive from downtown Dubai, making it one of the top day hikes in the region. The hike is classified as medium in difficulty, primarily due to the somewhat unmarked path and the flexibility of the route. For detailed guidance, you can refer to my Fossil Rock Hiking Guide to help you navigate the trail and spot ancient gastropods along the way!

• Difficulty: Medium
• Distance: 5 miles / 8 km
• Location: 25.10029, 55.50297 (Hike Parking Area)
• Cost: Free
• Emirate: Sharjah – 70 km from Dubai

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Wadi Naqab

Wadi Naqab may be one of the most challenging hikes in the UAE, but it is absolutely rewarding. Located in Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate, this hike features all the best aspects of trekking in the UAE—twisting wadis, mountaintop villages, and breathtaking views. It’s one of my personal favorites, balancing technical challenges with spectacular scenery.

The Wadi Naqab hike begins on relatively flat terrain, following a well-maintained dirt road through a wadi. The trail then ascends along a broad rocky ledge, providing an adrenaline rush with stunning vistas before descending into a wadi dotted with small, winding pools.

The final ascent leads steeply uphill to the picturesque mountaintop village of Al Sanat, complete with terraced farms and panoramic views of the Hajar Mountains. The Wadi Naqab trail is generally well-marked.

• Difficulty: Medium/Difficult
• Distance: 8.6 miles / 13 km
• Location: 25.690768, 56.041753 (Hike Parking Area)
• Cost: Free
• Emirate: Ras Al Khaimah – 115 km from Dubai

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Wadi Shees

For those seeking a hike outside the city that isn’t overly strenuous, the Wadi Shees Nature Trail offers a perfect balance. This introductory hike spans 1.8 km through a date farm, allowing visitors to observe the date cultivation process firsthand. The trail also follows an ancient falaj, a traditional irrigation system used throughout the Arabian Peninsula to transport fresh water year-round.

The falaj alongside the Wadi Shees Nature Trail is one of the oldest in the country, dating back 3,000 years! This trail provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of the Emirates while enjoying some time in nature. One of the highlights of Wadi Shees is its unique microclimate, which keeps it cooler throughout the year!

• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 1.1 miles / 1.8 km
• Location: 25.291278, 56.244973 (Trailhead)
• Cost: Free
• Emirate: Sharjah – 120 km from Dubai

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Al Rabi Hike

Nestled along the breathtaking eastern coastline of the UAE, the Al Rabi Hike offers one of the finest vantage points for gazing at the Gulf of Oman. Situated just outside Khor Fakkan, this hike rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the coastal city upon reaching the final lookout. With a roundtrip distance of 5.5 kilometers, the Al Rabi Trail serves as an excellent introduction for those new to hiking, though its gradual elevation ensures it’s not just a stroll.

The hike begins at the historic Al Rabi Tower (Burj al Rabi), a watchtower built in 1915, and ascends the nearby mountain. Throughout the journey, hikers can enjoy stunning ocean views—be sure to watch for boats, dolphins, and some hidden beaches along the way! Al Rabi is a popular hiking destination in the UAE, and Khor Fakkan is cherished as a favorite city.

• Difficulty: Easy/Medium
• Distance: 3.4 miles / 5.5 km 
• Location: 25.339901, 56.357955 (Trail Parking Area)
• Cost: Free
• Emirate: Sharjah – 130 km from Dubai

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Wadi Ghub

Known informally as the “Rainbow Spectrum Hike,” Wadi Ghub lives up to its name. From the moment you enter the wadi, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped onto another planet, surrounded by vibrant, multicolored rocks that create a stunning rainbow effect. While the most photographed area is the Rainbow Valley, where white and pink rock layers create a striking visual, the entire wadi is filled with colorful formations worth exploring.

Wadi Ghub offers one of the most flexible hiking experiences on this list. The Rainbow Valley is just a 3.2 km roundtrip from the trailhead, making it accessible for novice hikers seeking that perfect Instagram shot. However, there’s much more to discover, as experienced hikers can venture up to 13 km deeper into the wadi for breathtaking views extending into Oman.

• Difficulty: Easy/Medium/Difficult (varied routes)
• Distance: 2-8 miles / 3.2-13 km
• Location: 25.577142, 56.185255 (Trail Parking Area)
• Cost: Free
• Emirate: Fujairah – 140 km from Dubai

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Stairway to Heaven

Finally, we arrive at the UAE’s most demanding hike, known as the Stairway to Heaven. This trail has gained a notorious reputation for its seemingly endless uphill trek and its challenging, rocky path. Interestingly, this remote hike serves as a daily route for many locals, so you may encounter villagers making their way up the mountain during your journey.

For those who are reasonably fit, the Stairway to Heaven presents a great opportunity to test your physical limits while enjoying breathtaking views. The challenge primarily lies in its elevation, as it involves a continuous ascent with little respite. Nevertheless, the spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs make every uphill step worthwhile.

If you’re apprehensive about the difficulty, consider camping at a shelter along the way. We found that splitting the hike over two days made the experience much more manageable.

• Difficulty: Difficult
• Distance: 5-12 miles / 8-20 km
• Location: 25.577142, 56.185255 (Trail Parking Area)
• Cost: Free
• Emirate: Fujairah – 140 km from Dubai

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Wadi Shawka

Located just an hour from Dubai, Wadi Shawka is one of the most accessible hiking destinations for beginners. The area features a range of trails, allowing you to opt for a quick jaunt or take your time to explore the scenic Shawka Pools. No matter your choice, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views and plenty of photo opportunities.

You can start your adventure at the Shawka Dam, where you can either climb the stairs leading directly to the summit or select one of the marked trails that are easily visible from the small parking lot. The paths are well-signposted, making it hard to get lost, and they are safe for families with children. It’s also a dog-friendly location, but be sure to keep your pets on a leash to prevent them from wandering off.

• Ideal for Beginners
• Distance from Dubai: 1-hour drive
• Coordinates: 25.103958, 56.039260

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Wadi Munay

Situated in Ras Al Khaimah, Wadi Munay is a beloved hiking trail suitable for all ages, including children. Your journey will begin with an ascent through the dry wadi, leading up to a plateau. From there, you can loop around the mountain before heading back to your starting point, covering approximately 5.5 kilometers.

• Ideal for A blend of bouldering and trekking
• Distance from Dubai: 1 hour and 30 minutes drive
• Coordinates: 24.99048, 56.12411

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Ain Al Sheria

Ain Al Sheria, located in northwest Fujairah, is one of the most visually striking hikes in the UAE. The trail features stunning rock formations in rich russet hues and an impressive boulder adorned with ancient petroglyphs, setting it apart from other hikes. The well-marked 8.8-kilometer trail has been recently upgraded through the efforts of Fujairah Adventures.

This hike is challenging and requires some previous experience. While there are shaded shelters for resting, much of the path is exposed to the sun, so it’s essential to carry plenty of water and apply sunscreen. Note that parking is limited, and accessing the trail typically requires a 4×4 vehicle.

• Ideal for Intermediate hikers
• Distance from Dubai: 1 hour and 50 minutes drive
• Coordinates: 25.606302, 56.152161

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Wadi Al Helo Sharjah

Wadi Helo, which translates to “The Sweet Wadi,” is situated near a historic village in the Hajar Mountains of Sharjah. The wadi flows into a lagoon and passes by the ancient Awhala Fort. Hikers will encounter numerous historical ruins and watchtowers dating back to the Islamic Golden Age. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. If you have an interest in history and archaeology, this hike will likely be quite appealing.

• Ideal for Intermediate hikers
• Distance from Dubai: 1 hour and 40 minutes drive
• Coordinates: 24.5633, 56.1220

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Jebel Jais

Jebel Jais is the tallest mountain in the UAE, featuring two distinct hiking areas with a total of six trails that cater to varying levels of difficulty. The lower section has five trails ranging from 0.7 km (Farfaar Trail) to 6 km (Samar Trail). All the hikes are marked but for those preferring guided experiences, companies like Beyond Action (beyondaction. ae), Challenging Adventure (challengingadventure.com), and Adventurati Outdoor (adventurati-outdoor.com) offer tours. The upper trail presents a greater challenge with a steep ascent.

However, it is also well-defined, making it difficult to lose your way. This path leads to both the northern and southern summits, where you can enjoy spectacular views from the highest peaks in the UAE. Thanks to significant efforts from the Ras Al Khaimah government, Jebel Jais has become a hotspot for adventure seekers and is home to the UAE’s highest restaurant, 1484 by Puro, named for its elevation above sea level.

• Ideal for: Spectacular panoramas
• Distance from Dubai: 2 hours
• Coordinates: 25.903435, 56.140985 (lower trails); 25.938134, 56.131498 (upper trails)

Read more: UAE Mountains; Emirates Mountains Jebel Jais Hajar Mountain in Ras Al Khaimah

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Jebel Hafeet

Located in Al Ain, the only mountainous area in Abu Dhabi, Jebel Hafeet features a range of rewarding hiking opportunities. One option is Green Mubazzarah Park, although it may be closed due to COVID-19 restrictions, so it’s advisable to check its status before planning your hike. Another route, known as the “smuggler’s route,” begins at the Desert Park on the mountain’s far side. Both trails are classified as intermediate and include some loose rocks, making them unsuitable for children or those new to hiking.

• Ideal for Advanced hikers
• Distance from Dubai: 1 hour and 50 minutes by car
• Coordinates: 24.098936, 55.748944 (Green Mubazzarah Park); 24.055854, 55.798625 (Jebel Hafeet Desert Park)

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Wadi Abadilah

This trail has become a favorite among hikers for its stunning natural scenery, including the picturesque Wadi Abadilah. It is rated as easy to moderate and takes you through agricultural land where you can see banana trees, mango trees, date palms, and more. Following some recent rainfall, you might be fortunate enough to encounter flowing streams and pools in the wadis. While this hike is manageable for young children, it’s important to supervise them since some rocks can be slippery.

• Ideal for Bouldering and wadi dips
• Distance from Dubai: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
• Coordinates: 25.440816, 56.196784

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Jebel Qada’ah

Positioned in the Northern UAE and Musandam mountains, Jebel Qada’ah is the second-highest peak in the country. Hikers can enjoy some of the most breathtaking views from this mountain range, with two trails available that vary in difficulty from very challenging to moderate. While hiking, keep an eye out for the Secret Staircase, a natural formation created by local goat herders. To locate the trailheads, simply search for “Jebel Qada’ah route 1” or “Jebel Qada’ah route 2” on Google Maps.

• Ideal for Scenic views and more experienced hikers
• Distance from Dubai: 2 hours by car
• Coordinates: 25.778743, 56.140619

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Checklist for Enjoyable Hiking in the UAE

Hiking is a wonderful way to connect with nature, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the outdoors. However, those who have hiked without proper preparation often end up regretting it. Issues like unsuitable footwear, insufficient water, or missing maps can lead to a less enjoyable experience. To help you prepare, here’s a checklist of essential hiking gear:

• Footwear: Choose hiking boots that are slightly wider in the toe area to accommodate foot swelling during hikes, while also being lightweight and breathable.
• Backpacks: Opt for an ultralight, water-resistant, and tear-resistant backpack to handle the diverse terrain you may encounter in the UAE.
• Hydration: Bring more water than you think you’ll need; staying hydrated is crucial.
• Useful Apps: Consider downloading apps like Wikiloc and AllTrails, which are excellent for discovering trails and offer features like outdoor navigation, offline maps, and live tracking.
• Additional Essentials: Other important items to pack include a headlamp, a portable charger with cables, a first aid kit, sunscreen, snacks, sunglasses, a hat, and a phone with offline maps.

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Top 8 Safety Tips for Hiking in the UAE

Here are eight tips for safety while hiking in the UAE trails:

• Always inform someone of your hiking plans and the time you expect to return.
• Avoid hiking alone. If you must, stick to well-trafficked routes and stay on course.
• Bring more water than you anticipate needing. If you become lost in the mountains, water will sustain you until help arrives.
• Download maps before you head out, as mobile network coverage in mountainous areas can be unreliable, with some spots having no signal at all.
• Morning hikes are safer since you’ll have plenty of daylight. If you plan to hike at night, ensure you have enough flashlights and are familiar with your route.
• Check the weather forecast before you leave. Rain can lead to flash floods, which can be dangerous.
• Avoid attempting advanced hikes without a guide. Being unprepared can have serious consequences.
• Always leave the mountains as you find them. Please do not litter.

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Top Hiking Trails in the UAE and Oman to Explore This Winter

Winter is an ideal season to venture outdoors and discover the stunning hiking trails in the UAE and Oman, many of which are just a few hours’ drive from urban centers like Dubai and Muscat. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker looking for an adrenaline rush, the region offers some of the most fulfilling hikes, from picturesque wadis to the Middle East’s Grand Canyon.

Both the UAE and Oman experience rapidly changing weather and terrain; flash floods can obstruct roads, and unexpected rain can disrupt your plans. Therefore, prioritizing safety in your preparations is essential. If you’re traveling to Oman by car from the UAE, ensure your vehicle has insurance coverage. This can be conveniently purchased at the border along with your tourist visa.

It’s also wise to consider hiring a trained guide equipped with navigation tools and safety expertise to help mitigate unexpected challenges. Joining a group tour or booking a private guide can enhance your hiking experience and is often more affordable than you might think. Their services can tailor the adventure to suit all ages and fitness levels. Here are some of the top hiking routes in the UAE and Oman, best accessed by four-wheel drive.

Oman Hiking Trails

Jebel Akhdar (Beginner/Intermediate Level)

Embark on a journey through history with trails in the ancient Hajar mountain range, where you can explore abandoned villages perched on plateau edges, and falaj irrigation systems weaving through date palms and pomegranate trees. You’ll also find inviting emerald pools to cool off in. While this hike isn’t overly challenging, expect some minor bouldering and a few steep climbs.

UAE Trekkers offers two-day excursions that allow you to experience the area like a local, including overnight stays in stone huts. For a more luxurious experience, consider the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, which provides a high-end getaway while still immersing you in nature.

Wadi Tiwi (Intermediate/Advanced Level)

Wadi Tiwi is one of Oman’s lushest regions, featuring beautiful pools that hikers love for a refreshing dip, along with ancient villages and vibrant plantations. Adventurers can trek through boulder-strewn paths to reach Mibam village, which takes about two to three hours. Those interested in the waterfall need to be strong swimmers, as it requires navigating approximately 100 meters through pools to access the falls.

For advanced climbers, there’s the option to scale the waterfall rocks. This challenging ascent requires ropes, safety gear, helmets, and life jackets, but rewards trekkers with a unique perspective of the wadi.

Wadi Shab, Al Sharqiyah (All Levels)

This moderate trek allows hikers to meander through farms and falaj irrigation systems, making it a popular spot for picnicking and swimming. After about an hour and a half of relatively easy hiking, you’ll arrive at a pool area. A 15-minute climb leads to the secret keyhole—a three-meter gap between the water and rock.

This passageway opens into a cavern where, depending on the season, you might find a waterfall with a rope. Adventurous visitors can leap into the pool from an eight-meter ledge, using the rope to climb back out. Nearby, you can also visit the Bimmah Sinkhole in Hawiyat Najm Park, a large limestone depression filled with saltwater and small fish, accessible via a stairway leading to a lovely swimming area.

Wadi Damm (Intermediate/Advanced Level)

Wadi Damm features breathtaking limestone formations and water year-round. It is easily accessible by off-road driving to the first dam, from where hikers can follow the falaj system to the pools and rock formations. About 20 minutes in, a sandbank provides easy access to climb the rocks and jump into the pool. As you continue, you’ll encounter a network of canyon walls and water obstacles, but the trek downstream is particularly recommended. For those seeking a less intense experience, it’s also possible to walk along the boulders by the water’s edge.

UAE Hiking Trails

Buraimi (Beginner/Intermediate)

Located just a short distance over the Oman border from Al Ain, Buraimi offers some of the most stunning hikes among the lush landscapes of the UAE’s neighbor. Many of these trails feature refreshing water hikes through beautiful turquoise pools nestled in rich farmland. The Wadi Khutwa hike spans a manageable two to four kilometers, making it suitable for all experience levels and fitness capacities.

If you’re fortunate enough to find it raining, you might be able to leap from the top of canyon walls into the pools below, provided that the water levels are sufficient. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including fish and frogs, thriving among the palm groves and along the valley walls. This hike typically takes around two to three hours and is characterized by low elevation.

The Hidden Oasis, RAK (Intermediate/Advanced)

Hidden within the Baron Rocky Mountains lies a lush retreat featuring vibrant farms and date plantations. While the terrain can be challenging with some scrambling required, the effort is rewarded with one of the country’s most stunning hikes. Beginning at Jebel Jais, this trail is rated from intermediate to advanced, exposing hikers to hillside farms and villages where remote mountain tribes still reside and cultivate the land.

It’s advisable to hire a guide for this adventure, especially if you opt for the longer route. The short path is approximately 5 kilometers and takes about two to three hours, whereas the longer loop stretches to 15 kilometers and will take around six to eight hours to complete.

Rainbow Valley/Wadi Ghub, Fujairah (Intermediate)

As its name suggests, Rainbow Valley, or Wadi Ghub boasts a dazzling array of colors etched into geological layers of red, green, brown, and black—truly a sight unlike any other in the region. This trail is part of the newly opened Fujairah trails and is approximately 11 kilometers out and back, with options to shorten your journey if needed. The hike involves some fun scrambling and is lined with towering ancient Sidr trees, with magical waterfalls and rock pools appearing after rainfall.

Secret Canyon Trail, Hatta (Intermediate)

Hatta features numerous well-marked trails, and the Secret Canyon Trail is rich with sights to enjoy along the way. Starting from a local farm near the Hatta Dam, the route winds through narrow crevices between mountain ridges before opening up to a broader path. As you hike past farms and plantations, you’ll ultimately reach the highlight of the journey: the secret gorge. After taking in the dramatic views from the gorge, you’ll return to the dam. The loop measures about 10 kilometers and typically takes four to six hours, positioned at mid-elevation. Good footwear is essential, as the terrain can be rocky and loose.

Al Rabi Mountain Trail, Khorfakkan (Beginner/Lower Intermediate)

Although it includes some steep sections, Al Rabi Mountain Trail is a pleasant afternoon hike on a nice day. You’re rewarded not only with a good workout but also with breathtaking views of the beautiful Khorfakkan Bay, often regarded as one of the UAE’s most picturesque coastlines.

This trail is recommended for beginners, featuring well-maintained paths spanning 5.3 kilometers that can be completed in a few hours, depending on your pace. Numerous rest stops and signage along the route eliminate the need for a guide—just follow the path. The hike begins and ends at Al Rabi Tower, a historic structure dating back to 1915, which adds cultural interest and excellent photo opportunities.

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Conclusion

UAE Hiking Trails offer a remarkable range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts, from scenic views to challenging adventures. Whether tackling the difficult Wadi Naqab – Bat Cave Trail or enjoying the stunning vistas of the Al Rabi Mountain Trail, there’s something for every level of hiker. For those seeking a mix of challenge and accessibility, the intermediate trails such as Wadi Shawka provide perfect opportunities for exploration.

As you traverse the best hiking trails, including the Jebel Jais Lower Trails, you’ll discover over 1,000 kilometers of official hiking trails throughout the United Arab Emirates. These trails not only showcase the region’s breathtaking beauty but also create memorable experiences. So lace up your hiking boots and uncover your favorite hikes in this stunning desert landscape!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)