Whether you’re up for a regular hike or some adrenaline spike, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has got you covered for all of your adventurous needs. With its rugged mountains, dramatic landscapes, and adrenaline-innducing activities, RAK has proven to be the ultimate playground for anyone seeking thrills and excitement.
2025 hiking challenge coming to RAK
The hiking trails of Ras Al Khaimah have long been a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the most breathtaking views in the UAE. Recently, RAK Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announced it will host the fourth edition of the 80km Highlander Adventure from 7-9 February, 2025. This event, organised by Highlander, a leading international hiking association, features a long-distance hiking challenge on Jebel Jais. Participants will explore scenic trails, historic sites, and cultural landscapes, showcasing the Emirate’s heritage as part of the route.
Now let’s dive into the top five activities that should be on every thrill-seeker’s list when visiting RAK.
1. Jais Via Ferrata ledgewalk
For those who aren’t content with simply hiking, the Jais Via Ferrata offers a more intense and heart-stopping way to experience the mountains. This iron pathway clings to the rugged face of Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak. Adventurers can traverse along the cliff, clipped into a secure steel cable, navigating a series of ladders, suspension bridges, and zip lines. The Via Ferrata combines rock climbing, hiking, and zip-lining into one thrilling activity that tests your physical limits while providing awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Jais Sky Tour and world’s longest zipline
If flying through the air is more your style, then look no further than the Jais Sky Tour and the world-famous Jais Flight zipline. The Sky Tour takes you on a series of six ziplines connected by sky bridges, so you’re assured a bird’s eye perspective of the Hajar Mountains. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, the three-minute Jais Flight – the world’s longest zipline – stretches more than 2.83km at 1680m above the Arabian Gulf, and reaches speeds of up to 150 km/h.
3. RAK TRACK and speedboat tours
If your need for speed is better suited to the ground (or the water), then head to the RAK Track. This professional-grade karting circuit lets you channel your inner race car driver with hairpin turns and high-speed straights that test your driving skills.
After burning rubber on the track, why not cool off with a sightseeing speedboat tour along RAK’s stunning coastline. Combining speeds with breathtaking views, we think that’s a great way to explore the emirate from the water.
4. Jais Ropes Course and Bear Grylls Explorers Camp
For a mix of physical and mental challenges, the Jais Ropes Course is an exciting option. This aerial adventure park features a series of high ropes and obstacle courses, designed to test your balance, agility, and nerve.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp offers survival courses inspired by the famous adventurer. Learn essential survival skills, including fire building, shelter construction, and foraging, in the wild terrain of RAK’s mountains. It’s an adventure that pushes your limits and teaches you to thrive in the great outdoors.
5. Fly in style
If your dream is to soar above the landscape, RAK offers several options for aerial adventures. At the Al Jazirah Aviation Club, you can learn to fly a light aircraft, giving you a bird’s eye view of the emirate. For those looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience, Action Flight offers aerobatic flights that take you through thrilling manoeuvres in the sky. Whether you’re flipping, rolling, or diving, these flights will take the thrill of aviation to the next level!
