Jebel Jais Zipline in Ras Al Khaimah: A Day Trip from Dubai

High above the desert in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, the Jebel Jais zipline is one of the most exciting day trips you can take from Dubai. You fly over the rocky peaks of the Hajar Mountains, on one of the longest zip lines in the world, and come back with a story that very few visitors to the UAE can tell. Here is what to expect and how to plan your day.

What is the Jebel Jais zipline?

Jebel Jais is the highest mountain area of the United Arab Emirates, about a two-hour drive north of Dubai. The main ride, known as Jebel Jais Flight, is a long single zip line that sends you over the valley in a “superman” position, lying face down in a harness. There is also a longer circuit of several shorter ziplines on the same mountain. The operator explains the options, the safety rules and the current requirements when you book.

What the experience is like

• The drive up: the mountain road is part of the fun, with viewpoints over the valleys on the way to the top.
• Check-in and briefing: the team weighs and checks every guest, fits the harness and explains how the ride works.
• The flight: you leave the platform and glide over the mountains at high speed, with nothing but rock and sky below you. The ride itself lasts only a few minutes, but most guests say it feels much longer.
• The landing: a braking system slows you down at the end platform, and a short transfer takes you back to the start.

Best time to go

The cooler months, from about October to April, are the most comfortable time for a day in the mountains. The air at Jebel Jais is usually several degrees cooler than in Dubai, so bring a light jacket in winter. Morning slots are a good choice if you want to be back in Dubai for the evening. Rides can be paused in strong wind or bad weather; in that case the operator reschedules.

Who can ride

Ziplines have minimum age, height and weight limits, and some health conditions (for example heart problems, recent surgery or pregnancy) may not be allowed. The limits are set by the operator and can change, so we confirm them with you before you pay. If someone in your group does not want to ride, they can enjoy the viewing areas at the top.

What to wear and bring

• Closed shoes that stay on your feet (no sandals or flip-flops).
• Comfortable clothes; tie back long hair.
• A light jacket in the winter months.
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and water for the drive.
• Loose items (phones, cameras, keys) usually stay in a locker; ask about photo and video options when you book.

How to plan the day from Dubai

Most guests leave Dubai in the morning, ride the zipline and are back in the afternoon or early evening. If you want to make it a full day, you can stop at the mountain viewpoints on the way down. For the rest of your stay in the UAE, it combines well with a calmer day in the city, such as a visit to the Dubai Frame, or with the classic desert safari for a second adventure (read our desert safari guide). Want to see Dubai from the water instead? See our private yacht guide.

How to book with CanalMarket Travel

Choose your date on the Zipline at Ras Al Khaimah tour page and send your booking, or browse all our tours in the UAE. We confirm availability, the ride option and the requirements for your group before you pay, and you pay securely by card. Questions first? Contact us by email or WhatsApp and we will help you plan your day.