Jebel Jais is one of the most spectacular mountain destinations in the UAE and the highest peak in the country, rising to about 1,934 meters above sea level. It forms part of the Hajar Mountains, which extend through the UAE and Oman. Because of its elevation, temperatures at Jebel Jais are generally cooler than in the plains below, often around 10°C cooler.
For people living in the UAE, Jebel Jais is a wonderful escape from the heat and busy city life. The winding mountain roads, dramatic landscapes, cooler air, and spectacular sunrise and sunset views make it a popular destination for outdoor adventures.
Camping is also part of the Jebel Jais experience, although the rules and available camping options can change. Today, Ras Al Khaimah officially promotes designated mountain camping experiences such as Camp 1770, while visitors using informal camping areas should always check the latest local requirements before setting up a tent.
For us, camping overnight at Jebel Jais was an unforgettable experience.
How to Get There
From Dubai, our drive toward Ras Al Khaimah took roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and where you are coming from. Once we reached the mountain, the drive toward the higher sections took another 20–30 minutes.
The drive itself was beautiful, but I have to admit that the curvy and winding mountain roads weren’t exactly my favorite part! 😂
If you get motion sickness easily, like I do, you may want to prepare yourself before going up the mountain.
Fortunately, there are places where you can stop and take a short break. During our trip, we stopped at a small cafeteria and enjoyed some Karak Chai before continuing our drive.
That little tea break was exactly what I needed before tackling the winding road ahead!
Our Overnight Camping Experience
We camped overnight in one of the areas available to campers at the time.
We went during the weekend, so we already expected the place to be busy. By late afternoon, many groups had already arrived and were setting up their tents.
We were lucky enough to find a good spot where we could put up our tents and park our cars nearby.
During the afternoon, we enjoyed the beautiful mountain scenery and watched the sunset. Once evening arrived, we prepared our barbecue, gathered around our campsite, and spent time talking and enjoying the cool weather.
Later that night, we spent some time stargazing.
There’s something completely different about looking at the night sky from the mountains compared with looking at it from the middle of Dubai.
Camping During the Weekend: What to Expect
The main downside of camping at Jebel Jais during weekends and peak winter periods is the crowd.
By the time we arrived at around 6 in the evening, the area was already packed with campers.
Some groups were also celebrating and playing loud music, chatting, and singing late into the night.
Of course, everyone has their own reason for camping, and some people simply want to have fun with their family and friends. But when you’re camping in a shared area, it’s important to remember that other people may be looking for a quieter experience.
So, if you want a more peaceful camping trip, consider visiting during weekdays or less busy periods, and always follow the latest local camping rules.
Current Ras Al Khaimah camping guidance specifically encourages campers to keep noise levels low and respect neighboring camps.
“A bad day camping is still better than a good day working.”
And here we were, shivering through the beautiful night at the top of Jebel Jais! 😊
Facilities Around Jebel Jais
One thing that made our trip more convenient was having access to basic facilities in the developed areas of Jebel Jais.
However, facilities vary depending on exactly where you camp, so don’t assume that toilets, restaurants, lighting, or parking will be available right beside your tent.
Parking and Entrance
During our visit, we didn’t pay an entrance fee or parking fee for the area where we camped.
However, this information is based on our older experience and should not be treated as a current price guarantee. Rules, access, and fees can change depending on the site and activity.
For current visitors, it’s best to check with Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism authorities or the specific facility before traveling.
Toilets
There were toilet facilities available at developed areas around Jebel Jais.
However, when the mountain becomes crowded, expect queues.
If you’re camping farther away from developed areas, don’t assume that a restroom will be nearby. Bring whatever supplies you need to remain comfortable and prepared.
Dining Facilities
There are cafés and food outlets in developed areas of Jebel Jais, particularly around the main visitor and activity areas.
During our trip, we enjoyed stopping for tea and refreshments.
Still, if you’re planning an overnight camping trip, bring enough food and drinking water with you rather than depending entirely on restaurants or cafés.
“There’s no Wi-Fi in the mountains, but you’ll find no better connection.”
“Camp more. Worry less.”
Wake Up to a Beautiful Sunrise
One of my favorite moments was the morning.
When we stepped outside our tents, the sun was beginning to light up the mountains.
The cold morning air, the golden sunlight, and the mountains stretching into the distance created a view that was completely different from anything we normally see in the city.
You could see the mountainsides, roads, and settlements far below.
It was one of those moments when you simply stop, look around, and appreciate where you are.
“Time spent camping isn’t time wasted; it’s time invested.”
“Away is a place where it’s not about the money you spend. It’s about the moments you share.”
Things to Remember Before Camping at Jebel Jais
Because this article is based on our older camping experience, some of the details below may have changed. Here’s what I would recommend keeping in mind today:
1. Check the latest camping rules
Don’t assume that every open area on Jebel Jais can be used for overnight camping.
Ras Al Khaimah’s current guidance recommends using managed camps or areas where overnight stays are clearly authorized and avoiding restricted locations.
Today, one official mountain camping option is Camp 1770, located at around 1,770 meters above sea level on Jebel Jais. It offers overnight accommodation and organized outdoor experiences.
2. Be prepared for cold temperatures
Jebel Jais can be significantly colder than the UAE’s lowland areas. Current tourism information notes that temperatures are typically around 10°C cooler than elsewhere in Ras Al Khaimah.
Bring warm layers, blankets, and appropriate sleeping equipment, especially during winter.
3. Fill your fuel tank before heading up
We strongly recommend starting your mountain trip with enough fuel.
Don’t depend on finding a fuel station once you’re already far up the mountain.
4. Bring your own lighting
Remote camping areas may not have the same lighting as developed visitor areas.
Bring flashlights, headlamps, spare batteries, and campsite lighting.
5. Bring enough food and water
Even though there are restaurants and cafés in developed sections of Jebel Jais, your camping spot may be far from them.
Pack enough drinking water, food, snacks, and basic cooking supplies for your entire stay.
6. Wear appropriate shoes
The mountain terrain can be rocky and uneven.
Wear proper closed shoes, particularly if you plan to walk, hike, or explore the surrounding area.
7. Be careful with fire and BBQs
If you are permitted to use a fire or BBQ at your chosen camping location, use it responsibly and never leave it unattended.
Current Ras Al Khaimah camping guidance emphasizes fire safety and prohibits setting fires directly on the ground.
8. Respect other campers
Keep music and conversations at a reasonable level, especially late at night.
Camping is much more enjoyable when everyone respects each other’s space. Current RAK guidance specifically advises campers to keep noise levels low.
9. Leave no trace
Bring garbage bags and take everything with you when you leave.
Don’t leave food containers, plastic, charcoal, bottles, or other rubbish behind.
A beautiful mountain environment should remain beautiful for the next person who visits.
“Take only memories, leave only footprints.”
The Takeaway
Camping at Jebel Jais gave us a wonderful opportunity to escape the city and experience something completely different.
From the winding drive up the mountain to the sunset, barbecue, stargazing, cold night, and beautiful sunrise, every part of the trip gave us something to remember.
Yes, it was crowded.
Yes, it was cold.
And yes, we were tired afterward.
But that’s part of the adventure.
Sometimes, the best memories aren’t created in luxurious hotels or expensive resorts. They’re created while sitting around a campfire with family and friends, laughing about random things, looking at the stars, and waking up to a breathtaking view.
Final Thoughts
Camping reminds us that we don’t always need much to have a meaningful experience.
A tent, some food, warm clothes, good friends, and a beautiful view can already be enough.
Jebel Jais gave us exactly that.
And while the mountain has become increasingly popular, I hope that everyone who visits will remember to protect the environment and respect fellow campers.
Enjoy the mountains, but leave them beautiful.
“The mountains are calling and I must go.”
— John Muir
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
— Psalm 121:1–2
Final Thoughts
There’s something humbling about standing on top of a mountain and realizing just how small we are compared with the world around us.
The quiet surroundings, the cold breeze, the stars above, and the sunrise in the morning all gave us a chance to slow down and appreciate the simple things we sometimes take for granted.
For me, that’s what camping is really about.
It’s not just about where you sleep. It’s about the memories you wake up with. ❤️
Sources:
- Visit Ras Al Khaimah – Jebel Jais — Current information about Jebel Jais, its elevation, mountain environment, and temperature difference.
- Visit Ras Al Khaimah – Camping Rules & Safety Guidelines — Current guidance on permitted camping areas, safety, noise, fires, vehicles, and waste.
- Visit Ras Al Khaimah – Camp 1770 — Current information about the official high-altitude mountain camping experience on Jebel Jais.
- Visit Ras Al Khaimah – Destination Fact Sheet — Tourism information about Jebel Jais and mountain camping options.
- Visit Ras Al Khaimah – Camping Guidelines — Previous official guidance covering camping areas, fire safety, cleanliness, noise, and vehicle rules.
Important: This article is based partly on our personal camping experience and reflects conditions and information from the time of our visit. Jebel Jais access, camping permissions, facilities, fees, and safety rules can change. Check the latest official Ras Al Khaimah guidance before planning your trip.
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Originally Published: February 3, 2022
Updated: August 2026
That looks like fun. We haven’t been camping in so many years!
Camping is always fund when you do that with people you love, i look forward to camping very soon
Stunning landscape, it made me think of the grand canyon! Love the idea of unplugging from wifi to relax
oh, I can see that you had a blast with your camping. Such a good experience and I love the place
Ooohhh…I haven’t been to the Jebel mountains. I’d love to be here, though….as I camp more! It’s something I rarely do.
What an interesting place to go camping. How cold was it there when you went? It is interesting how barren the landscape is in this area.
This is fun and omg! The view is amazing. Happy to see that you had a great time with friends. We all need adventures like this. Thank you for sharing your experience.
This is interesting, I have went on a camping trip before and it was so much fun. This place is perfect for camping.