For those who prefer their mountain escapes with a little more adventure, Jebel Jais is set to offer plenty of new reasons to explore beyond the usual viewpoints and day trips.

Ras Al Khaimah is expanding its trail and climbing network across the UAE’s highest mountain, with plans that could turn Jebel Jais into a destination for longer, more immersive outdoor experiences.

At the centre of the development is the Grand Loop, an 80km multi-day mountain journey designed to connect existing trails with new sections. The route will open up opportunities for hiking, climbing, camping, cycling and exploring the mountain landscape at a slower pace.

A second major project will take adventure seekers across the cliffs of northern Ras Al Khaimah. The planned five-day Via Ferrata will stretch for up to 20km across four sections of varying difficulty, with mountain shelters accessible only on foot supporting the journey.

The developments are being led by Marjan Lifestyle, a subsidiary of Marjan, which is also involved in major projects across the emirate, including Al Marjan Island, Marjan Beach and RAK Central.

Beyond the headline projects, work is also under way to improve the wider trail network. At Wadi Khammed–Hidden Oasis, trail rehabilitation includes upgrades to existing sections and the creation of new connecting routes. Professional trail-building techniques, improved wayfinding and signage are being introduced, with trail builders working on elements such as trail width, grade mitigation and rock crossings.

New climbing routes are also being developed, alongside efforts to establish standards for a more consistently managed climbing network. Mountain rescue support is planned across the network in coordination with the relevant emergency authorities.

The expansion is also being shaped by environmental research. A biodiversity assessment by Ajaz Environment Consultants recorded 45 plant species, 29 bird species and eight mammal species across the Jebel Jais survey area. Among the wildlife documented were the Arabian red fox, Afro-Asiatic wildcat, Brandt’s hedgehog and Arabian spiny mouse.

The findings will help guide trail planning, habitat protection and future environmental monitoring, providing a baseline for further surveys as the network develops.

“The opportunity on Jebel Jais is to make the mountain itself the destination,” said Donald Bremner, CEO of Marjan Lifestyle. “The Grand Loop and Via Ferrata give people the ability to experience it over a longer journey, but getting the fundamentals right is just as important.”

He added that the focus extends beyond creating new routes to ensuring that trails are built thoughtfully, visitors can navigate them safely, climbing is managed responsibly and the surrounding environment is protected.

The trail and climbing improvements are expected to continue through the 2026–27 season, gradually giving visitors more ways to experience Ras Al Khaimah’s mountain landscape.