Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Introduces Steeper HIGHLANDER Summit Hiking Challenge in UAE This November

Image generated with Ai

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Introduces Steeper HIGHLANDER Summit Hiking Challenge in UAE This November, bringing a fresh outdoor adventure to the Hajar Mountains. Scheduled for 21–22 November 2026, the event offers challenging one-day and two-day hiking routes, mountain camping and scenic trails, strengthening the emirate’s growing appeal among adventure travellers worldwide.

Ras Al Khaimah Prepares for a New Mountain Hiking Experience

Ras Al Khaimah is preparing to welcome outdoor enthusiasts as HIGHLANDER introduces its Summit Series to the United Arab Emirates for the first time. Taking place on 21–22 November 2026, the event offers a shorter but steeper alternative to traditional long-distance hiking experiences.

The new challenge takes participants through the rugged Hajar Mountains, following ancient village paths, rocky valleys and elevated trails near Jebel Yabana. Unlike conventional hiking events that focus on covering longer distances, the Summit Series places greater emphasis on climbing, descending and exploring mountainous terrain.

Starting and finishing at Bear Grylls Adventure Camp, the event aims to attract experienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking physically demanding adventures in Ras Al Khaimah.

Two Hiking Challenges Designed for Different Fitness Levels

HIGHLANDER Summit Series 2026 introduces two formats for participants aged 18 and above. Both experiences combine mountain exploration with physical endurance, allowing hikers to select a route that matches their abilities.

The HIGHLANDER 1DAY challenge takes place on Sunday, 22 November. Participants will cover seven kilometres, with approximately 400 metres of elevation gain and loss. The route reaches a maximum altitude of 600 metres.

The HIGHLANDER 2DAY challenge runs across 21–22 November. Covering approximately 15 kilometres, it includes 845 metres of elevation gain and 812 metres of descent. Participants will reach approximately 1,190 metres and spend the night at a mountain camp situated around 1,050 metres above sea level.

Neither format is a race. Instead, participants are encouraged to focus on endurance, resilience and the surrounding natural environment.

Rocky Canyons and Panoramic Trails Shape the One-Day Route

The one-day experience begins at Wadi Khammed, where hikers enter a striking canyon surrounded by towering rock formations.

The trail passes boulders, natural stone ledges and narrow mountain passages before climbing steeply towards a designated checkpoint.

Participants then follow an elevated balcony trail offering sweeping views across the surrounding landscape.

Although the seven-kilometre distance may appear manageable, the uneven terrain requires stamina, balance and careful footing. Some sections involve scrambling over low, dry rock obstacles.

Two-Day Adventure Combines Historic Villages and Mountain Camping

The two-day route introduces a more demanding experience through Ras Al Khaimah’s remote mountain settlements.

On the first day, participants follow traditional stone pathways past Derat Takem, a mountain village known for its agricultural terraces.

The trail continues towards Derat Halak, where hikers establish their overnight camp at approximately 1,050 metres.

Those arriving within the permitted time can undertake an optional walk towards a viewpoint below Jebel Yabana, reaching approximately 1,190 metres on the UAE side.

The following morning, participants descend along rocky ridges, narrow mountain paths and a wadi gully before joining the balcony trail.

Two-day hikers must carry their own food, water and equipment throughout the event and reach camp before sunset.

Safety and Environmental Responsibility Remain Central

Although the Summit Series follows a self-guided format, organisers will provide clearly marked trails, checkpoints, marshals and first-aid assistance.

Time limits will apply at designated locations to support safe movement through the mountains.

Participants who cannot continue will receive assistance under established withdrawal procedures.

Environmental protection also forms an important part of the experience. HIGHLANDER follows its Leave No Trace philosophy, encouraging participants to remove their waste and protect fragile mountain ecosystems.

The initiative combines physical activity with responsible outdoor recreation.

Summit Series Supports Ras Al Khaimah’s Adventure Tourism Growth

HIGHLANDER began in Croatia in 2017 and has expanded into an international hiking series, organising more than 30 events annually across over 20 countries.

Five years after its introduction to Ras Al Khaimah, the event continues to support the emirate’s position as an adventure tourism destination.

The new Summit Series adds another outdoor experience to the destination’s tourism offering, highlighting its mountain landscapes, traditional settlements and hiking opportunities.

For tourism businesses, the event also creates opportunities to promote outdoor accommodation, guided experiences and longer adventure-focused holidays.

Registration Opens for November Hiking Challenge

Registration is open for both Summit Series formats.

The one-day experience starts at AED 250 (approximately US$68), while the two-day challenge starts at AED 550 (approximately US$150).

Participants can also register in teams of two or three.

An early-bird promotion was available until 15 October 2026. As that deadline has passed, travellers should check current registration prices and availability directly with the organisers.

With its demanding trails and distinctive mountain setting, the Summit Series offers another reason for adventure travellers to explore Ras Al Khaimah this November.

The HIGHLANDER Summit Series marks another step in Ras Al Khaimah’s adventure tourism development. By combining challenging mountain trails, overnight camping, traditional villages and responsible hiking practices, the November event offers travellers a distinctive outdoor experience while showcasing the natural beauty and tourism potential of the UAE’s northern mountains.