Marjan Lifestyle is expanding the trail and climbing infrastructure on Jebel Jais, with a series of new routes, trail rehabilitation work and multi-day journeys in development on the UAE’s highest mountain.
The centrepiece is The Grand Loop, an 80 km flagship multi-day route that will connect existing trails with new links across the mountain, designed for hiking, climbing, camping, cycling and general exploration.
A second major project, a five-day Via Ferrata, will span up to 20 km across four sections of varying difficulty along the cliffs of northern Ras Al Khaimah. The route draws on the Via Delle Bocchette in the Brenta Dolomites for inspiration and will be supported by a network of mountain shelters accessible only on foot.
Work is also underway to develop new climbing routes and establish a consistent management framework for the mountain’s climbing network.
Separately, trail rehabilitation at Wadi Khammed, known as Hidden Oasis, is introducing professional trail-building techniques including grade mitigation, improved rock crossings and wayfinding signage. Mountain rescue support will be provided across the trail network.
The programme has been shaped by a biodiversity assessment carried out by AJAZ Environment Consultants, which recorded 45 plant species, 29 bird species and eight mammal species across the Jebel Jais survey area.
The assessment documented species including the Arabian Red Fox, Afro-Asiatic Wildcat, Brandt’s Hedgehog and Arabian Spiny Mouse. Marjan Lifestyle said the findings will inform trail planning, habitat protection and environmental monitoring, and will serve as a baseline for future surveys.
“The opportunity on Jebel Jais is to make the mountain itself the destination. 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. This starts with how the trails are built, how people navigate them, how climbing is managed and how we protect the environment around them. We want to create a network that people can enjoy for years to come without losing the character that makes Jebel Jais unique,” Donald Bremner, CEO of Marjan Lifestyle said in a statement.
Trail and climbing improvements are continuing through the 2026/27 season, with temporary wayfinding signage planned ahead of season opening.
