Nestled in the heart of Al Ain, the UAE’s Garden City, Jebel Hafeet is a natural wonder that promises adventure and tranquility alike. Rising over 1200 metres, with its winding roads and stunning views, this iconic mountain is perfect for a scenic road trip, with lots of history to uncover along the way. Whether you’re seeking thrills or a peaceful escape, Jebel Hafeet has something extraordinary for you to discover around every corner.
Jebel Hafeet’s geographical and historical significance
Standing at 1249 metres, Jebel Hafeet Mountain is the highest in Abu Dhabi and the second highest in the UAE. The peak stands at the border of the UAE and Oman, connecting the two nations geographically and culturally. Its towering presence made it a strategic landmark throughout history, serving as a vantage point for ancient settlements and trade routes.
The mountain’s foothills are home to the Hafit Tombs, a collection of over 500 ancient burial sites dating back over 5,000 years, highlighting its historical significance as a hub for early human civilization in the region. Visitors to the mountain can take advantage of guided hikes to get up close to the tombs and get an insight into the lives, traditions and craftsmanship of ancient communities. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2011, Jebel Hafeet Mountain is both a cultural and historical treasure in the UAE.
Jebel Hafeet activities and attractions
Navigating the Jebel Hafeet mountain road
The 12km winding road with more than 60 twists and turns to reach the summit of Jebel Hafeet is an activity in itself! The drive is truly magical and has been acclaimed as one of the world’s greatest driving roads. We specifically recommend driving up in the late afternoon, just in time for sunset. We’ve never seen views quite like it, with the sun going down over the Al Ain landscape and the rocky mountains; truly spectacular.
Fun fact: if you’re a cat person, you’ll be happy to know there are lots of friendly and furry guests at the viewpoint on top of the mountain!
Conquering Jebel Hafeet on two wheels
If you’re brave (and have the stamina), the mountain path is also popular among cyclists. Every year in January, there is a Jebel Hafeet Challenge, where cyclists compete to climb the 8% ascent of the mountain – not for the faint-hearted! The views from the top are quite the reward for all of that hard work, though, and the descent must be truly breathtaking.
Hiking trails through the mountain
If you’re not too confident on two wheels, there are plenty of hiking opportunities to check out through the Jebel Hafeet Desert Park, located at the foot of the mountain. The park is a haven for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike, with hiking trails suited to all skill and ability levels. Whether you want a leisurely walk along well-marked paths or a more rugged trek along the desert and mountainous terrain, you’ll be able to witness the area’s rich biodiversity.
A night under the stars
If you want to extend your stay for more than just one day, Jebel Hafeet Desert Park also offers camping options. The park offers three camping styles:
- Basic – you will need to bring all of your supplies and equipment.
- Fully serviced – in a camp showcasing traditional Bedouin tents, with breakfast included.
- Bubble glamping – fully furnished 5-star glamping tents complete with air conditioning.
Any of the above options will give you a memorable stay, with a night under the glistening stars of Al Ain. The camp is open all year round, but we would recommend visiting in the cooler months, from around November until April.
Soak up the serenity
For a spot of relaxation, you can also find Green Mubazzarah at the base of Jebel Hafeet mountain, which is a form of natural hot springs where you can take a dip in the bubbling mineral water. This really feels like nature’s spa in the outdoors, and the setting is so serene and relaxing. Remember to bring a towel and even a picnic with you to enjoy the lush greenery for the day.
Visitor information and tips
Jebel Hafeet Mountain is located around 170km from both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and it should take around 2 hours to get there from each city. From Dubai, take the E66 directly to Al Ain, and from Abu Dhabi, take the E22 to head east towards Al Ain. From both directions, once you reach Al Ain, follow the signs to Jebel Hafeet. You shouldn’t have any issues getting there using GPS applications, which can also be helpful in providing real-time traffic updates.
As we mentioned before, the best time to visit Al Ain and Jebel Hafeet is in the cooler winter months, from November to April. Of course, you can venture here in the hotter months, but remember to bring plenty of water, wear cool clothing, and take plenty of breaks from the sun if you decide to go hiking in the summer (although we don’t advise this – it can be dangerous with the high temperatures)!
An unforgettable adventure
Al Ain and Jebel Hafeet truly shine as one of the UAE’s hidden gems, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. A final tip from us – don’t forget to bring your best photography gear, even if it’s just your smartphone. The sunset views over the rocky mountains are simply unforgettable, painting the horizon in orange hues. It’s a moment that deserves to be captured and cherished forever.