Best Mountain Escapes in the UAE

Altitude brings noticeably cooler temperatures, which makes the mountains comfortable even on the shoulders of summer. Add big horizon views, winding scenic drives and quiet trails, and they're a brilliant antidote to the city. Some spots are an easy drive-up viewpoint; others are full-day hikes — there's something for every level.

Mountain terrain is rocky, exposed and steep in places. Wear proper hiking shoes, carry far more water than you'd expect (there's rarely any on the trail), start early, and turn back with plenty of daylight to spare. Tell someone your route, download offline maps, and don't rely on phone signal. Loose rock and sudden drop-offs mean this is not the place to wander off-trail.

Sturdy footwear, sun protection, a hat, two-plus litres of water per person for a half-day (more for longer), snacks, a first-aid kit, a windproof layer for exposed ridges and a fully charged phone with offline maps. Each location page has a packing checklist you can tailor to your trip.

October to April is ideal for hiking, with comfortable daytime temperatures. The higher elevations can be genuinely cold and windy in winter, so bring a warm layer. Summer hiking at altitude is possible early in the morning but the heat lower down makes the approach tough — plan accordingly.