What is Via Ferrata and Where Can You Do it In The UAE

Looking for that exhilarating rush of adrenaline in the UAE? Look no further than Via Ferrata Jebel Jais. 

Translating to "iron path" in Italian, Via Ferrata is perfect for adventure seekers. Essentially, it’s a protected climbing route on a mountain face that uses steel cables, ladders, lanyards and other fixed anchors to aid climbers. Wondering what is Via Ferrata? It’s an exciting combination of hiking and climbing that opens up access to thrilling landscapes.

Cable cars, ziplining and traditional hikes aside, this is another thrilling way to discover mountainous terrains. The best part? It doesn’t require extensive experience! 

For those attempting the same, it’s a unique blend of hiking and climbing, providing access to stunning landscapes and viewpoints that might otherwise be inaccessible. With different route options and combinations available, signing up for just this unlocks access to a host of adventure sports in Ras Al Khaimah.

So, where can you experience Via Ferrata in the UAE? At Jebel Jais is Ras Al Khaimah, of course. 

How does the Via Ferrata work at Jebel Jais?

With Jebel Jais being synonymous with thrills, it’s unsurprising that the only Via Ferrata in the UAE is located at the mountain in Ras Al Khaimah. 

The only officially recognised Via Ferrata in the UAE, it’s an unmissable experience to say the least. Even more so, being on the highest mountain in the UAE as part of the larger Jebel Jais adventure park. 

For the uninitiated, the Jebel Jais mountain peak resides in the northernmost Emirate of the UAE. It shares a border with Oman, and rises spectacularly from the Arabian Gulf to an impressive 1,934 metres above sea level. 

Apart from sweeping panoramic views, Jebel Jais is also known as the home to some of the country's most extreme mountain sports. From the Jais Flight being the longest zipline in the world to the Jais Sledder and more, there are plenty of activities to keep adventurers of all ages and skill levels entertained. 

An undeniable highlight of course, being the Jais Via Ferrata, where accessible adventure meets the extreme. It’s the perfect alternative to trying any of the activities in isolation and getting those endorphins going! 

The experience offers the ultimate combination of hiking, climbing, and zip-lining along the secured route.

Apart from exploring the Via Ferrata itself, there’s plenty to do around the mountain. From diving into heritage at the Dhayah Fort to visiting Al Rams Corniche or even fuelling up at Liwan Restaurant, there’s no dearth of activities at Jebel Jais! 

Is Via Ferrata Safe? Or is there eligibility criteria for the Via Ferrata experience? 

While skill levels aren’t an issue when it comes to the Via Ferrata Jebel Jais, there are certain limitations to keep in mind to be able to complete the same safely. 

The weight requirement is a minimum of 40 kg to a maximum of 120 kg, while the height requirement is 122 cm at the least. 

The Via Ferrata is completely safe and undertaken with experts at hand to ensure maximum comfort. While prescribed for ages of 18 and over, certain exceptions can be made. Children under the age of 18, but over 12, who meet the height and weight guidelines can be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

It’s essential to note, however, that participants must have a signed waiver to participate.

It goes without saying, of course, given the demanding nature of the sport, that each participant must be in peak medical condition. In addition, you must not be under the influence of narcotics, spirits, or other substances that impair judgment.

The participants’ well-being is paramount here, as is evident in the elaborate procedures. To start off, the mountaineering guides will fit you with your Via Ferrata harness and provide you with all your tools before heading out in the wilderness. 

At all points during your climb, you’re securely harnessed to the complex array of steel cables and ladder rungs permanently fixed into the rockfaces every five or so metres. The three zip lines will provide you access across otherwise hard-to-reach sections of the mountain. 

The longest one is the one you need to particularly attempt, as it flies you directly over the main Jebel Jais road that leads into the mountains! If scenic views of Jebel Jais and Hajar mountains, along with the rush of the Via Ferrata, sound right up your alley, you need to book your spot right away. 

More on the Jebel Jais Via Ferrata

Once you walk through the full safety briefing and explore the various routes, it’s time to make a choice and take the plunge! 

The Via Ferrata in Ras al Khaimah offers options of the Ledge Walk, the Middle Path, and, for those looking to take it up a notch, the Julphar Scare. 

Ledge Walk

New to the whole Via Ferrata experience or just a tad bit nervous? Either way, the Ledge Walk is the perfect choice for those looking to challenge themselves just the right amount.

The hike takes around four hours to complete, starting with a gentle climb. The more challenging vertical stretch leads you to the first and shortest zip-line via secure iron steps. Next up is a gradual slope culminating at the second-longest 60-metre zip-line, followed by the exhilarating 300-metre zip-line.

Middle Path 

Roughly three and a half hours, explore three vertical routes and a restricted horizontal climb rising 60 metres from the wadi bed. It then joins up to the Ledge Walk and the first zip-line, continuing on that route till you hit the ground again! 

Julphar Scare

This one’s got daredevils written all over it! Best experienced than researched, it’s going to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime and a thirst for more adventure sports right after! It’s the shortest and perhaps hardest route, just 90 minutes long. You’ll climb vertically for 120 metres using the ladder rungs across five different sections. The journey ends with the Jais Flight and views of the gorgeous wadi, of course.

And while none might compare to the Via Ferrata thrills at Jebel Jais, the versatility of the experience will always have you coming back for more. Another pro? The rush will always hit differently! 

Details: 

Prices: Start from AED 325
For reservations, call +971 565 015 831