Camping in Jebel Jais in 2026: Overnight, Free Spots, Bookings, Rules & More

Camping Jebel Jais remains one of the most popular outdoor escapes in Ras Al Khaimah, especially during the cooler months. But 2026 looks slightly different from previous seasons.

After intense rainfall between December 17–19, 2025, the mountain was temporarily closed due to landslide risk, flooding and road inspections. Jebel Jais officially reopened on January 31, 2026, though some attractions resumed slightly later.

• Where Is Jebel Jais & Why It’s Popular for Camping
• Official Status & Entry Rules (2026 Update)
• Is Free Camping at Jebel Jais Still Allowed?
• Public & Private Campsite Options
• Rules, Regulations & Fines
• Booking Guidance & Best Times
• Practical Camping Checklist
• What’s Open Right Now?
• Key Takeaways
• FAQs

Where Is Jebel Jais & Why It’s Popular for Camping

Jebel Jais is located in Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate of the UAE, and is the highest peak in the country, rising to over 1,900 metres above sea level. The drive from Dubai takes roughly two hours via a fully paved mountain road.

To be precise, it is ideally situated in Wadi Shehah, Ras Al Khaimah.

Unlike desert camping, camping in Jebel Jais offers higher elevation, cooler temperatures, and panoramic views above the clouds during winter mornings. The higher altitude means sharper temperature drops after sunset, stronger winds and a completely different terrain.

For many residents, it’s the go-to mountain escape when winter arrives, especially for those looking to combine outdoor adventure with nearby coastal or residential areas.

Explore the Available Properties for Sale in Ras Al Khaimah

Official Status & Entry Rules

Following the heavy rainfall in mid-December 2025, Jebel Jais was temporarily closed for safety inspections, road repairs and landslide assessments. The mountain officially reopened to visitors on January 31, 2026, but access is now more controlled than in previous seasons.

Entry is no longer completely open-drive. Here’s how it works:

• Visiting attractions or restaurants? → A confirmed booking is required.
• Hiking, cycling or sightseeing independently? → You must purchase an AED 10 Viewing Deck Park ticket at the security entrance.

Security checkpoints verify bookings or tickets before allowing vehicles to proceed further up the mountain. Visitors without confirmation may be turned back at the gate.

Not all attractions reopened simultaneously. While general access resumed at the end of January, Jais Sky Tour reopened slightly later on February 7, 2026.

Is Free Camping at Jebel Jais Still Allowed?

Yes, but only in certain areas.

Free roadside camping Jebel Jais is still tolerated at lower viewpoints along the mountain road, especially around Viewpoints 5–8. These areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis and do not have formal pitch allocations.

However, conditions have changed slightly after the storms:

• Some upper summit roads remain partially restricted.
• Areas above the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp may be subject to temporary closures.
• Topmost viewpoints may not always be accessible.

Lower elevation zones near the Bear Grylls area are generally open, though services are limited.

Avoid Wadi Camping

Camping in wadis is strongly discouraged. Even if dry at arrival, flash flooding remains a risk after rainfall. Choose elevated, stable ground instead.

Public & Private Campsite Options

If roadside camping feels too exposed or basic, Jebel Jais offers more structured alternatives. These range from simple government-managed sites to fully serviced private camps, depending on how much comfort you want.

Visitors often combine their mountain trip with a stay in nearby communities such as Al Hamra Village, especially if planning a longer weekend.

Government-Designated Public Campsites

There are three designated public campsites on Jebel Jais designed to provide a more organised camping experience without turning it into a luxury stay.

These sites typically offer:

• Level ground for easier tent setup
• Basic toilet facilities
• Shaded areas for tents or sitting spaces
• Free parking nearby

Facilities remain simple; don’t expect resort-style amenities, but the layout is more practical than informal roadside viewpoints. These campsites are especially suitable for families, first-time campers or visitors who want some structure while still keeping costs minimal.

Camp 1770 (Premium Camping)

Located in Ras Al Khaimah at approximately 1,770 metres above sea level, Camp 1770 is the highest organised camping experience on Jebel Jais.

Access is arranged through licensed operators and generally includes:

• Fully pre-set tents
• Meals and refreshments
• Guided hikes
• Transport coordination to and from the camp

This is not a free camping option. Instead, it’s a curated mountain experience where logistics are handled for you. It suits visitors who want elevation, views and atmosphere without managing equipment, cooking or setup.

Bear Grylls Explorers Camp

Situated lower on the mountain, Bear Grylls Explorers Camp offers a more structured, activity-based stay.

Accommodation options include:

• Cabin-style rooms
• Tent-cabin hybrid units
• Proper washroom facilities
• Organised adventure activities

This option appeals to visitors who want the mountain environment but prefer comfort and programming over traditional camping. It eliminates the need to bring your own gear while still offering an outdoor setting.

Rules, Regulations & What Can Get You Fined

Camping at Jebel Jais falls under UAE environmental protection laws, and enforcement is taken seriously. The mountain is not just a recreational site; it’s protected terrain, and authorities actively monitor activity to prevent environmental damage.

Patrol vehicles and inspection teams are common on busy weekends and public holidays. While most visitors camp responsibly, violations can result in on-the-spot fines.

You may face penalties for:

• Littering (fines can begin around AED 500 and escalate for repeated or serious offences)
• Damaging vegetation or natural rock formations
• Cutting trees or collecting firewood
• Lighting open fires in restricted areas
• Cooking directly on protected ground surfaces
• Leaving food waste or rubbish behind

Improper campfires, in particular, are treated seriously due to wildfire risk and long-term environmental impact.

The principle is straightforward: Jebel Jais is shared public land, not a disposable campsite. Bring what you need, respect the environment and leave the area exactly as you found it.

Booking Guidance & Best Times for Camping Jebel Jais

If you’re planning something more structured than roadside camping, advance planning becomes important. Attractions, restaurants and private camps operate under controlled entry rules, and spontaneous visits are no longer guaranteed. Knowing how bookings work and what requires confirmation before arrival can save you from being turned back at the security gate.

Booking Attractions or Private Camps

Bookings for attractions, Camp 1770 and Bear Grylls camps are made through official channels or licensed operators. Entry gates verify confirmations.

If you’re camping independently, no formal permit is usually required, but access control rules still apply.

When to Camp

Timing makes a noticeable difference when camping at Jebel Jais. The experience can vary dramatically depending on the season, the day of the week, and even the time you arrive. Cooler months bring better weather but heavier crowds, while quieter periods offer more space but require careful planning around temperatures and daylight.

Winter (November–March):

• Peak season
• Cold nights (temperatures can drop below 10°C)
• Most crowded

Weekdays:

• Quieter
• Easier to secure roadside spots

Practical Camping Checklist

Camping at Jebel Jais requires more preparation than desert camping, as services become more limited as you gain elevation. Once you’re higher up the mountain, there are no convenience stores, supermarkets or petrol stations, so whatever you need, you should bring with you.

Before heading up, make sure you have:

• Enough drinking water, especially for overnight stays
• Food supplies, including snacks and breakfast items 
• Warm layers, as mountain temperatures drop sharply after sunset 
• A proper sleeping bag rated for cold conditions, not just a light summer blanket
• A stable tent with good wind resistance
• Power bank and headlamps
• Basic first aid kit, including bandages and any personal medication
• Proper hiking boots
• Trash bags to carry all waste out

There are no fuel stations at the summit, and the drive up is long and winding. Plan fuel stops before ascending and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.

What’s Currently Open?

Access across Jebel Jais has largely stabilised since the January reopening, but certain upper sections and attraction zones remain subject to booking controls and periodic restrictions. Conditions can shift depending on weather, maintenance work or visitor volume, so it’s helpful to understand which areas are fully operational and which may still have limited access before planning an overnight stay.

Conditions can change depending on the weather and ongoing maintenance.

Key Takeaways

The mountain officially reopened on January 31, 2026, and access now requires either a confirmed attraction booking or an AED 10 Viewing Deck Park ticket at the entrance gate. Free camping in Jebel Jais is tolerated in permitted areas, though facilities are minimal and environmental regulations are strictly enforced, with fines for littering or fire violations starting at around AED 500. Visitors should avoid camping in wadis due to the risk of flash flooding and should always check road and weather updates before heading up.

FAQs

Share