Ras Al Khaimah is upping the ante in its quest to be the Middle East’s adventure tourism capital with a new Jebel Jais observation deck close to the summit of the UAE’s highest peak, which rises 1,934 metres above sea level.
The Jebel Jais Observation Deck will boast a series of viewing platforms to experience the awe-inspiring vistas, bird life, flora and fauna of the emirate’s Al Hajar Mountain range, which borders Oman.
In addition to several viewing platforms, the Jebel Jais Observation Deck will serve as a base camp for hikers and bikers looking to test themselves on the rugged mountain range.
The facility, which will also feature a multi-purpose events arena, picnic areas, numerous walking paths and a dedicated food truck zone, is due to open to the public in October.
The appeal will extend beyond the very active. The deck will let visitors take in stunning sea and mountain views, and the magnificent sunrises and sunsets which cast a dancing performance of light and shadow over the area every morning and evening. The Jebel Jais Observation Deck will also include a versatile events arena and a permanent area for food trucks serving members of the public and international guests who want to experience the fresh mountain air in temperatures that are traditionally around 10 degrees lower than the UAE average,
explains Haitham Mattar, CEO, RAKTDA.
The deck, which will be lit by solar energy, has been designed by Naga and is being built on RAKTDA’s behalf by Botanical some 1,300 metres above sea level. With ground work already underway, Mattar revealed the site’s long-term sustainability has played a key role in its design and operational functionality.
As part of its Ras al Khaimah’s Vision 2019 tourism strategy, which aims to attract one million visitors by the end of next year, RAKTDA is investing in a range of adventure and wellness products which leverage the emirate’s superb array of natural assets, with a key focus on Jebel Jais and the surrounding area.
The Jebel Jais Via Ferrata (Iron Path), which sees enthusiasts climb, trek and zipline almost 400 feet above sea level, already occupies second-place ranking on TripAdvisor of the emirate’s attractions – the first going to Jebel Jais as an attraction in itself.