The UAE has plenty of beginner-friendly hiking trails, spread across Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Sharjah. These trails are great for beginner hikers. Some trails are flat, some trails are paved park loops and some trail options have gentle mountain trails that have light elevation and are easy to navigate. Hiking trails in the UAE are best between November and March. The ideal temperatures for hiking are 20°C to 25°C.
This guide provides a list of 10 beginner-friendly trails across the UAE, including distance, time, difficulty levels, and instructions on how to get to the trailhead.
Transportation Options for UAE Hiking Trails
Self-driving is the best way to access most of the hiking locations. Regular cars can access Mushrif Park, Al Qudra Lakes, Jebel Jais, and Hatta hub areas because the roads are paved. A few places, especially Wadi Naqab, Wadi Abadila, and parts of Shawka, have unpaved/wadi-bed roads which require a 4X4 to reach safely.
Taking a taxi or using ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber, and RAK Sayr or Hala Careem in Ras Al Khaimah) works well for urban trails like Mushrif Park. However, these services are not a practical option for mountain trails, as drivers and return pickup services are generally unavailable there.
Local guided hikes in Hatta, Jebel Jais, and Wadi Naqab are worth considering options for first-time hikers. Guides are familiar with the trail conditions, will provide transport from Dubai, and can adjust the hike to your level of fitness.
Average driving time from Dubai is roughly 30 minutes to Mushrif Park, up to 2–2.5 hours to Jebel Jais or Al Rafisa Dam in the far north/east.
Quick tip: Before beginning your hike, remember to download offline maps. Cell phone signals can drop completely in some mountain wadis.
Easy Hiking Destinations in the UAE
| Trail | Distance | Average Time | Difficulty | Starting Point (Coordinates) |
| Jebel Jais Lower Trails | 0.7–6 km | 30 min–3 hrs | Easy | 25.934° N, 56.130° E |
| Mushrif Park Trail | 5–8 km | 1.5–2 hrs | Easy | 25.225° N, 55.451° E |
| Wadi Abadila | 4–6 km | 2–3 hrs | Easy | 25.367° N, 56.245° E |
| Hatta Hiking Trails | 2–5 km | 1–6 hrs | Easy | 24.808° N, 56.128° E |
| Al Rabi Tower | 5 km | 2–3 hrs | Easy–Moderate | 25.346° N, 56.362° E |
| Seven Summits | 6–8 km | 3–4 hrs | Moderate | 25.281° N, 56.231° E |
| Al Rafisa Dam | 2–3 km | 1 hr | Easy | 25.353° N, 56.327° E |
| Shawka Dam Mountain Trail | 8–10 km | 3–4 hrs | Easy–Moderate | 25.132° N, 56.080° E |
| Wadi Naqab | 8–14 km | 4–6 hrs | Moderate | 25.847° N, 56.029° E |
| Banks of Al Qudra Lakes | 3–7 km | 1–2 hrs | Easy | 24.792° N, 55.353° E |
1. Jebel Jais Lower Trails (Ras Al Khaimah)
If you’re looking for easy mountain hikes, the lower trails at Jebel Jais are one of the great options. There are six official hiking trails available. The lower section consists of the Farfar Trail which is 0.7 km long and suitable for family- friendly hiking.
The Samar Trail, which is a 6 km loop trail that passes through the mountains that is old and historic. The terrain is easy to walk, and the grading is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.There are several clear markers along the route, and most hikers should be able to navigate.
You may enjoy the amazing views of the Hajar Mountains, goats, Arabian tahr, and the many native trees like Acacia and olive.
2. Mushrif Park Trail
Mushrif National Park is a newly opened hiking trail since 2023, near Al Khawaneej, located in eastern Dubai. The trail passes through lush ghaf trees and gentle hills, offering a peaceful and refreshing hiking experience. The pathways are packed with sand and dirt and complemented with wooden bridges and stairways, making it a beginner-friendly trail. A number of shortcuts are available along the trail, which also allows hikers to get on and off the trail quickly.
3. Wadi Abadila, Fujairah
Wadi Abadila in Fujairah is a gentle hiking trail known for palm trees and quiet scenery. Hiking in a wadi has lots of interesting rock formations and seasonal rock pools. This route does not have official trail markers , so it is advised to download a free GPS route. The ample amount of rocks, sand, and possibly shallow water makes this trail hike easy to walk on. This hike doesn’t have as much elevation as other trails, making it a perfect option for beginner hikers.
4. Hatta Hiking Trails (Dubai)
Hatta Hiking Trails are beginner-friendly, well-organized, and scenic hiking trails in the UAE. Wadi Hub at Hatta is about 90 minutes away from Dubai and has a network of trails that are color-coded and graded. The trails extend for over 32 km and have easy (green) trails and much more difficult (black) trails.
It offers some amazing views of the Hajar Mountains, Hatta Dam, and the rocky hills, along with the local farmland. Additionally, hiking in this area is very convenient, as Wadi Hub provides parking, restrooms, cafes, and other hiker facilities.
5. Al Rabi Tower (Khor Fakkan)
If you’re looking for a trail that combines a hike in the mountains with the views of the ocean, check out the Al Rabi Tower Trail. This trail is great for beginners who are more physically fit as the trail is a bit rocky. So it is recommended to take along a sturdy pair of hiking shoes and trainers. This trail is easy to navigate, but signboards are limited, so it is recommended to download your GPS tracks before going.
One of the highlights of this trail is the old watchtower, which has a great view during hiking. You can also enjoy the Gulf of Oman, Khor Fakkan, and the Hajar mountains. This is one of the best hikes while you are on the east side of the UAE.
6. Seven Summits, Fujairah
Seven Summits Trail in Fujairah takes hikers to the top of multiple peaks. This trail offers an excellent opportunity to work on building endurance. You will definitely need hiking shoes, as the terrain is very rocky and exposed. Because of this, early morning hiking is the best option. Each summit offers a unique view and some perfect photo opportunities. The trail makes an excellent option for experienced hikers who are looking to take on something more challenging hiking trails.
7. Al Rafisa Dam, Khor Fakkan
Al Rafisa Dam trail is a short hike around a small reservoir dam near Khor Fakkan. The trail is one of the gentlest hikes that can be completed within 1 hour. It is a flat, family-friendly loop trail, not a typical mountain trail. The majority of the dam trail is a paved surface that is mostly flat. Because of the minimal elevation gain, the hike is very accessible.
The mountain terrain surrounding the dam reservoir provides scenic views and peaceful natural surroundings. As a result, it makes a convenient short trail to include as part of a larger day hike in Khor Fakkan.
8. Shawka Dam Mountain Trail
Wadi Showka (Shawka) is located between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. This trail combines a dam and reservoir with a longer mountain trail. The trail near the dam is relatively smooth and beginner-friendly. However, if you continue onto the mountain trail, the elevation gain increases, making the hike more challenging and better suited to experienced hikers.
Markings are informal in places, so sticking to a GPS track is worthwhile. The scenery mixes reservoir views with classic Hajar Mountain is popular for both hiking and off-roading.
9. Wadi Naqab, Ras Al Khaimah
The Wadi Naqab hiking trail has beautiful views along its lengthy and rugged landscape. That is why it’s rated moderate rather than easy. Along the trail, you’ll come across large rocks, interesting rock formations, and sandy wadi paths. Some parts of the route may require light climbing over rocks, but they are generally easy to navigate.
The hike is designed mainly for the views. Additionally, the canyons and pools offer unique scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. Once you’ve built more confidence, the Wadi Naqab hike can be a great next trail to explore.
10. Banks of Al Qudra Lakes
Al Qudra Lakes is located in the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, about a 30–40 minute drive from downtown Dubai. Additionally, the man-made lakes are surrounded by well-maintained walking paths in excellent condition, making them ideal for casual walks.
The paved paths form part of the famous 86-kilometer Al Qudra Cycle Track. With mostly flat terrain and very little elevation gain, the area is ideal for relaxed walks, cycling, and wildlife spotting. The best time to walk the area and get the best views is in the early morning when the temperatures are the coolest.
Final Thoughts
The UAE is full of exciting and easy hiking trails, because you don’t need expensive, special equipment. Mushrif Park has quiet trails, and Jebel Jais has stunning mountain trails. Every trail in the UAE has something unique to offer everyone. For a more enjoyable hiking experience, be mindful of the weather, plan trips between November and March, and start hiking in the early morning with ample water and offline GPS maps.
Once you’ve completed a few beginner hiking trails, consider trying more challenging routes like Wadi Naqab and the Seven Summits. Overall, hiking is a refreshing way to explore the beautiful natural landscapes of the UAE.
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