This is a story of a mountain trip to Jebel Hafeet Al Ain in Abu Dhabi. Nestled on the border of the UAE and Oman lies Jebel Hafeet, the second-highest mountain range in the UAE. It’s one of the region’s most popular destinations for mountain road trips, picnics, and nature experiences.
📍 About Jebel Hafeet
Jebel Hafeet (also spelled Jabal Hafit) is considered an extension of Oman’s Al Hajar mountains. It falls within the Sheikh Zayed Protected Areas Network as part of the Jebel Hafeet National Park. It’s home to rare Arabian Tahrs and Dwarf Palms.
🚗 How to Reach Jebel Hafeet Al Ain
By Public Transport
- From Dubai: Board Bus E201 from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (AED 30).
- From Abu Dhabi: Board Bus X90 from Al Nahyan Bus Station (Regular: AED 30, Premium: AED 40).
Once you arrive at Al Ain Central Bus Station, you can reach the mountain summit by car (your own, a rented one, or a taxi). Private buses are also available.
By Car
- From Downtown Abu Dhabi: 30–40 minutes
- From Dubai: 1.5 hours by car
The final stretch is a well-maintained, three-lane mountain road with thrilling hairpin bends and panoramic views.
🏞️ What to do
1. Mountain Road Trip Adventure
Driving up the mountain is an experience in itself, with hairpin turns and steadily unfolding views of Al Ain city far below. The higher you climb, the urban grid turns into a miniature model.
2. Mountain Picnic
Many travelers set up picnic spots at the summit. It’s a great place to unwind with friends or family in the crisp mountain air.
3. Summit Views
At the top, you’ll find a viewing deck offering spectacular 360° views.
At night, the city lights transform into a constellation-like display, and the mountain road glows like a golden ribbon winding through the darkness.
4. Sunrise & Sunset Spectacles
Both sunrise and sunset here are mesmerizing. The sky comes alive in shades of orange and yellow as the sun touches the rugged peaks.
🏨 Where to Stay
We stayed at Oryx Grand Hotel, a 4-star property located right on the mountain, just 4 minutes from the summit. Affordable and comfortable, it’s a perfect base for your mountaintop adventures.
🌿 Other Attractions
While you’re in the area, consider visiting:
- Green Mubazzarah Lake & Mini Train
- Jebel Hafeet Hot Springs Garden
- Beehive Tombs
- Al Jahili Fort
- Al Ain Oasis
- Hili Archaeological Park
- Wadi Adventure
- Al Ain Zoo
- Al Qattara Arts Centre
- Al Ain Camel Market
📖 Our Jebel Hafeet Trip
We visited Jebel Hafeet Al Ain in December. On a weekend afternoon with bright clear skies. The changing altitude made my ears pop a little, but the stunning views made up for it. Enthusiastic bikers zipped past on their stylish motorcycles. The views and hairpin curves kept our hearts racing. The view of Al Ain city slowly shrinking into the horizon was a sight to remember.
After a refreshing nap at the hotel, we ventured to the summit. The way the sunlight hit the mountain peaks, the calm air, and the endless panoramic view were unforgettable — a mix of vast mountain ranges, the twisty road through the valley, and Al Ain city spread out below.
After some sightseeing at the base attraction-Jebel Hafeet Hot Springs Garden and a fun train ride at Green Mubazzarah Mini Train, we headed back to the summit at night.
That view under the moonlight was magical. The streetlights along the mountain road looked like a string of golden pearls winding down the mountain. Al Ain city twinkled in the distance like a cluster of tiny stars. It felt otherworldly, peaceful, and just… right.
We didn’t want to miss the sunrise either. But the hotel bed was so ridiculously comfy, we woke up to brunchtime sunshine instead. So yeah… we’re officially blaming the bed for our sunrise no-show!
We’re definitely coming back to catch all the things we missed this time. Can’t leave unfinished business with a place this awesome!
💡 Tips & Suggestions
- Best Time to Visit: Winter (pleasant temperatures, clear skies)
- Essentials:
- Warm clothes for chilly nights
- Picnic blankets and mats
- Food, water, snacks
- Sunglasses, sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A good camera
- Plan to:
- Catch the gorgeous sunset
- Enjoy a night picnic under the stars
- Witness a stunning sunrise
🏞️ Final Thoughts
Jebel Hafeet offers an irresistible blend of mountain adventure, breathtaking summit views, and peaceful time in nature. Whether you’re road-tripping with friends or seeking solitude under the stars, this destination is a perfect fit.
📍What are your thoughts on a mountain escape like this? Would you go for the sunset, the moonlight, or the sunrise? Drop your comments below!
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