Jebel Hafeet

Jebel Hafeet is the UAE's second-highest mountain, offering families an unforgettable scenic drive up a winding 7.3-mile road with breathtaking desert and city views. Kids will be thrilled by the mountain adventure, while parents appreciate the well-maintained roads, rest stops, and visitor facilities at the summit. The cooler mountain temperatures provide a refreshing escape from Al Ain's heat, making it an exciting outdoor experience for the whole family.

• ✓Spectacular winding mountain road with 60+ hairpin turns that feels like an adventure ride
• ✓Panoramic 360-degree views of Al Ain city, desert landscapes, and Oman border from the summit
• ✓Multiple scenic viewpoints and photo stops along the route perfect for family pictures
• ✓Visitor center with educational displays about the mountain's geology and wildlife
• ✓Cooler mountain climate offering relief from desert heat, especially refreshing for kids

1. 1.Visit early morning (around sunrise) to avoid midday heat and enjoy clearer views before haze develops. The temperature at the summit is typically 10 degrees Celsius cooler than at the base.
2. 2.Bring motion sickness remedies for sensitive children as the road has over 60 hairpin turns. Drive slowly and take breaks at the designated viewpoints.
3. 3.Pack snacks, water, and layers of clothing. While there's a hotel and cafe at the summit, having supplies on hand is helpful, especially if kids get hungry during the drive.
4. 4.Stop at the Green Mubazzarah park at the mountain's base before or after your drive. Kids can enjoy hot springs pools and playground areas.
5. 5.Download maps offline as mobile signal can be weak on parts of the mountain. Keep your fuel tank at least half full before starting the ascent.

October through March offers the most comfortable weather for families, with pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration. Visit early morning (6-9am) or late afternoon (4-6pm) to avoid peak heat and catch stunning sunrise or sunset views. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends when local families visit.

Access to the mountain road is free, though parking at the summit is limited. The Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet hotel at the top has restrooms and a restaurant, though prices are higher. Bring your own food and drinks for a more budget-friendly visit.

Best visited during cooler months (October to March) when temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities. Summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot at the base, though the summit remains relatively cooler. The mountain is accessible year-round, but occasional fog in winter months can reduce visibility.

Visit Al Ain Oasis for traditional Emirati dining experiences, or head to Bawadi Mall (about 20 minutes from the mountain base) for international chains like McDonald's, Pizza Hut, and family-friendly restaurants with kids' menus and air conditioning.