HIGHLANDER Ras Al Khaimah Introduces a New Summit Challenge on 21–22 November 2026
The inaugural UAE edition of the HIGHLANDER Summit Series offers shorter yet steeper mountain hikes, with one- and two-day formats for adventure enthusiasts.
- HIGHLANDER 1DAY: A 7 km hike on Sunday, 22 November, featuring 400 metres of elevation gain and loss and a maximum altitude of 600 metres.
- HIGHLANDER 2DAY: An approximately 15 km adventure over 21–22 November, with around 845 metres of elevation gain, 812 metres of descent and a maximum altitude of approximately 1,190 metres. The experience includes an overnight camp at around 1,050 metres.
The 1DAY route begins in Wadi Khammed, taking hikers through a canyon framed by towering white rock walls, boulders and sculpted ledges. A steep zigzag ascent leads to a checkpoint, followed by a balcony trail offering panoramic mountain views before the descent to the finish. Participants should be prepared for demanding sections and occasional scrambling over low rock barriers.
The 2DAY experience begins with historic village trails and stone steps passing Derat Takem, a remote mountain settlement known for its terraced landscape. Hikers then proceed to Derat Halak, the event’s high camp at approximately 1,050 metres. Depending on arrival time, participants can take an optional hike to a viewpoint below Jebel Yabana at approximately 1,190 metres.
On the second day, the route descends through rocky ridges, a wadi gully and a narrow goat trail before joining the panoramic balcony trail. Although the marked route is generally non-technical, steep slopes, loose rocks and uneven surfaces require caution.
Participants choosing the 2DAY format must carry their own food, water and equipment throughout the hike and reach the campsite before sunset. The overnight stay offers an opportunity to rest amid the mountains before beginning the next day’s descent.
Safety, sustainability and responsible adventure
HIGHLANDER promotes a self-guided hiking experience along clearly marked trails, supported by marshals and first-aid assistance at checkpoints. Time limits apply at designated points, while established procedures help participants who need to leave the route safely.
Sustainability remains central to the event’s philosophy. Under its ‘Leave No Trace’ commitment, hikers are encouraged to protect the natural environment and leave the mountains undisturbed, carrying home only photographs and memories.
Five years after its introduction in Ras Al Khaimah, HIGHLANDER has welcomed thousands of participants and contributed to the emirate’s growing international profile as an adventure tourism destination. The Summit Series builds on this legacy by directing attention towards the region’s mountain summits, landscapes and local communities.
The initiative reinforces HIGHLANDER’s commitment to expanding adventure tourism while creating opportunities for travellers to discover Ras Al Khaimah through immersive outdoor experiences.
Registration and fees
Registration for HIGHLANDER Summit Series Ras Al Khaimah 2026 is open. Entry fees start at AED 250 (approximately US$68) for the 1DAY format and AED 550 (approximately US$150) for the 2DAY format. Team registrations are available for groups of two or three.
An Early Bird promotion was announced until 15 October 2026. As that date has passed, participants should check the official registration platform for current offers and fees.
For more information and to register, visit www.highlanderadventure.com/en-us/ras-al-khaimah.
