Magnificent Jebel Hafeet stands amongst the expansive desert park and towers 4,000 feet over Abu Dhabi’s garden city Al Ain.
Close to the border with Oman, this stunning limestone mountain is the tallest in Abu Dhabi and the second-highest peak in the UAE, making it a must-visit attraction during any trip.
Soak up the scenery then hike or mountain bike your way around the desert park. Discover facts about Jebel Hafeet and uncover archaeological discoveries dating back thousands of years. You can even camp Bedouin-style for a magical night to remember under Al Ain’s glittering skies.
Whether you’re fascinated by history, adore adventure or simply love to watch an awe-inspiring sunrise or sunset, a visit to this ancient wonder will not be forgotten easily.
Adventure lovers, families looking for a day out with a difference, and history buffs searching for ancient discoveries framed by panoramic views of Al Ain.
Taking this bucket list drive to the peak of the mountain and experiencing the incredible views, which are truly spectacular at sunrise and sunset.
Driving to this peak is high on the itinerary of many visitors to the UAE and it isn’t difficult to see why.
A bucket list car journey, this ascent may not take long, but the views along the way are unrivalled. Come away inspired after admiring the oasis of Al Ain and the surrounding desert park.
Get your timings right to reach the summit of Jebel Hafeet at either sunrise or sunset for spectacular panoramic views.
After reaching the mountain’s peak, make your way back down and enjoy everything the family-friendly Jebel Hafeet Desert Park has to offer.
The park stretches around five-and-a-half miles (nine kilometres) and can be explored in various ways. Opt to hike or mountain bike, or even ride a camel.
Visitors will discover Neolithic remains dating back 8,000 years, plus the fascinating 5,000-year-old, beehive-shaped tombs. Book a guided hike so you don’t miss a thing.
No visit to Abu Dhabi is complete without a glimpse into traditional Bedouin life and what better way than to stay overnight after an action-packed tour of Jebel Hafeet?
Make the desert park your home for the evening and enjoy the glorious weather of Jebel Hafeet during a magical experience.
Stay in a Bedouin-style camp, glam it up in a fully-furnished, air-conditioned five-star bubble, or bring your own camping gear to sleep under the stars.
Jebel Hafeet mountain is perfectly positioned as the guardian of Al Ain, offering stunning views of the garden city’s oasis. To reach Jebel Hafeet, you’ll need a vehicle – you can either hire your own car, take a taxi, or book onto a local tour.
Join the E22 towards Al Ain for around 75 miles (120 kilometres) until you reach Khalifa Bin Zayed Street. Then follow the E95 to Jebel Hafeet St.
The journey will take around an hour and 45 minutes.
It takes around two hours to drive the 109 miles (177 kilometres) from Yas Island to Jebel Hafeet.
Leaving Yas Island, follow Sheikh Khalif Bin Zayed Street (E12) past the airport on to the E11. Join the E22 and continue into Al Ain, following signs for Jebel Hafeet.
First, pick up the Abu Dhabi to Al Shahama Road, then get on the E22 until you reach Khalifa Bin Zayed Street before taking the E95 to Jebel Hafeet Street.
This route will take around two hours and is just under 115 miles (182 kilometres).
There is parking along the route up the mountain and a large carpark at the peak, providing several picture-perfect opportunities to take photographs of the view.
The route to the top of Jebel Hafeet is popular with cyclists who relish a challenge – join a local group to tackle the ascent.
The cafe at the summit offers explorers well-deserved refreshments to enjoy with the stunning panoramic views.
Enjoy the great outdoors and stay overnight with one of the three camping options in the foothills of the mountain at the desert park. You can also enjoy four-star luxury and a pool with a view at the Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Al Ain Hotel.
The drive from the foot to the peak of Jebel Hafeet takes around 15-20 minutes without breaks. If you want to experience this iconic drive with stops to admire the view, it will take a little longer. A trip from the centre of Al Ain to the peak takes roughly 45 minutes, traffic depending.
Yes, people wishing to visit Jebel Hafeet can easily get a taxi from the city of Al Ain. Other options include hiring a car and making the drive yourself or booking a car with a driver to transport you to the summit of the mountain to enjoy the stunning views, alongside local insights.
Nature-lovers will feel right at home with a trip to the Mangrove National Park. Spot the native flamingos, fish and turtles as you explore the forests on foot or in a kayak.
Discover more
Learn more about the Garden City of Al Ain at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surround yourself with the oasis' natural beauty as you explore what life was like in the UAE thousands of years ago.
Set out on an adventure through the sand dunes on a one-of-a-kind desert safari. Ride camels, go sandboarding and enjoy a traditional Arabian buffet under the stars.
All imagery provided by © Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi
