Trip highlights

 

  Panoramic views of a sea of sand dunes

  Interesting rock formation and geology including ancient fossils

  An iconic location in the UAE with Mleiha archaeological grounds to visit too

  Conveniently located close to Dubai

Just 1hr drive from Dubai is the beautiful Jebel Mleiha, where stunning sand dunes meet the fascinating geological wonders of Fossil Rock and Saddle Rock.

From the Sharjah Kalba Highway, we walk along the sand taking in the size of the mountain until we find our point to ascend.

We walk up some slippery scree to the first beautiful view point on a ridge line, then up some more scree to the top of a flat plateau littered with metallic rock - for those that are interested to learn more about Jebel Mleiha's geological composition.

We will walk along the top of the plateau until we reach the Southern end of Jebel Mleiha; stopping at another incredible panoramic view point over Saddle and Fossil Rock and the expansive desert, before we turn back the way we came.

There are steep cliffs, sudden high drafts of wind and unstable quartz rock edges which can easily break apart. It is strongly advised not to stand near the edge of the cliffs at any time.

Trekking poles and appropriate hiking footwear with ankle support and strong soles are highly recommended. Please make sure to follow 'what to bring' section for this hike. Should you have any concerns or questions, please get in touch.

Hikers with not appropriate footwear (trainers) will be turned away.

Activity level

Hike Difficulty - Grade 3 Intermediate

 Meeting time:
Jebel Jaise road at 6.45am for a prompt 7:00am start (no 4x4 required)

Back to start point:
~13:30pm

 Driving time from Dubai:
~1hr

 

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Elevation gain

280m

Distance

7.5km

Activity time

4 hours

Quality of path

Moderate

Getting out of city life, enjoying the beautiful weather, staying physically active and meeting great people, I can't recommend joining Adventure Quest enough, there's really no better way to experience nature in the Middle East.
Keith
Wadi Ghalila - Leopard Canyon

What is included

  Our commitment to global standards of keeping you safe during this activity

  Our dedication to preserving the environment by adhering to Leave No Trace principles

  An experienced guide with international mountain leader training

  Experienced outdoor first aid responders & first aid kits

  Extensive risk assessments for the activity in line with best practice principles

  Insurance coverage for your involvement in this outdoor activity

  Satellite phone & walkie talkies

  Outdoor education specific to your activity location

  A community sharing the inclusive love for the outdoors and wellbeing

  A chance to live wild, learn whole and explore freely

What to bring

Lunch, snacks
3L of water, rehydration tablets
Sun protection
Suitable wicking hiking clothes
Decent hiking shoes
An inclusive spirit, positive attitude and lots of smiles

About the location

Your Guide

Picture of Nabil Habbouche

Nabil Habbouche

Founder

His passion is spending time outdoors away from the rat race by sharing his passion for anything outdoors with others, including his two boys. ​ He has a love for Adventure travel, a yearning to learn about other cultures, in both knowledge and taste. ​

Swimming
Nature Lover
Cartophille

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