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Stairway to Heaven Hike

Dubbed the UAE's toughest and deadliest trekking route.

On this page: What it is · Guy's experience · Know before you go. Who it's for: thrill-seekers, first-timers and visitors who want more than a mall.

Black-and-white photo of Paris in a fur aviator hat and goggles with a red-and-white shemagh scarf

Quick facts

Thrill–
Physical effort–
Family-friendly–
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Guy's verdict–
Paris with his mouth taped shutGuy hasn't said yet
  • Location: Ras Al Khaimah
  • Distance: About 23 km loop, 1,300 m climb (Paris's description)
  • Duration: Full day; allow 8 hours
  • Season: Cooler months; start by 7.30am

Wikiloc Map: Wadi Ghalilah Enquire / book More adventure Related: ras al khaimah

What it is

Stairway to Heaven is a trail in the Hajar Mountains of Ras Al Khaimah, starting from Wadi Ghalilah and climbing about 1,300 m on a mountain beside Jebel Jais. Paris's description: a 23 km loop, one side of which is very dangerous and has been fatal for some trekkers. The safer choice is to go up and come back down the same, gentler side.

Guy's experience

Paris did the back half: The down bit is a good workout, but it's a lot safer. There's a trail, it's much more visitor friendly. It got harder as it climbed: This is never ending ... the closer we get, the further it looks away, and it's just getting steeper and steeper. At the top they met a man with a donkey (who knew that people lived up here?). His verdict: It took us about four hours to get to the top ... probably the right difficulty level for most people, because people who are of a medium fitness, or maybe not even that fit, could do it. It would just take them a little bit longer.

Know before you go

  • Plan a full day: Paris rates it difficult and at least 8 hours, and suggests starting by 7.30am so you are not trekking in the dark.
  • Carry at least 3 litres of water, sun cream, energy drinks, snacks and lunch: don't expect to find lunch up here, you've got to bring your own.
  • Wear proper hiking boots; the ground is loose and ankles twist easily.
  • You can drive to the parking point without a 4x4, but not further up in a low car.
  • Climb while the mountain still shades the trail; the sun beats down later.

Where

Wadi Ghalilah, Ras Al Khaimah, near the Oman border. Pair it with our Ras Al Khaimah day trip, more hiking in Ras Al Khaimah, or the top 5 hikes in the UAE.

Who it suits

Fit, prepared hikers in the cooler months. Never take the dangerous side, and go with a guide if you are not confident on steep, loose ground.

FAQ

How long is the Stairway to Heaven hike?

Paris describes a 23 km loop; going up and down the safer side took him about four hours up, plus lunch and the descent: a full day.

Is Stairway to Heaven dangerous?

One side has had fatal accidents. Paris recommends ascending and descending the safer side.

Sources

Facts checked October 2026. Opening times, age limits and seasons change, so confirm with the operator before you go.

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