Jebel Jais Closes After Heavy Rains: Where UAE Campers Are Going To Enjoy Chilly Nights

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

For some residents, winter camping plans are built around one short period every year, and that is when temperatures in the UAE's highest mountains drop sharply as nights turn icy cold.

This year, that much-awaited window has arrived just as Jebel Jais has been closed temporarily following heavy rain.

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Jebel Jais is one of the most popular winter destinations in the country. Every December and January, residents and tourists travel up the mountain to camp overnight, enjoy bonfires, and wake up to misty mornings. Many plan these trips weeks in advance, waiting for the coldest nights of the season.

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But rain between December 17 and 19 damaged parts of the mountain road and walking paths. After the downpour, some cars were damaged or got stuck on slippery stretches as people tried to drive up.

Authorities later announced a temporary closure so safety teams could inspect the area and carry out repairs. But it is still not confirmed when the mountain will be reopened for the public.

The timing of the shutdown is important. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), temperatures in the higher parts of Ras Al Khaimah drop into single digits during winter, with January usually the coldest month. In previous winters, the lowest temperatures recorded at Jebel Jais have fallen to around 1oC and 3oC.

The next 10 days are expected to stay very cold in Jebel Jais, with daytime temperatures mostly between 9oC and 13oC and nighttime lows hovering around 3oC to 4oC, keeping conditions close to freezing.

According to the forecast, the days will be clear or fair, but rain is expected on December 28 and 29, with showers forecast on Monday. Winds will stay light, adding to the chilly feel, especially at night, making it the best window of the season.

This cold weather is exactly why campers wait all year to visit.“Once this window passes, the cold disappears very quickly,” said Meera Mazroui, a regular camper.“And it's quite cold and chilly during the first 20 days of January as well. If you miss this month, you have to wait another year.”

With no confirmation yet on when Jebel Jais will reopen, some residents told Khaleej Times that they are choosing not to cancel their plans. "Instead of cancelling our plans, we are planning to head to Jebel Yabir or Jebel Yanas or some hills in Fujairah, where winter nights are still cold and ideal for camping,” said Mohammed Ali Jundi, an adventurer and a PR and marketing professional.

“These places don't have zip lines or restaurants, but people are going for the temperature,” said Ali.“At night, it still gets very cold, and that's what winter camping is about.”

Authorities have advised visitors not to camp in wadis during this period of unsettled weather. They also warned that standing water, loose rocks, and slippery paths may still be present in some areas. While hiking zones have not been officially closed, officials have cautioned residents.

They further added Jebel Jais will reopen in phases once inspections and maintenance work are completed. Updates will be shared through official channels.

Until then, campers chasing the UAE's coldest nights of the year are finding alternatives. They are determined not to miss the short winter season when the mountains come closest to freezing.

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