Jebel Hafeet – A Guide to the UAE’s Tallest Mountain

Jebel Hafeet is a majestic mountain located in the city of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi. It is the highest peak in the United Arab Emirates, rising to an impressive height of 1,249 metres above sea level.

The mountain is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors worldwide who marvel at its natural beauty and explore its many historical and archaeological sites.

Geographically, Jebel Hafeet is part of the Hajar Mountains range, which runs along the eastern border of the UAE and Oman. The mountain comprises shallow marine sedimentary rocks, including limestone, marl, and evaporites. Its unique geological features and rich history have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors to Jebel Hafeet can enjoy various activities, from hiking and mountain biking to the many ancient tombs and archaeological sites scattered throughout the area. With its stunning views, rich history, and unique natural environment, Jebel Hafeet is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the UAE.

Jebel Hafeet – Key Takeaways

• Jebel Hafeet is the highest peak in the UAE and is part of the Hajar Mountains range.
• The mountain comprises shallow marine sedimentary rocks, including limestone, marl, and evaporites.
• Visitors can enjoy various activities, from hiking and mountain biking to exploring ancient tombs and archaeological sites.

Jebel Hafeet Geographical Overview

Jebel Hafeet is a mountain located in the southeastern region of the United Arab Emirates, near the city of Al Ain. It is part of the Hajar Mountains, which stretch from Oman to the UAE. The mountain is a popular tourist destination, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Jebel Hafeet rises 1,249 meters above sea level and is the highest peak in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. The mountain comprises shallow marine sedimentary rocks, including limestone, marl, and evaporites. The mountain’s geology is unique and considered one of the most significant natural landmarks in the region.

The mountain road leading to the summit of Jebel Hafeet is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. The road is 11.7 km long and has 60 turns, making it a challenging drive. The road offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is a popular spot for photography.

At the base of Jebel Hafeet lies the Green Mubazzarah, a park known for its hot springs and lush greenery. The park is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation. Visitors can also take a cable car to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of the region.

Jebel Hafeet is also home to the Jebel Hafit Desert Park, which offers visitors a chance to explore the natural and archaeological wonders of the region. The park is home to the Jebel Hafeet Beehive Tombs, a cemetery with over 500 tombs that date back over 5,000 years. The park also offers visitors a chance to learn about the region’s ancient history, including its flora and fauna.

In conclusion, Jebel Hafeet is a unique and significant natural landmark in the UAE. Its stunning landscapes, challenging mountain roads, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

Historical Significance

Jebel Hafeet has a rich history that spans several millennia. The mountain has been the site of numerous archaeological finds, and its cultural heritage is essential to the United Arab Emirates.

Archaeological Finds

Archaeological remains on Jebel Hafeet provide evidence of human settlement in the region dating back to the Neolithic period. The mountain is home to several ancient tombs, including the distinctive beehive tombs that define the Hafit period. These tombs are composed of natural and edged stones stacked to create a dome shape. The tombs are estimated to be around 5,000 years old and provide valuable insights into the burial practices of the early Bronze Age inhabitants of the region.

Cultural Heritage

Jebel Hafeet’s cultural heritage is closely linked to the history of the city of Al Ain, which lies at the foot of the mountain. The city is an oasis in the desert and has been inhabited for thousands of years. The Mezyad Fort near the mountain is a testament to the region’s rich history and popular tourist destination. The fort was built in the 17th century to protect the area’s valuable water resources.

Trade and Settlement

Jebel Hafeet’s location made it an important regional trade and settlement centre. The mountain lies on the border between the United Arab Emirates and Oman and was an important trading route between Mesopotamia and the Arabian Peninsula. The discovery of copper in the region led to the development of settlements around the mountain, and the falaj irrigation system was used to support agriculture in the area.

Fossil Discoveries

Jebel Hafeet’s natural surroundings are also of great significance. The mountain is home to diverse flora and fauna and has been the site of several important fossil discoveries. The fossils found on the mountain provide valuable insights into the region’s biodiversity and the area’s geological history.

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, Jebel Hafeet was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. The site is an essential reminder of the region’s rich history and the contributions of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates, to the preservation of the country’s cultural heritage.

Touristic Attractions

Outdoor Activities

Jebel Hafeet offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding on the rugged terrain of the Hajar Mountains.

The Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road is a popular destination for trips and scenic drives. The road offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a must-visit spot for nature lovers. The sunrise and sunset views from the top of the mountain are simply stunning and make for a perfect photo opportunity.

Accommodation and Facilities

There are several accommodation options available for visitors to Jebel Hafeet. The Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet and Mercure Hotel are popular tourist options. Both hotels offer comfortable rooms and excellent facilities. Visitors can also go camping at the Mezyad Desert Park, at Jebel Hafeet’s base. The park offers basic facilities and is perfect for those who want to experience the desert landscape first-hand.

Visitor Reviews

Jebel Hafeet is a popular tourist destination and has received positive reviews from visitors on TripAdvisor and Edmunds.com. Visitors have praised the scenic beauty of the mountain and the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road. The Camel Market, located near the mountain’s base, is also a popular attraction among visitors. Visitors have also enjoyed spotting the rock hyrax, a small mammal native to the region.

Overall, feet is a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The mountain offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

Climate and Natural Environment

Jebel Hafeet has a hot desert climate (BWh) according to the Köppen climate classification. It is characterised by hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in Jebel Hafeet is 27.9°C | 82.3°F. The period of November is widely regarded as summer in Jebel Hafeet. The average annual precipitation is 77 mm (3.0 in), which falls mainly during winter. Due to its proximity to the equator, it is pretty challenging to delineate summers in Jebel Hafeet precisely.

Despite the arid climate, there are several natural attractions in the area. The mountain is made of limestone and is home to several caves, including the famous Jebel Hafeet Cave. There is also a natural lake, Green Mubazzarah, at the foot of the mountain. The lake is fed by hot springs and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.

Jebel Hafeet is also rich in biodiversity. The mountain is home to various plant and animal species, including several endemic species. The Jebel Hafeet National Park protects the area, which aims to preserve and restore the place’s fauna, flora, natural environment, and geology. The park also encourages ecotourism, allowing visitors to experience the natural surroundings while learning about the area’s unique ecosystem.