Jais Viewing Deck Park sits on a ridge on the slopes of Jebel Jais at about 1,250 metres above sea level, and it is one of the best places in the emirate to watch the light change over the mountains. The park is built around seven viewing decks, each reaching out over a drop with a different outlook, and binoculars at the decks let you pick out wadis, villages and the coast on a clear day. The air is noticeably cooler up here, which makes it a favourite with residents escaping the lowland heat in the warmer months. Visitors come for the views, for photographs, for a quiet walk along the paths and for the sunset, when the rock glows and the lights come on in the valleys below. There are cafes and places to sit, and families can let children run around in the open spaces. The park opens for long hours, with later closing at weekends, so you can plan a visit around golden hour. It is a short drive from the zipline park, so many visitors combine the two, flying in the morning and relaxing at the park in the afternoon. Entry arrangements can change, so check whether a charge applies on the day.
How it works
The park is on the mountain road, a drive of around forty minutes from Ras Al Khaimah city and an hour from Al Marjan Island. You park, then walk to the decks, which are spread along the ridge. Allow one to two hours for a leisurely visit. Opening hours are long, with the park open until later in the evening at weekends. A tour or a mountain safari will often include a stop here, so you do not need to drive.
What to expect
Temperatures drop as you climb, so bring a jacket in winter and evenings. The wind can be strong on the decks, and rails and barriers should be respected. Mobile coverage is usually fine. Food and drink are available but limited, so carry water. There may be queues for the best photograph spots at sunset on weekends. Children should be supervised near the edges.
Making the most of it
Arrive about an hour before sunset, claim a deck and watch the colours change. If you prefer quiet, go on a weekday morning. Bring a camera with a zoom lens for distant views, and binoculars of your own if you want a closer look at the landscape. Pair the visit with a mountain safari or a short walk on one of the trails, and keep time for the drive down in the dark, which should be taken carefully.
Good to know
The park suits all ages, with paths that are broadly gentle, but parts of the ridge are exposed and rails should be respected. Entry arrangements and opening times can change, so check whether a charge applies before you drive up. If you are visiting in the hot months, the mountain is one of the few places in the emirate where you can comfortably walk in the afternoon.
Weekends are busy at sunset, so arrive early for parking. A thermos of coffee or tea is a nice addition if you plan to stay after dark, and stargazing can be excellent on clear nights.
What to expect
The experience
A mountain park on a ridge of Jebel Jais with seven viewing decks, binoculars, paths and cafes.
Best time
Late afternoon for sunset, October to April, or any time to escape the heat.
How long
One to two hours.
Tips
Bring a jacket, water and a camera, and take care on the mountain road after dark.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Sunset views and cool air.
- Families
- Open space for children, but supervise near edges.
- Couples
- Watch the sun go down together.
- Pair with
- Jais Flight or a mountain safari.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
How high is the park?+
About 1,250 metres above sea level.
How many viewing decks are there?+
Seven, each with a different view.
Is it cooler than the coast?+
Yes, noticeably, often around ten degrees cooler.
When is it open?+
Long hours, with later closing at weekends. Check before you go.
Do I need a tour?+
No, but a safari makes the drive easier.