A Breath of Highland Air in Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park Ras Al Khaimah UAE

The dramatic climb to the Jais Viewing Deck Park takes you 1,250 metres above sea level and almost 30 km into the heart of the mountains. If you seek peace and some space to unwind, the park spans a ridge and features seven viewing decks with 12 powerful binoculars that command unparalleled panoramas. On one side, you have views across the zig-zagging road, swooping valleys and cloud-piercing peaks and on the other, date wadis, villages and the Arabian Gulf.https://visitrasalkhaimah.com/discover/attractions/jais-viewing-deck-park/

After our overnight camping at the upper part of Jebel Jais, we decided to drop by the famous Viewing Deck Park. A place we had passed the night before when it was full of visitors and glowing with lights. We told ourselves that it would be better to delve it in daylight. So the views could unfold fully and the mountain could show us its true beauty. We went at around 9 AM. The place felt peaceful with only a handful of visitors enjoying the cool highland breeze. We paid 7 dirhams each for the entrance fee. The security guard asked if we planned to hike the trail. We simply told him we wanted to roam around, take photos and enjoy the landscape. He gave us a friendly smile and opened the gate. As if welcoming us to a place meant to be experienced slowly and wholeheartedly.

The first thing that excited me was the thought of taking pictures. I told my husband, It’s picture time. We climbed the stone stairs that led upward and though the track was a bit steep. I felt more excited than tired as I walked and immersed in the surroundings. When we came to the top, a striking design welcomed us. A gnarled tree stood at the center of a round solid planter. Above it, a beige fabric canopy stretched wide, with a perfect circular opening that allowed sunlight to pour directly onto the tree. That small beam of light created a quiet, poetic moment. It was the ideal blend of modern architecture and natural elements, simple yet deeply captivating.

On one side perched a children’s playground. The playground felt like a light contrast to the rugged mountain landscape. It was unveiled that even in a place known for its impressive cliffs and high altitude views there is still room for simple bliss and laughter. It prompted me that this place welcomes every kind of visitor who simply wants to savour the fresh air.

It also has a small garden with a neat green lawn. A few trees and a wooden fence enfolding it like a little haven at the top of the mountains. It was a typical area but it brings a quiet beauty that calmed the toughness of the stony vibe. I felt a mix of peace and amuse that this green patch was reminding me that even in the highest terrains life still finds a way to thrive.

We saw modern block style benches facing the open scenery inviting visitors to pause and soak in the mountain views. A few steps more and the iconic red Jebel Jais map-pin sign appeared standing boldly against the rugged backdrop. My husband told me to strike a pose. I knew it was the ideal spot for a photo. I felt a dash of happiness and elation. I smiled for him.

We kept walking around taking photos of every angle that caught our eye, until we reached the main viewing deck equipped with binoculars. My husband rushed to one in excitement eager to take a closer look at the scenery. The moment I looked out, I was struck with amazement. We were incredibly high above the rugged terrain. The mountains unbend wide and endlessly. Composed of sharp rocky slopes and impressive cuts shaped by time.

We followed a path leading down a long, beautifully designed stone staircase. It curved elegantly around giant boulders and both of us were amazed by its architecture. Even though the sun was getting warmer, we enjoyed every step admiring the huge rocks scattered naturally across the terrain. The park was neat and we could feel the calmness in every corner.

As we walked farther, we discovered a modern café made from a shipping container. My husband was excited to get coffee but it was still closed for the morning. The outdoor seating area was beautiful with wooden and stone tables and another viewing deck nearby. We paused for a while letting the silence of the mountains relax our minds.

We made our way back down to the parking area. It turned out to have its own viewpoint. We could see the winding mountain road, cliffs and rugged canyons. We even spotted the highest ATM machine in the country, operating 24 hours and a charging station for electric vehicles. It made us smile at how stunningly modern the place was despite being so high above the city.

With hearts full and spirits lifted, we headed back to the car and began searching for a wadi where we could enjoy our lunch. As we left the Viewing Deck Park behind, we felt really grateful. Jebel Jais had once again given us a memorable experience that we will cherish for a lifetime.

Photos taken using Samsung S25 Ultra
Collage using Canva

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