Ras Al Khaimah hosts the Mountain Hiking Challenge "Highlander 2026" Next February

Ras Al Khaimah, 18 December / WAM / The Highlander Challenge, the leading adventurous hiking event in the Middle East, returns to Ras Al Khaimah for its fifth edition, where it will be held from 6 to 8 February 2026 on Jebel Jais, the highest peak in the UAE. The event gives adventure enthusiasts the opportunity to test their abilities in a unique outdoor experience that combines physical challenge, exploration of the picturesque nature and the ancient local heritage of the emirate.

Highlander Adventure, the largest international hiking association in the world, is organizing the 2026 edition of the challenge with the support of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, where participants can test their abilities on the longest hiking trails above the highest mountain peak in the country within a network of trails extending over a distance of 94 kilometers on the Hajar Mountains, which is one of the largest dedicated mountain hiking networks in the UAE and offers a unique experience that combines challenge, exploration of nature and local culture.

This challenge comes in light of the increasing demand for adventure experiences around the world, as hosting the event, which includes a hiking challenge and camping activities, contributes to strengthening Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a leading destination for outdoor activities, mountain hiking and camping in 2/4 of the region.

The event also enhances participants’ experiences by combining outdoor adventures, exploring local culture, encouraging sustainable practices, and strengthening community ties.

Participants embark on an integrated journey that includes paths between the wonderful mountainous terrain of Ras Al Khaimah and extends through inhabited mountainous areas that reflect the history and traditions of the region and the daily life of the communities that have lived in these rugged environments for centuries.

These stations provide an opportunity to learn about the cultural heritage of mountain communities and their ability to adapt to life in mountainous nature, as well as to interact with mountain communities and explore their nutritional habits.

The camping experience also includes sessions dedicated to studying wildlife under the supervision of Bashar Bouka, who specializes in wildlife photography to highlight the biodiversity of the Hajar Mountains.

Philippa Harrison, CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said that hosting the “Highlander” Challenge for the fifth year in a row reflects our commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and encouraging travel experiences based on direct interaction with nature. This event is also consistent with our vision, which aims to enhance local community participation and consolidate Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a major destination for adventure and outdoor activities enthusiasts.

For his part, Fadi Hashisho, Managing Director of Highlander Emirates and founder of Adventure Outdoor Company, said that last year’s edition, in which more than 250 people participated, contributed to strengthening Ras Al Khaimah’s presence as a destination for hiking, camping and adventure activities at the international level with the participation of lovers of hiking experiences from 35 countries around the world. We will continue to focus on the heritage and authentic culture of Ras Al Khaimah through the events we organize, in addition to developing camping programs by launching more. Among the entertainment and health initiatives.

Following the success of the previous editions, the 2026 edition of the “Highlander Ras Al Khaimah” Challenge provides distinctive hiking experiences across three main trails: · The “HIGHLANDER Pegasus” Challenge, which extends over 3 days from February 6 to 8, 2026, for a distance of 37 kilometers. The challenge is organized to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the “Highlander Ras Al Khaimah” events, and is named after the constellation that forms the winged horse. In Greek mythology, it can be seen above the skies of the northern hemisphere. Participants can choose one of the two most famous and difficult trails on Jebel Jais, which are the Wadi Al Taibah (Stairway to Heaven) trail and the Wadi Ghalila trail.

The “Highlander Orion” challenge, which has a walking distance of 25 kilometers, will be held over two days from February 7 to 8. This challenge derives its name from the prominent constellation that can be seen during the winter. The challenge requires hiking long distances over several days with the use of a backpack that includes all the basic supplies, including camping, walking, and cooking equipment, throughout the challenge period. Participants camp under the night sky of Ras Al Khaimah and enjoy views of the emirate’s stunning mountainous terrain.

The 13-kilometre Highlander Lyra Challenge will be held on February 8, 2026. The challenge route is characterized by its smooth design that can be walked easily while maintaining difficulties that motivate new participants and allow them to interact with climbers and adventurers from different challenge categories in the “Highlander” community until reaching the end point and the celebrations organized after the challenge. The challenge was named after the lyre in Greek mythology, which forms one of the smallest and brightest constellations, as it combines difficulty and excitement.

Participants must carry basic equipment for the day hike without the need for camping or cooking equipment, making it an ideal opportunity for those wishing to boost their confidence and develop their skills and endurance before participating in the longer and more difficult “Highlander” challenges.

Registration for the “Highlander 2026” challenge can be done via the website. Participants who complete the entire route will receive a medal, a certificate of participation in the “Highlander Adventure” challenge, an identification card, a jacket with a number and a map, and will attend a special ceremony at the end point.

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