When the summer heat fades, Ras Al Khaimah becomes one of the best places in the UAE to get back in the saddle. The cooler months open up roads, mountains and coastal paths that cyclists usually avoid during peak heat. But with so many options, the question is always the same: where’s the best place to ride?
The good news is that Ras Al Khaimah has a route for every type of cyclist. Whether you’re chasing the challenge of Jebel Jais, looking for flat coastal loops, or just want a family-friendly ride along the water, the Emirate has it covered.
Here are six of the cycling routes across Ras Al Khaimah that make the most of the season.
Jebel Jais
Cyclists often crave a challenging ride but struggle to find climbs that are both safe and accessible. Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, offers one of the most iconic rides in the country. The climb stretches roughly 35 km from the base to the viewing deck, with steady gradients around 4–7%. Smooth tarmac, wide shoulders and relatively low traffic in the mornings make it ideal for endurance training. Along the way, riders take in breathtaking views of the Hajar Mountains.
It’s a true bucket-list climb for UAE cyclists: test your stamina, reward your effort and enjoy panoramic views at the top.
Corniche Al Qawasim Path
Urban cycling often means dodging traffic and uneven roads, which can make it less enjoyable for casual riders. The Corniche provides a wide, flat waterfront route that’s perfect for casual cycling. Stretching a few kilometers along the water, it’s ideal for families with kids or anyone looking for a relaxing ride without the pressure of speed or distance. Cafés along the route make it a social spot to end the ride with coffee or snacks.
It’s a laid-back ride that combines exercise with family time and waterfront views.
Showka-Hatta loop
Short city rides can be fun, but they rarely offer the distance or challenge that seasoned cyclists look for. For riders who want to push their stamina, the Showka–Hatta Loop delivers a true adventure. Starting at Showka Bicycles, the route takes you along the New Hatta Road, climbs over Generator Hill, continues through Hweylat and loops back to Showka. With smooth, mostly paved roads, it’s designed for long, steady riding rather than technical handling.
Spanning around 90 km, this loop is a serious endurance test. Cyclists are rewarded with wide-open roads, striking mountain scenery and the satisfaction of completing one of the region’s most rewarding long-distance routes.
Al Wadi Desert Route
Many cyclists want variety in scenery, instead of the same views mile after mile.. Riders often seek something different to break the routine.
The roads leading toward the Al Wadi Desert provide quiet stretches lined with dunes, open landscapes and the chance to spot wildlife. Cyclists say the traffic is minimal, especially early in the morning and the route connects well to longer rides across the Emirate.
You’ll get a peaceful ride where the desert silence and open skies make every kilometer feel like an escape from the city.
Al Marjan Island
Not every cyclist wants steep climbs or long-distance endurance rides. Families and casual riders often just want a safe, flat route where they can cycle without worrying about traffic or challenging gradients. The Al Marjan Island loop is perfect for that. The 6 km circuit around the man-made islands is fully paved, with wide lanes and open views of the Arabian Gulf on both sides. It’s smooth, scenic and easy to extend into a longer session by doing multiple loops. Thanks to low traffic and pedestrian-friendly planning, it’s also safe for families and beginners.
Cyclists of all levels can enjoy the sea breeze, peaceful sunrise or sunset rides and the freedom to set their own pace.
Wadi Bih Cycling Trail
For advanced cyclists, flat coastal loops aren’t enough. They want rugged, adventurous routes that test endurance and offer landscapes you won’t find in the city. Often called the “Grand Canyon of the UAE,” the Wadi Bih trail delivers exactly that. The ride winds through rocky terrain and mountain passes, starting in Ras Al Khaimah and heading towards the Oman border. Depending on the chosen path, it can cover distances of up to 100 km, combining paved stretches with gravel sections, for a hybrid challenge suited to both road and gravel bikes.
Cyclists are rewarded with raw mountain beauty, dramatic cliffs and complete silence away from urban life. It’s a true test of endurance and grit, but finishing the Wadi Bih ride delivers unmatched satisfaction.
Cycling in Ras Al Khaimah doesn’t have to mean dodging cars or repeating the same loop every weekend. From mountain climbs and desert stretches to coastal rides and family-friendly paths, the Emirate offers routes for every type of cyclist. You’ll get safer rides, better training and unforgettable scenery with every turn of the pedal.
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