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Marjan develops 80km Grand Loop and five-day Via Ferrata on Jebel Jais
The Ras Al Khaimah developer is building new mountain routes with completion scheduled through the 2026-27 season.
Marjan, an investment and hospitality company in Ras Al Khaimah, announced the development of an 80km Grand Loop hiking trail and a five-day Via Ferrata climbing route on Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest peak. The Grand Loop will link to existing Jebel Jais trails and accommodate hiking, climbing, camping, cycling and exploration. Trail and climbing improvements will continue through the 2026-27 season, with no completion date disclosed. The National News reported the announcement on 15 September 2026.
Via Ferrata climbing route spans 20km#
The Via Ferrata climbing route spans 20km across the cliffs of northern Ras Al Khaimah, divided into four sections of varying difficulty. Mountain shelters accessible only on foot will support the route, which was inspired by the Via Delle Bocchette in Italy's Brenta Dolomites. Travel and Tour World reported that Grand Loop development is scheduled to start from January.
Wadi Khammed to Hidden Oasis route under rehabilitation#
Work is under way on the Wadi Khammed to Hidden Oasis route, with improvements to existing sections and new connecting trails. Trail builders are improving trail widths, grades and rock crossings. Direction signs are being installed across the network. Mountain rescue support will be available to assist emergency authorities. Standards and a framework for climbing network management are being established.
Biodiversity survey records 45 plant species#
Ajaz Environment Consultants conducted a biodiversity assessment that recorded 45 plant species, 29 bird species and eight mammal species across the Jebel Jais area. The Arabian red fox, Afro-Asiatic wildcat, Brandt's hedgehog and Arabian spiny mouse were among the species documented. Trail planning, habitat protection and environmental monitoring will be guided by the findings. The assessment will serve as a baseline for future surveys. Donald Bremner, chief executive of Marjan Lifestyle, a subsidiary of Marjan, stated that development begins with trail construction, user navigation, climbing management and environmental protection.
Sources2 sources across 2 domains
- thenationalnews.comThe National NewsMarjan announced 80km Grand Loop and five-day Via Ferrata, trail improvements through 2026-27 season, biodiversity assessment findings, and quotes from Donald Bremner
- travelandtourworld.comTravel and Tour WorldGrand Loop development scheduled to start from January, project developed by Marjan as master developer of Ras Al Khaimah
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