The Jebel Jais Observation Deck is set to open in October of this year, as per a statement by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA). The observation deck will be located close to the summit of Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak which rises 1,934 metres above sea level.

The deck will offer several viewing platforms, and is being designed to serve as a base camp for adventure seekers and fitness fanatics. The development will also feature an events arena, picnic areas, several walking paths, and a dedicated food truck zone.

The project is being developed by RAKTDA, which manages, regulates and promotes the emirate’s tourism industry. The authority says the deck will enable visitors to experience the views, flora and fauna, and bird life of the emirate’s Al Hajar Mountain range, which borders Oman.

“The appeal will extend beyond the very active. The deck will let visitors take in stunning sea and mountain views, and the magnificent sunrises and sunsets, which cast a dancing performance of light and shadow over the area every morning and evening. The Jebel Jais Observation Deck will also include a versatile events arena and a permanent area for food trucks, serving members of the public and international guests who want to experience the fresh mountain air in temperatures that are traditionally around 10 degrees lower than the UAE average,” explained Haitham Mattar, CEO, RAKTDA.

The deck will be illuminated by solar power and will be built some 1,300 metres above sea level. Speaking about the project, Mattar explained that the site’s long-term sustainability played a key role in its design and operational functionality.

“Having signed as a sponsor of the UNWTO’s International Year for Sustainable Tourism for Development, sustainability is a key component of Ras Al Khaimah’s overall tourism proposition. In addition to solar providing an obvious solution to lighting the facility, we have worked very hard to implement natural, locally-sourced materials into the site – we want the Jebel Jais Observation Deck to blend as seamlessly as possible into the mountain façade,” added Mattar.

Through the Ras al Khaimah’s Vision 2019 tourism strategy, the emirate aims to attract one million visitors by the end of next year. In line with that, RAKTDA is investing in a range of adventure and wellness products, which leverage the emirate’s natural assets, with a key focus on Jebel Jais and the surrounding area.