Ras Al Khaimah is set to host the Gulf region’s first Highlander hiking experience in November as it continues to build on its adventure tourism reputation.
Highlander, the only certified international hiking association in the world, is widely renowned for its curated hiking experiences. Currently there are 20 adventures taking place annually in 15 countries worldwide.
Ras Al Khaimah will join the ranks of iconic locations such as Austria, Bosnia, Croatia, Egypt, Greece, Russia and Portugal, all of which have played host to Highlander hikes.
Running from Wadi Ghalilah to Shimal, the inaugural edition of the self-guided event will lead international visitors and local hikers along clearly flagged routes with more than half situated off-trail.
Intrepid adventurers have two options based on experience and fitness levels – Highlander55 (55km hike over three days) and HighlanderExperience (30km hike over two days) carrying everything they need for the trip to be self-sufficient.
Both routes will challenge hikers physically across the rugged terrain of the Ras Al Khaimah mountain landscape. Every hiker must be committed to nature preservation aiming to complete the hike leaving no trace of their journey apart from footprints and photos capturing the stunning mountain views.
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The hiking experiences also include sessions such as yoga, Leave No Trace talks, travel talks and the chance to share local folklore, when at the camps.
Highlander hikes first took place in Croatia in 2017 and has since grown into a leading hiking series globally.
Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “Ras Al Khaimah is a firm favourite amongst the hiking community in the UAE and within that spirit, our partnership with internationally-recognised Highlander will only elevate our stunning mountain terrain to a global audience.
“This launch marks the latest in a series of new, sustainable and nature-focused experiences as we look for ways in which to immerse our guests in the natural beauty of our emirate and protect its diverse surroundings for generations to enjoy for years to come.”
Fadi Hachicho, managing director of Highlander UAE and founder of Adventurati Outdoor, added: “We are already looking into the possibility of expanding the experience to two or even three times a year, each on a new trail; there is so much potential here in the emirate.”
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