Mondays. The dreaded start of the week, where coffee becomes a lifeline and emails pile up faster than you can say “deadline.” But let me tell you something: mountains are the ultimate cure for Monday blues. Why? Because they don’t care about your inbox, your boss, or your Zoom calls. Mountains are pure freedom – and here the rugged peaks of Fujairah, Ras al Khaima and Hatta, they’re calling your name.

Mountains vs Mondays: a battle of epic proportions

Picture this: It’s Monday morning, and you’re stuck in traffic on Hessa Street, wondering why you didn’t just stay in bed.

Now imagine this instead: trekking through Wadi Galilah, with the sun rising over jagged peaks and the only sound being your boots crunching on rocky terrain. The choice is obvious, right?

Realisation

One of my favorite moments was hiking the Stairway to Heaven trail on a Friday evening and reaching the summit by sunset. As the last rays of light disappear over the Arabian Gulf, I realized that mountains don’t demand anything from you – they simply offer their beauty and challenge. Mondays? They demand everything.

Funny tales from the trail

Of course, mountain adventures come with their own quirks. Once, a hiker showed up for a trek in sandals (yes, sandals with heel straps). By the end of the hike, they had more blisters than the number of toes on their feet. Another time, someone packed a full icebox strapped to their backpack. They didn’t tell me what they were carrying in it but by the time we reached summit, they were up for a surprise. The ice melted and the chocolate dessert was now a chocolate drink of some sort. These moments remind me that while mountains are forgiving, your gear choices might not be.

Why UAE’s Hajar Mountains are perfect for escaping Mondays

The Hajar Mountains offer something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned hikers. Trails like Wadi Shawka are perfect for those looking to dip their toes into adventure without feeling overwhelmed. With breathtaking views and diverse terrain ranging from sandy patches to sharp rocks, every step feels like a reward.

A Personal Note from Your Guide

As someone who’s led countless hikes across the UAE and beyond – including summiting Kilimanjaro eight times, I’ve learned one thing: mountains teach you resilience, humility, and joy. Whether you’re tackling the Stairway to Heaven or exploring Hatta’s winding wadis, every trail has its own story – and I’m here to help you write yours.

So next time Monday rolls around and you feel stuck in routine, remember this: the mountains are waiting. And they’re way better than business meetings.

Ready to escape Mondays? Join us at AFT Adventures for guided hikes across the UAE’s stunning Hajar Mountains!
Let’s trade deadlines for summits and emails for epic views.

Follow my adventures on Instagram @faisi.shalmani or check out our upcoming hikes @aft.adventures