Gray Skull Canyon | Abseiling for Beginners

This experience is designed for adventurous beginners ready to explore one of Ras Al Khaimah’s most scenic and dramatic canyons. Wadi Kebdah is known for its impressive limestone walls and unique atmosphere, often compared to Petra – offering a true sense of adventure in a safe, guided environment.

The route includes walking through rugged terrain, basic scrambling, and an introduction to abseiling techniques. A short training session will be provided on-site, allowing participants to build confidence and learn essential canyoning skills before entering the canyon.

This experience is ideal for physically fit beginners who already have some local hiking experience and are looking to take their outdoor journey a step further.

Due to the nature of the terrain and abseiling, this experience is not recommended for individuals with a fear of heights!

This experience is designed as an introduction to abseiling and canyoning for beginners – no prior experience is required. However, a basic comfort with heights and a willingness to learn are essential. Previous abseiling experience is welcome, but not necessary.

BEGINNERS PLUS 4/10 level hike is suitable for physically fit beginner hikers of AFT, those with basic local hiking experience. The attendees must be able to walk with a 4 to 5 kg pack for the duration of the hike.

NOT suitable for kids below 14 years or anyone scared of walking on loose rocks.

In the Emirates of RAK, about 1.5 hour drive distance from Dubai this is a beautiful canyon, famous among rock climbers. The canyon walls provide a feel of being in Petra – Jordan but instead of red walls of sandstone, we have grey limestone.

Duration: +/- 9 hours (with training session)
Start elevation: 35 meters
Highest point: 320 meters
Total distance: +/-6 km (out & back)

– Insurance coverage
– Guide and assistant Guide/-s
– Certified Wilderness First Aiders
– Trail skills & hiking tips
– Nature, culture & history insights
– All required gear for abseiling (helmet, harness, ropes, etc.)
– Introduction to abseiling
– Gear advise, hiking tips & tricks
– Carpooling assistance (based on available space)

– Hiking gear
– Vehicle insurance

– A small backpack with cushioned shoulder and waist straps
– Mid to high cut hiking boots (no joggers)
– Stretchable hiking clothing. Avoid jeans, tank top and shorts (due to sharp rocks)
– Energy bars/snacks & some light meal
– Gloves (half-finger gym gloves)
– Water 4 liters and electrolytes (highly recommended)
– Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
– Headlamp with extra batteries
– Wet wipes

All first-time participants must complete the AFT Waiver & Emergency Information forms. The form links will be automatically shared in your confirmation email after booking.

Please make sure to carry your Emirates ID with you during the hike.

Any car can reach the hike start point. 4×4 cars are NOT mandatory.
Carpooling is organized between the paid participants. A WhatsApp group will be created for confirmed participants where you’ll be able to find a ride partner.

Our Summer Events Series exists for one reason: to continue training and movement in the mountains through the warmer months – safely, deliberately, and with full awareness of the conditions. These events are not designed for comfort, and they are not suitable for everyone. Participation is only recommended for those who are physically prepared, experienced in warm-weather hiking, and capable of managing hydration, pacing, and personal responsibility under heat stress.

The objective is simple: maintain consistency. Mountains don’t disappear in summer – but the margin for error becomes smaller. This series is built around that reality.

We adapt by planning early morning and late afternoon movements, selecting routes with elevation where possible, and structuring the experience to reduce exposure – not eliminate it. Heat remains a factor, and every participant must be ready to operate within it. Preparation, discipline, and awareness are non-negotiable. This is not about chasing conditions – it’s about training within them.

We continue to follow all official government guidelines and will adjust or pause activities if required to ensure safety and compliance.