Wadi Kub | The Rainbow Mountains of RAK
Event Date
October 11, 2026
Event Time
7:00 am
Event Description
PRE-SEASON HIKE – A WARM-UP BEFORE THE SEASON BEGINS
Before the new AFT hiking season officially begins, we’re heading back to the mountains for a few special pre-season hikes – a chance to warm up, reconnect with the trails, and get ready for another season of adventures.
Discover the colourful side of the Hajar Mountains. Explore Wadi Kub, a hidden gem of Ras Al Khaimah, where dramatic rock formations and vibrant metamorphic layers create one of the UAE’s most unusual mountain landscapes.
Please note: This is a pre-season hike and is not included in the AFT Pass or Trial Pass. A separate booking is required to participate.
Wadi Kub is one of Ras Al Khaimah’s hidden mountain gems, tucked away from the highest peaks and deep into the dramatic valleys. Known for its strikingly colourful rock formations, the wadi reveals layers of metamorphic rock in shades of red, orange, purple and green – creating a landscape that feels almost unreal.
The trail winds through the heart of the wadi, passing towering rock walls, unusual formations and colourful geological layers shaped by millions of years of natural forces. Every turn reveals a different texture, colour or perspective, making this hike as much about exploration as it is about the journey itself. A remote and visually spectacular corner of the Hajar Mountains, Wadi Kub offers a rare chance to experience one of the UAE’s most distinctive mountain landscapes far from the usual trails.
Little over an hour drive from Dubai. Along the way to the town of Taween (Fujairah) in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
BEGINNERS PLUS – LEVEL 4/10
This hike is suitable for physically fit beginner hikers, those with basic local hiking experience. Participants should be active and comfortable with a somewhat challenging hike and up to 5 hours of walking. Participants must be able to carry a backpack weighing up to 5 kg for the duration of the hike.
Physically active children aged 10 and above are welcome to join.
To learn more about AFT’s hiking difficulty levels and find the level most suitable for your fitness and experience, please follow the link.
| LEVEL: | Beginners Plus |
| DIFFICULTY: | 4/10 |
| DISTANCE: | ± 7 km |
| DURATION: | ~4,5 hours |
| ELEVATION GAIN: | ± 210 m |
| TERRAIN: | A mix of off-road track, wadi trail, boulders and uneven rocky slopes. |
| NOTE: | The route profile reflects the planned route. Actual distance, elevation gain and duration may vary depending on trail conditions, weather and the group’s pace and ability. The hike leader may adjust the route during the hike when necessary. |
Insurance coverage
Professional mountain guide(s) and assistant guide(s)
Certified Wilderness First Aiders
Gear advice, hiking tips and local knowledge about UAE flora & fauna
Carpooling assistance, subject to available space
Hiking Gear
Vehicle insurance
The list below is a general guide to help you prepare for the hike. Final recommendations may vary depending on the route and weather conditions and will be shared with confirmed participants before the event.
Please make sure to bring the following essentials:
– A small backpack with cushioned shoulder and waist straps
– Mid- to high-cut hiking boots or hiking shoes with good grip
– Energy bars and snacks
– At least 2 litres of water, plus electrolytes/hydration drinks
– Comfortable, loose-fitting hiking trousers and a shirt
– Sun protection: hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
All cars can reach the hike starting point. A 4×4 vehicle is not required for this event.
Carpooling is coordinated among confirmed participants through a dedicated WhatsApp group. While we do our best to help participants find a ride, carpooling availability cannot be guaranteed.
A WhatsApp group will be created 24-36 hours before the event for confirmed participants, where you may be able to find a ride partner. If you are unable to find a suitable carpool option, the full cost of the hike will be refunded.
All first-time participants must complete the AFT Waiver & Emergency Information Forms, which will be sent after payment is received.
Participants must carry their Emirates ID or a copy of their passport with them during the hike.
Bookings are accepted exclusively through the AFT website: www.aftadventures.com.
Signing up or expressing interest through social media, messaging apps or any other platform does not guarantee your spot. Your place is confirmed only after completing the booking and payment through the AFT website.
Registration usually closes approximately 24 hours before the hike starts. However, as spaces are limited, registration may close earlier once the hike reaches full capacity. We strongly recommend booking early to secure your place.