The Middle East’s premier long-distance hiking event, Highlander, returns to Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE for its fifth anniversary edition from 6-8 February 2026.
Adventurers from across the globe will take on the UAE’s most breathtaking trails on Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak at 6,345 feet (1,934m), exploring the beauty and heritage of the region.
Organized by Highlander Adventure, the world’s largest international hiking series, and supported by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), the 2026 edition promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience combining endurance, nature, and culture. Participants will journey through the UAE’s most extensively developed hiking network, spanning 94 kilometres across the dramatic Hajar Mountains.
With the growing global demand for adventure travel, hosting a long-distance hiking and backpacking event as a mass-participation sport reinforces the Ras Al Khaimah’s as a leading adventure tourism destination in the region. The event encourages deeper engagement, blending adventure with cultural discovery, sustainability, and community spirit.
Along the trails, hikers will pass through mountain settlements that reflect the enduring history, traditions, and daily life of the tribes who once thrived in these rugged areas. These living remnants of the past offer participants a rare glimpse into the mountain tribe’s cultural fabric and the resilience of its people. Beyond the trail, Highlander’s signature camp programmes further deepen the destination experience. Participants will enjoy live cooking stations featuring local cuisine, providing a direct and personal interaction with the mountain communities who proudly share their culinary traditions. The camp experience will also include special wildlife sessions led by renowned wildlife photographer Bachar Bouka, introducing hikers to the diverse species that inhabit the Hajar Mountains.
Phillipa Harrison, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “Hosting Highlander for the fifth consecutive year underlines our commitment to promoting wellness, experiential travel and connection with nature. The event perfectly aligns with our vision for engaging the local community and positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.”
Fadi Hachicho, managing director of Highlander Adventure UAE and founder of Adventurati Outdoor, said: “With more than 250 participants, last year’s edition successfully positioned Ras Al Khaimah on the global adventure tourism stage, attracting hikers from 35 countries who travelled from around the world to take part in this adventure of a lifetime. We remain committed to showcasing the rich heritage and culture of Ras Al Khaimah through every event we organize, while continuously enhancing our camp experiences with more entertainment and wellness initiatives.”
The 2025 edition of Highlander Ras Al Khaimah will offer participants hiking adventures across three signature formats:
• HIGHLANDER Pegasus: 3-Day format covering 37 km from 6-8 February 2026
Participants will have the option to tackle one of the two most iconic and challenging trails in the UAE: the Wadi Latibah Trail (Stairway to Heaven) or the Wadi Ghalilah Trail.
• HIGHLANDER Orion: 2-Day format covering 25 km from 7-8 February 2026
Participants carry all their essential gear—including camping, hiking, and cooking equipment—throughout the journey, camping under the stars each night and immersing themselves in Ras Al Khaimah’s mountain landscapes.
• HIGHLANDER Lyra: 1-Day format covering 13 km on 8 February 2026
Featuring a new trail designed to be more accessible while still offering a rewarding challenge for first-time participants, this format allows hikers to connect with those taking part in the other categories, culminating together at the shared finish and celebration point. Participants carry only the essential gear for a day hike, without the need for camping or cooking equipment—making it an ideal introduction for those looking to build confidence, skills, and stamina before taking on the longer Highlander adventures.
Aligned with Ras Al Khaimah’s vision for sustainable tourism, Highlander Adventure said it inspires participants to embrace the great outdoors while minimising their environmental impact. The event actively promotes “Leave No Trace” principles through on-ground activations and participant communication, reinforcing the importance of responsible travel and environmental stewardship.
Registration for the 2026 Highlander Adventure is now open. Participants can take advantage of the promo code RAKHL20 for a 20% discount on all individual registrations across all 3 formats.
Participants who complete the full trail receive a Highlander Adventure finisher badge and certificate, ID, Bib number, map and access to an exclusive finish point celebration.
