When I first started hiking in the UAE around late 2016, my goal was to conquer the legendary Stairway to Heaven in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. At the time, detailed information about the trail was almost nonexistent. There were no distinctions between the Right Bank and Left Bank; it was simply known as a challenge reserved for the toughest hikers. Adventure tour companies didn’t promote it at all, making it a true hidden gem for those willing to seek it out.
After my first attempt, hiking the Stairway to Heaven nearly became a yearly tradition for me up until 2023, and it remains my favorite UAE hike to this day. To help fellow hikers avoid confusion and plan their adventure, here’s a comprehensive guide to the full Stairway to Heaven loop trail through Wadi Litibah.
Important Disclaimer: The summit of the Stairway to Heaven lies within Omani territory. Recent reports indicate that crossing into Oman is now considered illegal, and hikers have been detained. While some still take the risk, I strongly advise proceeding with caution and having a backup plan if you encounter any issues.
💡 Looking for more hiking adventures in the UAE? Check these trails and events:
- Columbia Hike Society Outdoor Festival in the UAE: Hiking, History & Holistic Activities
- Sunset, Strangers & Summit: My First Hike with Columbia Hike Society in the UAE
- Wadi Naqab Loop Trail (Sheri Village, Jebel Yibir, Tala Village, Baqal Village)
- A chill hike in Wadi Shawka Loop Trail (Wadi Shawka Dam, Stairs, and Back)!
- Hidden Oasis (between Jebel Jais & Wadi of Giants)
Hiking Overview:
- Route: Stairway to Heaven Full Loop Trail (down to Wadi Litibah)
- Distance: 19.55 km
- Highest Elevation: 1,665 MASL
- Elevation Gain: 1,554 meters +/-
- Total Moving Time: 14 hours and 40 minutes (IDK where Strava gets that time, seriously)
- Day(s) Required: 1 day
- Difficulty Level (own opinion): 3 out of 5
- Best Season: Late October to early April
- Highlights: Staircases, UAE-Oman Border Post, Breathtaking view of the Wall, Mountain Villages
How to Get There & How to Finish the Loop
As I always mention about hiking in the UAE, most trailheads are not accessible by public transportation. For this hike, I won’t include public transport options, but you will find the coordinates for parking and the trailhead below.
Since this is a loop trail, you’ll finish your hike at the same spot where you started — at the bottom of the wadi where you parked your car. From there, you can drive back to Dubai or your point of origin.
Hiking Trailhead of Stairway to Heaven in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE:
From Wadi Ghalilah Dam, drive further along an off-road track to the pin location below.
A sedan can make it, but a 4x4 is recommended for comfort and safety. There’s a small parking area at the bottom of the wadi, but it fills up quickly on weekends, so make sure to arrive early if you can.
Stairway to Heaven Loop Trail Sections:
Even though the trail is long, I’ve divided it into four main sections. These landmarks are easy to recognize and help you keep track of progress.
1. Wadi Litibah, Junction & Grotto
The first section follows the Wadi Litibah trail (now called Stairway to Heaven – Right Bank) until the junction. If it’s your first time, stick to the right side of the wadi.
The trail has stone steps built by Pakistani shepherds. You’ll reach a stone table and benches near the fork. At the fork (it’s easy to miss), take the LEFT TRAIL for the authentic Stairway to Heaven.
Once on the left trail, the path becomes steeper and covered with scree, but it’s still recognizable. Continue until you reach the ‘Lonely Boulder’, then hike higher to the grotto.
Along the way, you may see colorful plants and flowers, depending on the season.
Look out for a lonely tree on the right — pass it and continue hiking until you hit the Wall landmark. Sounds like we’re in Game of Thrones, doesn't it?
2. Wall, Stairs & Roof of Stairway to Heaven
At the Wall, follow the path until you reach the first staircase. The first two are short but narrow, requiring careful movement. Stay left along the Wall and continue through about 5–7 staircases, with varying lengths and a few ledges.
At the top, you’ll reach the Summit / Roof, where the staircases end. Enjoy the view of quaint Omani villages. During my first hike, a few Omani locals were present, and they were happy to interact with us. We even took a group photo!
⚠️ Important Update (2023+): Recent reports indicate that interaction with Omani locals at the Summit/Roof is being avoided as some hikers have been reported to Omani authorities for illegal trespassing. Always observe from a safe distance and respect local laws.
3. Oman Crossing, Rolling Mountains, & Woh Village
From the Roof, you technically enter Omani territory. Walk towards the edge, and you will come across the UAE-Oman border posts.
Like in Madha, the famous Omani enclave inside the UAE, there is no active border control, but stay on the trail and avoid entering houses, as this is even more illegal.
Continue uphill to the Rolling Mountains. Look for reddish rocks (a mix of copper and iron) along the way.
Walk even further, and you will reach my favorite part. From this vantage point, you’ll see the Wall and Roof from afar — a breathtaking view!
Cross hill after hill; some parts are clearly marked trails, others are faint donkey paths.
Tip: Preserve your energy — this is a long section. You’ll also spot a structure at Jebel Al Harim (Google Maps calls it a mosque, but it resembles a military base).
4. Wadi Litibah, Coliseum, & Junction
Once you reach Woh Village (names vary), prepare for the descent. This section is long, winding, and has many stone steps built by shepherds. I loathe this part!
Here's what you should expect in this section:
- You’ll pass donkey farms, small villages, water tanks, and pipelines.
- There are viewing decks and stone benches to rest.
- After 2–3 hours (depending on pace), you’ll reach a section resembling a coliseum due to its low ceiling. Continue down to the junction where you started the loop in the morning.
As you descend from the right trail at the junction, congratulations — you’ve completed the full Stairway to Heaven loop! Follow the same path you took in the morning back to your parked car, and that’s it: you’ve successfully hiked the Stairway to Heaven in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE!
Final Thoughts on Stairway to Heaven in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE:
As I always say, we all have different adventure appetite or what I call #hikeppetite to begin with. So, a good trail for me might not be a good trail for you, and vice versa. And that’s completely okay — we don’t need to agree with anyone or everyone all the time. Anyhow, here’s my take on the Stairway to Heaven loop trail:
Pros:
- Endurance test: This trail is ideal for testing your stamina and hiking skills. It’s a great training ground if you’re preparing for longer hikes or future expeditions. For a similar challenge, try the Wadi Naqab Loop Trail.
- Technical challenge: The staircases and exposed sections along the Wall (with sheer cliffs) offer challenging, yet doable, scrambling. It’s perfect if you want to practice technical hiking skills, but know your limits and proceed with caution.
Cons:
- Long and demanding: This is a long trail for a day hike. Emergency evacuation, especially in the middle sections, can be difficult. Beginners should build fitness first.
- No water sources: Bring enough water for the entire hike. The nearest water is in Woh Village, but respect the local shepherds’ generosity.
- Trail is not well-marked: The loop is rugged and partially unestablished. Hike with someone experienced or who knows the trail well.
Even though this trail is popular, it isn’t for everyone. From the staircases of the old Shihu trail, to the Omani village, and the rugged terrain, the Stairway to Heaven loop in Ras Al Khaimah is an adventure that will challenge your skills and satisfy your thirst for exploration. Be fully prepared, respect your limits, and enjoy the journey!
Whatever decision you make, always remember to prepare beforehand, stay safe, and last but not least, enjoy the outdoors! #happyhiking!
With lots of love,
PINAYHAKAWATI 💗
AND AS A GENTLE OUTDOOR ETHICS REMINDER:
LEAVE NO TRACE!
One comment on “Stairway to Heaven Ras Al Khaimah – Full Hiking Loop Guide (Not the Right Bank!)”
I have read this blog, and it wonderfully captures the thrill of the Stairway to Heaven hike in Ras Al Khaimah. The breathtaking views and challenging trails make it a dream for adventure seekers! This hidden gem is a must-visit for those who love nature and exploration.