UAE: Dh10,000 fine for organising treks in RAK without a licence

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has strictly prohibited companies, tour operators, or individuals from organising treks or mountain sports events without obtaining a permit.

Violators will have to pay a penalty of Dh10,000, the authority confirmed to Khaleej Times on Saturday.

The announcement comes after several hiking and trekking-related accidents were reported in the mountainous regions of RAK.

In late January this year, an Asian trekker in his 30s was rescued after falling off a mountain in Daya Valley. The incident was the latest in a string of trekking accidents that saw a spike since the winter and adventure season started in the UAE.

A couple of weeks ago, a 50-year-old Emirati slipped and fell off a cliff. There was also an instance where an exhausted trekker fainted on a mountain and another incident where a man broke his leg.

In a bid to safeguard the public, the tourism department authorities have also released a list of dos and don’ts for hiking enthusiasts.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

> Plan your route and get home safely.

> Stay on the official trails and do not hike alone.

> Check the weather.

> Stay hydrated and carry a first-aid kit.

> Wear appropriate boots, hats, clothing, use special hiking equipment and sufficient sunscreen.

> Do not litter.

> Alcohol, loud music and drones are prohibited.

> Stay away from all private lands, farms and wildlife.

Dhanusha Gokulan

Originally from India, Dhanusha Gokulan has been working as a journalist for over ten years. For Khaleej Times, she covers NRI affairs, civil aviation, and immigration issues among other things. She completed her BA in Journalism, Economics and English Literature from Mangalore University in 2008 and is currently pursuing her MA in Leadership and Innovation in Contemporary Media at the American University in Dubai. In her spare time, she dabbles with some singing/songwriting, loves food, and is mom to an over-enthusiastic Labrador retriever. Tweet at her @shootsprintrite.