By the end of this year, visitors to Ras Al Khaimah will have the chance to experience “the next best thing to flying” through the world’s longest zip line.

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), along with partners Toro Verde, the world’s leading zip line operator, officially announced the project yesterday.

Set to become the emirate’s flagship tourism product, the zip line will open on the UAE’s highest peak of Jebel Jais in December and break the current Guinness world record of 2,200 metres long held by Puerto Rico’s ‘The Monster’, also developed and operated by Toro Verde.

While the exact length is being kept secret until the opening, the zip line will reach 1,800m above sea level from the launching pad, average approximately three minutes per ride and send participants travelling anywhere from 90 to 120 kilometres per hour at max speed.

Haitham Mattar, RAKTDA CEO, believes the project will significantly boost Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism, while being a case study for eco-tourism as solar energy and natural materials will be used to enhance the mountain’s natural experience.

“Building on the success of last year’s launch of the Jebel Jais Via Ferrata adventure product, the new zip line represents Ras Al Khaimah’s most significant tourism product opening since Al Marjan Island, our coral-shaped leisure tourism archipelago,” said Mattar.

“This key product launch will further enhance Ras Al Khaimah’s unique mountain-beach-desert offering as the emirate moves towards its goal of attracting one million visitors next year, under the guidance and vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.”

In addition to the construction of two zip lines, the project will include a Welcome Centre with a lounge, restaurant, lockers, equipment storage and offices.

Visitors of all ages can use the zip line, with a minimum weight requirement of 35kg and minimum height of 120cm.