As temperatures in the United Arab Emirates reach their summer peaks, most residents avoid outdoor activities, seeking refuge indoors. However, Matthew May, an engineer, outdoor content creator, and founder of the UAE trail running community, takes a different approach by regularly hiking the country’s tallest mountains during the hottest months.

May, who grew up near a national park in Wales, said his passion for the outdoors stems from a lifelong connection to nature. “Being outdoors, especially climbing mountains, provides me with a sense of calm, a sense of freedom, and a way to stay fit in beautiful places,” he explained.

In the intense summer heat, May emphasizes that elevation offers relief from oppressive temperatures. He notes that reaching higher altitudes in the UAE results in lower humidity and cooler conditions, providing short but valuable respites from the heat. “It’s not like I’m going out for a summer hike just to be in the heat. I climb to a certain elevation to get out of it,” he said.

Safety is a primary concern for May, who plans his hikes meticulously to avoid dangerous conditions. His summer hiking schedule often requires starting very early in the morning—sometimes as early as 2 a.m.—or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday sun. He insists on summiting peaks above 1,000 meters elevation only and strictly avoids unfamiliar routes during the summer months. “I need to know the route, the distance, and the estimated time. It’s too risky to do new routes,” he stated.

May describes summer hiking in the UAE as more of a mental than a physical challenge. He draws on his experience as an ultra-runner to highlight the importance of mental conditioning when facing severe heat. He recalled instances when he felt faint or nearly lost consciousness and stressed the importance of responding calmly by resting, hydrating, and replenishing salts and sugars before continuing.

Despite his experience, May warns that summer hiking without proper preparation can be deadly, especially for inexperienced individuals. “It is extremely dangerous, especially if you’re a beginner,” he cautioned. He highlighted numerous incidents and fatalities involving ill-prepared hikers in the UAE’s harsh climate.

For those choosing to venture outdoors, May insists on carrying ample water and snacks, a fully charged phone, a first aid kit, sun protection, and a GPS device. He also strongly advises against hiking alone during the summer months. He recommends that only individuals with several years of mountain experience attempt summer hikes.

As a safer option, May points to Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, noting its comparatively milder conditions at the summit during summer. Although the mountain road has been closed following earlier flooding this year, he hopes it will reopen soon. He advises hikers to start early or late to avoid direct sunlight and maximize safety.

For May, the mountains represent a place of natural beauty and personal challenge, but also a setting that commands respect, especially when summer temperatures soar.