Jebel al-Harim (also known Jebel As-Sayah or Mountain of Women) is an impressive mountain peak reaching 2056m above the sea level. It is the highest mountain in Musandam – a peninsula that is part of Oman, bordering the United Arab Emirates. The peak, also known as Jebel as-Sayh is the highest mountain in Musandam. The road to the summit is totally unpaved and pretty rough with 9 switchbacks through limestone formations. The summit of the mountain is off-limits to the public as there is a radar station used for military purposes. The peak got its name from the days when local women would retreat to caves up here in order to avoid being carried off by pirates or rival tribes when men were going for hunting or fishing for a long time.

The route is part of Route 3 in 38 Adventurous routs – Oman – Off-Road book.

Pros: striking scenery, petroglyphs, camping at altitude, cooler than Khasab by about 5-10C

Cons: stick to the main road if you travel in one car

Other resources:

The Wild Road to Jebel al-Harim