Crag features

BRIEF HISTORY

The development of this beautiful area started long time ago (for UAE standards) with the first routes dating back (indicatively) to 2008. The development, mostly led by a group of British trad climbers, was unfortunately halted due to misunderstandings with locals, who did not understand the intentions of the bolters and were afraid they would steal their honey, and disturb their goats. Since then much work has been done to repair relations. Recently (Feb 2017), communications have been reestablished. Locals have been very friendly and did not show any resentment for past bolting activities. We still invite all climbers and bolters to behave responsibly and follow all the recommendations below.

RESPECT THE AREA

This crag is one of the biggest sport climbing area in the UAE with potential for further development. Rock quality is generally better than in the neighboring wadi of Stardust. Respect of the location and of the agreements with the locals are a key condition for the climbing community to keep enjoying the area. We strongly recommend to: • Keep dogs away from farm animals and always on a leash (or at home). • Do not leave any trash behind – and encourage other to behave likewise. • Park only in the recommended area (see coordinates below) and in any case outside the village and far from goat farm / houses on the left side of the wall. • Bolters: avoid bolting too close to the village. Limit bolting activities to where sport routes already exist (East of sector A) or further into the Wadi. An old agreement with locals includes a voluntary ban on development of the impressive main headwall as you arrive at the crag. We recommend to stick to this.

• To the extent that it is possible, coordinate to avoid big groups of 4 or more cars (e.g., on whatsup). If you see many climbers’ cars as you arrive, try to park farther from the village / houses even if it requires a slightly longer approach. • Should any local complain about your presence, kindly avoid arguing and accommodate for his / her request (which might include interrupting any climbing or bolting activity); the authors of this topo would greatly appreciate if you could report any issue with the locals, so that we can monitor the situation closely.