Camel Trek Participants Embark On A Cultural Journey Across The UAE's Western Desert

The UAE's rich heritage is being celebrated through the 11th Camel Trek, a 13-day desert journey involving 33 participants from 17 nations. This trek, which began on December 9 in the Empty Quarter, will conclude at the Heritage Village in Global Village on December 21. Participants are currently traversing the Western Desert's vast sands, embodying the spirit of the UAE.

The caravan set off from Arada and has passed several key locations, including Tel Marib and Al Maha Sanctuary "Bab bin Madhiah." The route continues through Al Thuqaybah and Al Khazna before reaching Saih Al Salam. The trek covers approximately 45 to 50 kilometers daily, thanks to the team's deep understanding of desert geography.

Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmouk, CEO of the Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Centre, leads this remarkable journey. He expressed gratitude for the support from national partners like Dubai Ambulance and Abu Dhabi Police. Their collaboration reflects the UAE's commitment to preserving its heritage while connecting people with their history and land.

"We are incredibly grateful to all our national partners," he said. "This Camel Trek is a product of shared vision and collective effort, a partnership that reflects the UAE’s dedication to preserving its heritage while fostering a deeper connection between its people, history, and land."

The trek has not been without challenges. Sandstorms and harsh terrain tested participants early on. However, guided by experienced leaders, they overcame these obstacles with resilience. Bin Dalmouk noted that their deep connection to the land has been crucial in navigating these difficulties.

"We’ve faced our share of hurdles, but the team’s resilience has been remarkable," bin Dalmouk said. "Our deep connection to these lands, built over years of experience, has made all the difference. The spirit of the journey is about overcoming the desert’s challenges while embracing the silence and beauty it offers."

For many participants, this trek is more than just an endurance challenge; it's an opportunity to immerse themselves in the UAE's cultural roots. Amina Abdullah Al Naqbi from Sharjah Museums Authority shared her excitement about joining this journey after years of anticipation.

"I’ve been dreaming of this moment for years," she said. "Preparing mentally and physically for the desert trek was no small feat, but the training from the Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Center and the constant guidance from Abdullah bin Dalmouk made all the difference. Every step in this desert feels like we’re walking through history."

Ivan Kovalenko from Russia also found profound meaning in his participation. Initially expecting a simple camel ride, he discovered it was a true test of patience and strength while learning about Emirati traditions.

"At first, I thought it would be a simple camel ride," he admitted. "But this journey has been so much more—it’s a true test of patience, strength, and endurance. Along the way, I’ve learned not just about the desert but about the traditions of the Emirati people, their hospitality, and the deep respect they have for this land."

Bin Dalmouk emphasised that preserving heritage is more than duty; it's a mission uniting everyone involved. Through this trek, they aim to inspire future generations to cherish and continue their cultural legacy with pride.

"Preserving our heritage is not just an act of duty but a mission that unites us all," he stated. "Through our work and this journey, we aim to inspire future generations to carry forward the rich cultural legacy that makes the UAE so unique."

With inputs from WAM