Emirates Foundation And Active Abu Dhabi Launch Mesrah Mission To Empower Youth Through Heritage Expedition

The Emirates Foundation and Active Abu Dhabi have introduced the Mesrah Mission, selecting 100 young individuals for a 1,000-kilometre journey across Abu Dhabi. This initiative, part of the Year of Community 2025, aims to empower youth through a community-focused experience that combines physical activity with Emirati heritage while emphasising the community's role in supporting national identity.

Training was conducted under the guidance of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority. Participants learned camel riding, Emirati sana’a etiquette, and traditional desert navigation skills. These activities immerse them in the lifestyle and mobility patterns of their ancestors. The official start marks the transition of all 100 participants into the full expedition.

The mission will commence on 8th December, with participants divided into five teams across 15 camps, concluding on 22nd December. Over two weeks, they will walk significant distances each day through diverse natural environments that instil resilience, perseverance, discipline, and teamwork.

The Mesrah route follows ancient nomadic paths starting in Al Sila in Al Dhafra. It passes through the Liwa Desert, Jebel Hafeet and Al Ain before ending in Al Wathba. This journey supports UAE’s efforts to strengthen national identity among youth and deepen their connection to cultural roots through experiential learning.

Strategic partners at the launch included Ali and Sons as the official sponsor and PureHealth for medical services. Supporting entities were Mawhibat, Nafis, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Police Heritage Center, Ministry of Defense, Abu Dhabi Police GHQ and Abu Dhabi Sports Council.

Khalfan Al Kaabi, Director of the Mesrah Initiative, confirmed logistical arrangements are ready. Medical, security and technical teams will accompany participants throughout to ensure safety and coordination. He noted that extensive media coverage will allow public engagement with its progress.

Participant Experiences

Participants expressed enthusiasm for joining an experience that deepens their connection to Emirati heritage and traditions passed across generations. They reflected on contrasts between their ancestors' challenging lifestyles and today's comfort due to UAE’s wise leadership.

Fatima Al Hosani from ADNOC highlighted differences between past living conditions and current well-being standards achieved through national efforts. Yevhenii from Ukraine joined out of admiration for UAE customs while three sisters noted strengthened bonds across generations.

Mission Goals and Objectives

Mansour Al Dhaheri from Active Abu Dhabi stated that this initiative encourages youth to engage in physical activity inspired by Emirati heritage. It strengthens their connection to national traditions by blending sport with national identity.

Ahmad Taleb Al Shamsi from Emirates Foundation said this mission aligns with their strategy to empower youth while strengthening societal contributions. He emphasised it is "not merely a desert expedition but a values-driven experience" enhancing connections to heritage while fostering teamwork.

This initiative highlights youth's role in reviving Emirati heritage while promoting active lifestyles linking sport with national pride as part of Year of Community 2025.

With inputs from WAM