Embarking on a 1,000-kilometer journey across Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 22, a diverse group of 100 young Emiratis and expatriates from 35 nationalities will promote UAE heritage.
Known as the ‘Mesrah Mission,’ this venture, organized by Emirates Foundation and Active Abu Dhabi, is part of the Year of Community 2025 initiative, which emphasizes community involvement in national identity projects.
Participants will form five teams and stay at 15 camps along the route. The “Mesrah” journey traces ancient nomadic paths, starting in Al Sila in Al Dhafra, moving through the Liwa Desert, Jebel Hafeet, and Al Ain, and finishing in Al Wathba on December 22.
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Over two weeks, participants will trek significant distances daily through varied natural landscapes, fostering resilience, perseverance, discipline, and teamwork — offering a unique, heritage-inspired experience, organizers noted.
The initiative supports the UAE’s mission to solidify youth’s national identity and deepen their cultural and historical connections through experiential learning, they added.
Photo: Emirates Foundation and Active Abu Dhabi
Before starting this historic journey, participants received theoretical and practical training from the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, which included camel riding, Emirati “sana’a” etiquette, and traditional desert navigation skills — all aimed at immersing youth in the ancestral lifestyle.
Core Values
“Mesrah Mission is more than a desert expedition; it’s a values-driven experience that enhances young people’s connection to their heritage, builds teamwork and community spirit, and encourages meaningful contributions to the nation’s future,” said Ahmad Taleb Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation.
Mansour Al Dhaheri, chairman of Active Abu Dhabi, emphasized the “initiative’s goal of motivating youth to engage in physical activities inspired by Emirati heritage, strengthening their connection to national traditions and culture through a blend of sports and national identity.”
Khalfan Al Kaabi, director of the Mesrah Initiative, confirmed that logistical preparations are ready to support the mission, with medical, security, and technical teams accompanying participants throughout to ensure safety and coordination.
Participants expressed eagerness for this unique experience. Fatima Al Hosani stated that the mission allows them to “experience the stark contrast between past and present living conditions, showcasing the significant national efforts contributing to today’s well-being.”
Yevhenii, a 31-year-old participant from Ukraine, shared his admiration for the UAE, saying it inspired him to join the mission to learn more about Emirati customs and heritage.
