Photo: Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Centre
As a group of 29 camel trekkers made their way to the final Expo 2020 site this week, the riders received a surprise visit from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai. The group is part of the UAE’s famous Camel Trek, organized by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center (HHC), which tests the participants to live the old Bedouin desert lifestyle.
Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid waved at the trekkers and congratulated them. Photo: Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Centre
Returning with its 8th edition, the race began on December 9, and is expected to end on December 21, after the trekkers have travelled over more than 500km in UAE’s deserts from the Liwa Empty Quarter in Western Abu Dhabi to Al Forsan Park in Expo 2020 Dubai. Bringing participants from different cultural backgrounds, the annual trek requires a high level of fitness and training for one to qualify to join the desert adventure. The shortlisted 30 males and females had to learn how to travel in a caravan, and familiarize themselves with the old living ways of the Bedouins. They followed a prepared route, rested at designated camping stations in the middle of the desert, and were equipped with all necessary survival requirements like food, drinks, individual tents, and camels.
Photo: Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Centre
During their journey through Seeh Al Salam, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid made his way to them, wished them good luck, gave them a wave, and congratulated them on their successful trip. The Dubai ruler also met the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center’s chief executive, Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook, to thank him for promoting the UAE’s cultural heritage within different cultures and parts of the world. “It is a matter of pride and honor that we showcase the UAE’s cultural heritage at the world’s biggest stage,” said Dalmook.
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