UAE residents can soon trek through the desert with camels; here's how
Active Abu Dhabi has launched a new initiative called Misrah, in which 100 participants will complete a 1,000 km heritage journey across the nation, on foot and using traditional modes of transportation. The trek promises to be a challenging but rewarding way to immerse yourself in Emirati culture and heritage, while learning new skills and exploring the country.
Training sessions
This exciting opportunity unfolds over two phases: a training phase and then the actual trek. The first phase will see 500 participants selected from a pool of applicants. If you are part of this group, you will be trained on the fundamentals of camel riding, Emirati traditional crafts, and folk arts.
The training modules are designed to immerse participants in authentic Emirati heritage. You will get to directly interact and care for camels, while learning about camel anatomy, how to assemble camel saddles, and how to use traditional tools such as water bags and saddle straps. Workshops on Emirati folk arts such as traditional performances, the art of welcoming guests, traditional campfire gathering, Emirati coffee preparation, and oral storytelling and folktales will be held during this phase.
At the end of this phase, 100 participants will be chosen to advance to the second stage: the 1,000 km heritage trek across the UAE desert over 30 days.
Who can participate?
Misrah is open to UAE citizens and residents of all nationalities aged 18 to 25. It is set to officially launch on August 21, 2025. The training sessions will be held four days a week from 4pm to 8pm, and will run until October 19. More details can be found on the Active Abu Dhabi website.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
an hour ago
- Zawya
Etihad Cargo celebrates two-year milestone with Ezhou Huahu Airport
EHU has enabled the movement of over 43,000 tonnes of exports and growing weekly services The partnership supports high-tech and e-commerce trade between China and the Middle East Abu Dhabi – Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is celebrating two successful years of operations at Ezhou Huahu Airport, marking a significant milestone in its strategic collaboration with SF Airlines. Since transitioning joint operations from Wuhan to Ezhou in August 2023, Etihad Airways is the first international airline to launch scheduled commercial freighter services in the region. Building on this milestone, Etihad Cargo expanded its presence at Ezhou Huahu Airport and announced a second weekly frequency in November 2023, followed by a third in July 2024, reflecting growing demand and operational momentum. Since August 2023, Etihad Cargo has operated two commercial freighter flights per week, one with Etihad Airways and the other with SF Airlines. From October 2023, the frequency increased to four flights per week, with two operated by Etihad Airways and the other two by SF Airlines. By July 2024, commercial freighter services had expanded further to five flights per week, with two operated by Etihad Airways and three by SF Airlines. Over the past two years, Etihad Cargo has operated 184 Boeing 777 freighter flights through Ezhou Huahu Airport in close cooperation with SF Airlines' over 200 flights with Boeing 747 freighters. The addition of a sixth weekly scheduled flight in July 2024, followed by a seventh in 2025, has further strengthened Etihad Cargo's network, improving connectivity and providing customers with faster and more efficient access to key global markets. In addition to scheduled services, charter freighter operations have also grown steadily. Etihad Cargo operated one charter freighter flight per week throughout 2024. From January to June 2025, the number of charter flights increased to three per week, supporting flexible and on-demand logistics solutions. Ezhou Huahu Airport began operations in 2022. The airport is Asia's first dedicated freighter hub and has been instrumental in enabling Etihad Cargo to deliver consistent and reliable service. Since 2023, more than 43,000 tonnes of export cargo and over 690 tonnes of import cargo have moved through Abu Dhabi via Ezhou Huahu Airport, reinforcing the hub's critical role in global logistics. Located in Hubei Province, the airport offers unrivalled domestic reach and growing international connectivity with 135 aircraft stands, dual 3,600-metre runways. 'This milestone reflects the operational success and strategic value of our collaboration with Ezhou Huahu Airport and SF Airlines,' said Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Airways. 'Ezhou's role as Asia's first dedicated freighter hub has allowed us to unlock new levels of efficiency and reach, particularly for time-sensitive e-commerce and high-tech shipments, supporting growing demand for cross-border e-commerce and high-tech shipments between China and the Middle East. The expansion to seven weekly freighter services strengthens our ability to offer reliable, time-sensitive logistics solutions across key global trade lanes.' Luo Guowei, Chairman of Hubei International Logistics Airport Co., Ltd., stated: "As the first international airlines to operate at Ezhou Airport, Etihad Airways has transported over 28,000 tons of cargo since launching the Abu Dhabi - Ezhou route. This has established an efficient two-way trade corridor spanning Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, injecting strong momentum into regional economic and trade exchanges. At this new starting point, Ezhou Airport will deepen strategic collaboration with Etihad Airways and SF Airlines. We will further increase route frequency, enhance cooperation on overseas warehouses, and jointly build efficient logistics channels connecting the world to China. This will forge new milestones in establishing an aviation trade hub for the Belt and Road Initiative." As Etihad Cargo continues to expand its global footprint, the relationship with Ezhou Huahu Airport remains a cornerstone of its Asia strategy, driving innovation, efficiency and mutual growth. The hub's advanced infrastructure, streamlined customs processes and proximity to key manufacturing centres have enabled Etihad Cargo to meet the rising demand for high-tech, automotive and e-commerce shipments. Looking ahead, Etihad Cargo will continue its presence at EHU, exploring opportunities for service enhancements and digital integration to further optimise end-to-end supply chain performance. About Etihad Cargo: Etihad Cargo is the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways. Since its establishment in 2004, Etihad Cargo has grown rapidly to become one of the world's leading air cargo carriers, offering customers a range of cargo products and services to five major continents. Its hub in Abu Dhabi is strategically located at the centre of the world's busiest trade lanes, providing an integral link between Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and Africa. In addition to general cargo, Etihad Cargo offers a wide range of specialty products including live animals, dangerous goods, valuables and vulnerables, personal effects, as well as its market leading cold chain products (the latter holding IATA's stringent Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators certifications for both Pharmaceutical and Perishables Logistics, as well as Live Animals Logistics). Media Contacts: Duty Media Officer, Etihad Airways Email: dutymediaofficer@ Omnia Ebrahim, IHC E-mail: Omnia@ About Ezhou Huahu Airport Zelda Zou WEBeijingEtihad@
Zawya
3 hours ago
- Zawya
AURAK gears up to support RAK's rising stature with new-age programs and unique initiatives
RAS AL KHAIMAH, UAE: In anticipation of the wide-ranging impact of Ras Al Khaimah's phenomenal growth across all sectors, including education, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is aligning its academic and research offerings with the emirate's ambitious trajectory. Ras Al Khaimah's holistic development continues at an accelerated pace, driven by a series of tourism, hospitality, and real estate projects, including the construction of the Middle East's first integrated gaming resort, and impressive milestones such as a 12%+ increase in tourism revenues and a 15% rise in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) visitors. Over the past few years, the emirate has emerged as a regional investment powerhouse, attracting global businesses, luxury developers, and major hospitality brands. In 2024 alone, Ras Al Khaimah welcomed 1.28 million visitors, and it is on track to reach 3.5 million by 2030. AURAK has been an integral part of this growth journey, a fact underscored by its stellar QS rankings. In 2023, the university earned the prestigious QS 5 Stars Plus rating, placing it among an elite group of universities worldwide. 'Ras Al Khaimah stands at the threshold of a bold new future, powered by a growth strategy that harmonizes the preservation of natural beauty and culture with modern attractions, services, and amenities,' said Dr. David Schmidt, President of AURAK. 'At AURAK, we are committed to supporting this transformation by enhancing and expanding our academic portfolio—bridging the gap between academia and the dynamic industries propelling RAK's unprecedented advancement.' As part of this vision, AURAK is bolstering its programs in key disciplines such as Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Robotics, Biotechnology, Engineering, and Hospitality and Tourism Management. AI will serve as a foundational element across many programs. Students in disciplines like Architecture, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and Civil Engineering can now complement their degrees with a Minor in Artificial Intelligence. AURAK is also prioritizing research and innovation through flagship initiatives, such as the Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence Center (ATAIC), the AURAK Center for Entrepreneurship (ACE), and the RAK Research and Innovation Center, a cutting-edge R&D facility specializing in alternative energy, especially solar technologies. To further support industry alignment, the university is actively strengthening its partnerships with the private and public sectors, particularly in response to the surge of new enterprises and government-led projects. During AURAK Career Week 2025, 32 companies visited campus to offer job and internship opportunities to students and recent graduates. The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has become a magnet for both tourists and investors, with headline-making projects like the $5.1 billion (AED 18.7 billion) Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort, slated to open in early 2027, and a wide array of luxury hospitality developments and adventure tourism attractions. The emirate also boasts a robust manufacturing base, contributing 27% to its GDP, in what is a highly diversified economy. Among its unique tourism offerings are the world's longest zipline (Jais Flight), the region's first Bear Grylls Explorers Camp, Jais Wings (the region's first dedicated paragliding site), and a new Via Ferrata experience for rock-climbing and mountaineering enthusiasts. Further reinforcing investor confidence, both Fitch and S&P Global upgraded Ras Al Khaimah's credit rating in 2024. Fitch raised the emirate's rating from A to A+, while S&P upgraded it from 'A-/A-2' to 'A/A-1', citing strong economic growth, fiscal stability, and a 'solid pipeline of tourism-related development projects' as key drivers. About the American University of Ras Al Khaimah The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), located in the United Arab Emirates, is a non-profit, public university that offers a comprehensive set of accredited and internationally recognized undergraduate and postgraduate programs. With a focus on holistic education and practical knowledge, AURAK prepares students to become global citizens who are innovators in their respective fields. Through partnerships with top global universities and organizations, AURAK provides students unparalleled opportunities to gain international exposure and experience. About Ras Al Khaimah Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the fourth largest Emirate in the UAE, is distinguished by its natural diversity, rich history and forward-thinking vision under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi. Guided by a commitment to sustainable development, economic prosperity, environmental conservation, social development and innovation, RAK has become an ideal place to live, work and invest. RAK offers a business-friendly environment with simplified, customizable services, low operating costs, 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax and one of the world's lowest corporate tax rates, supported by a strong, World Bank-recognized judicial system. With world-class infrastructure, RAK is home to over 50,000 companies, including industry leaders such as RAK Ceramics and Julphar. RAKEZ and RAK Digital Assets Oasis support dynamic growth across industrial, manufacturing and digital sectors, backed by a strong and future-focused economy that is validated by 'A'-range credit ratings for 15+ years from Fitch and S&P, both of which upgraded RAK in 2024, to 'A+' and 'A/A-1' respectively. RAK has a multicultural society of 0.4 million people from 150 countries, offering a high quality of life, accessible luxury living and a serene coastal lifestyle, with bold hospitality projects led by signature luxury global brands, such as Wynn, Four Seasons, Nobu, Waldorf Astoria and Ritz-Carlton making it a vibrant, growing tourism destination. This press release is issued on behalf of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) by Communicate Gulf FZE, SRTI Park, Sharjah, UAE. For media queries, please contact PR Consultant Anthony D'Silva Email: anthony@
Zawya
3 hours ago
- Zawya
Smiles and Etihad Guest partnership takes off, offering better rewards across both loyalty programmes
Abu Dhabi – Smiles, e& UAE's everyday rewards Super App that also houses its loyalty programme, has launched a partnership with Etihad Guest, the loyalty programme of Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates. Now offering customers of both programmes a fully integrated experience through the Rewards Exchange on the Smiles app, and soon via the Etihad website and mobile app. Customers can now link their loyalty accounts to transfer between the programmes and instantly convert Smiles points to Etihad Guest Miles and vice versa. Unlocking greater flexibility, enhanced rewards earning potential, and more ways to spend points and miles across both programmes. Masood Mohamed Sharif, Chief Executive Officer, e& UAE, said: 'This collaboration brings together two of the UAE's most trusted homegrown brands to deliver even more value to our loyal customers. By enabling seamless Smiles points and Etihad Guest Miles exchange, we're not only growing the rewards ecosystem but also making benefits more accessible. It reflects our focus on creating smarter, more connected experiences that meet the evolving expectations of our customers.' Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer Etihad Airways, said, 'This partnership showcases our commitment to delivering extraordinary customer service for our guests, offering enhanced redemption flexibility and membership benefits. We are delighted to be collaborating as two of the UAE's most successful and international, Emirati brands, offering our loyal Etihad Guest members greater options to collect and redeem Miles, through this collaboration with e&.' This partnership allows loyalty members of both brands to maximise the value of their rewards. Via the Smiles App, Etihad Guest members can now transfer their Etihad Guest Miles to Smiles Points and enjoy access to over 55 lifestyle services on the Smiles app, including food and grocery delivery, home services, e& bill payment and recharge, as well as exclusive deals across shopping, dining, entertainment and more. In turn, Smiles customers can transfer their points into Etihad Guest Miles to increase their balance and redeem their miles on flights across the airline's expanding network, upgrades, worldwide hotel stays and holidays, and shop from a huge range of products at the Etihad Guest Reward Shop. To initiate the exchange, customers of both programmes must link their accounts through the 'Rewards Exchange' section on the Smiles app and will be able to instantly transfer their loyalty currencies from one programme to the other. This strategic collaboration between two of the UAE's most prominent homegrown brands offers existing loyal customers more ways to benefit—and invites new customers to explore the best of both worlds: everyday lifestyle rewards through Smiles, and extraordinary travel experiences through Etihad Guest. The integration is available exclusively through the Smiles app now, with the opportunity for members to transfer via the Etihad website and newly launched mobile app in the near future. Smiles and Etihad Guest Partnership Takes Off, Offering Better Rewards Across Both Loyalty Programmes Contact: e& Media Office Shilpa Villait: svillait@ Nancy Sudheer: nsudheer@ Amer Obaid: amerobaid@ Noha Serageldin: nserageldin@ Grace Eid: Eid: geid@ mediaoffice@
