Starting from Liwa’s Empty Quarter in Abu Dhabi, the group paved their way through Al Ain and then finally arriving to Dubai.

After an intense and rough journey across the deserts of the UAE, a group of 29 camel trekkers finally arrived at the Expo 2020 Dubai amidst the chant of “Ahlan, Ahlan... Welcome...” as the crowd welcomed the group at the gate.

The group of adventurers on camels braved the desert heat and ended their 13-day voyage, standing testament to teamwork and stamina. Donning traditional Bedouin outfits, the adventurers remained in high spirits despite an exhausting 640km expedition.

Organised by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre, the eighth edition of the camel trek saw a total of 29 participants from 17 nations, including Spain, South Korea, Germany, the UK, USA, South Africa, and France.

Starting from Liwa’s Empty Quarter in Abu Dhabi, the group paved their way through Al Ain and then finally arrived in Dubai. Following the prepared route, the camel trekkers rested at camping stations in the middle of the desert as well.

The group, on Monday, also received a surprise visit on their penultimate day from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, as he stopped by to congratulate them and waved them onward.

The annual trek which is open to people above 18 invites explorers on a unique journey across the sands that gives them an understanding of the survival skills of the Bedouin during a challenging desert voyage.

Amongst 300 people, only 29 participants were shortlisted to be registered for the intensive camel riding training programme organised by the centre.

Demonstration of a high level of resilience, stamina and fitness, the trek was initially an opportunity for Emiratis to retrace their roots. However, later on, it became popular among expats who wish to experience the true Bedouin life.