You, the endless desert, a camel (yes, your camel), and a 1,000km trek that’s basically a crash course in Emirati heritage. Sounds like a scene from an epic desert movie, right? Well, it’s about to get real because Emirates Foundation has officially opened registration for Misrah — the national initiative that’s part heritage lesson, part fitness challenge, and 100% unforgettable.
Launching on 21 August 2025, Misrah is on a mission to create a new generation of youth who are as proud of their roots as they are ready for adventure. Whether you’re a UAE citizen or a resident (ages 18–25), this is your golden ticket to trade Netflix for sand dunes, and Wi-Fi for camel saddles.
What Exactly is Misrah?
Think of Misrah as the ultimate cultural bootcamp. It’s brought to life by Active Abu Dhabi with a dream team of partners, including the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and it promises an experience that’s equal parts educational, physical, and Instagram-worthy.
First, 500 hopeful adventurers will be selected for a training phase in Abu Dhabi, where you’ll swap your sneakers for stirrups and learn:
- Camel 101: Meet your new furry co-pilot, learn camel anatomy (head, hump, and the very important withers), and even master the art of saddle setup with traditional tools like batan, zuwar, hasra, and saqa’a.
- Folk Arts & Vibes: Dive into traditional performances like Al Ayala, Al Harbiya, and Al Taghrooda, and discover San’a al-dhiyafa, the ancient Emirati art of making guests feel like royalty.
- Campfire Stories & Coffee: Because what’s a desert adventure without Shabah Al Daw (classic campfire hangouts), freshly brewed Emirati coffee, and folktales that give Netflix dramas a run for their money?
Sessions are cozy and hands-on, with just 60 participants per day, four days a week, from 4 PM to 8 PM — perfect for catching that golden desert sunset while bonding with your squad.
From Training to Trekking
After the training wraps up on 19 October, only 100 participants will earn their spot in the grand finale: a 1,000km heritage trek across the UAE desert. That’s right — 1,000km powered by grit, heritage, and camels (probably a few sand selfies, too).
The trek isn’t just about endurance; it’s a full-on cultural immersion. You’ll move between learning stations like The Coffee House, Folk Arts Workshops, and Camel Pastures, making sure every participant leaves not just with stronger legs but a deeper connection to the soul of the UAE.
Why You Should Sign Up (Like, Now)
Aside from the bragging rights of saying “I rode a camel 1,000km across the desert,” Misrah is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to:
- Build character and grit (goodbye, comfort zone)
- Learn authentic Emirati heritage straight from the experts
- Join a community of 100 adventurers who are equally brave, slightly sunburned, and forever bonded by the desert
As Mansour Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Active Abu Dhabi, puts it:
“Misrah is a milestone for empowering youth and reconnecting them with the nation’s identity. This journey blends physical challenge with deep-rooted Emirati pride.”
So, are you ready to swap your sneakers for sand and your playlists for poetry under the stars? Registration is officially open — and the desert is calling.
