Abu Dhabi: Around 400 people from the UAE and other Gulf countries will trek 15km into Al Khatim desert in Abu Dhabi on Friday to raise awareness on wildlife.
The Caracal Challenge — named after the UAE’s desert wildcat — will give the participants an opportunity to test their endurance and experience, a spokesperson of the organisers, Emirate Wildlife Society and World Wildlife Fund (EWS-WWF), told Gulf News on Wednesday.
“They will navigate the vast and breathtaking desert landscape at night and learn about the UAE’s natural environment from experienced guides,” said Laila Abdul Latif, deputy director-general of EWS-WWF.
Camping has already reached full capacity, she said, but a few spots are available for trekking and nature enthusiasts who can register for the trek on www.husaak.com/tcc. The participants do not need previous trekking experience but basic fitness level is enough. “We have clearly marked exit points at 2.5km, 7km, and 10km and 15km, so the event caters to all fitness levels. It is truly a unique opportunity to experience Al Khatim desert by foot,” Abdul Latif said.
The event is hosted by Husaak Adventures in partnership with Environment Agency — Abu Dhabi (EAD), Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, sponsored by Khidmah and Adventure HQ.
The participants include a good mix of people from all over the GCC. “Many families and adventures are travelling from Oman and Saudi Arabia for the excursion. Local families are also taking part. It’s going to be a fun day out and rewarding as all net funds go towards an important cause,” Abdul Latif said.
Approved by the Ministry of Community Development, the initiative will raise funds for Emirates Wildlife Society-WWF (EWS-WWF), to support the organisation’s Terrestrial Conservation Programme, focusing on protecting land-based species and interconnected environments across the UAE and Gulf region.
Around 30 experienced guides from across the GCC region will guide the participants through the challenge. All guides have vast experience in organising such expeditions in various countries and landscapes and most of them are bi-lingual, she said.
In addition to their adventure experience, they have been trained by the terrestrial teams of Environment Agency — Abu Dhabi and Emirates Wildlife Society — WWF, she said.
All participants are given guide sheets at the beginning of the challenge that clearly state they need to carry all their trash with them until the end of the challenge. “Nothing can be left behind. In addition, the organisers will do a clean-up round afterwards to make sure nothing is left behind in the desert. Our strategic partner, Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi, has approved the location for the event and confirmed that the track does not cross any protected or sensitive areas,” Abdul Latif said.
How to register
Simply visit the website www.husaak.com/tcc
Day Package — Dh800, includes transportation both ways, welcome pack and dinner.
Families and groups of 4+ get a 10 per cent discount.
