Peak of bravery: Dubai Civil Defence firefighters set Guinness World Record on Mount Toubkal

Dubai: A team of Dubai Civil Defence firefighters has made history after climbing Mount Toubkal — the highest peak in the Arab world and North Africa — while wearing full firefighting gear, securing a new Guinness World Record during the UAE’s 54th National Day celebrations.

The nine-member team completed the 4,167-metre ascent in 10 hours and 19 minutes, breaking the previous global record of 18 hours. Their full firefighting suits weighed more than 15kg, making the achievement the first of its kind worldwide.

The mission unfolded under severe weather conditions, including temperatures dropping to –12°C, strong winds exceeding 35km/h, and treacherous snowy terrain. Despite this, the team maintained a steady pace, demonstrating exceptional endurance, discipline, and teamwork.

The record-setting team included:

• First Lt. Omran Abdulrahman Ahli

• First Lt. Mayed Mohammed Al Muhairi

• First Lt. Issa Abdulrahman Al Mutaiwi

• Warrant Officer Saud Ahmed Al Shehi

• First Sergeant Hareez Ali Mohammed

• First Sergeant Mayed Mohammed Darwish

• First Sergeant Omar Jumaa Al Salfa

• Corporal First Class Saeed Mohammed Darwish

• Corporal First Class Yousef Ahmed Al Jasmi

A gift to the UAE

Expert Major General Rashid Thani Al Matroushi, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Civil Defence, dedicated the achievement to the UAE’s leadership and its people.

“This accomplishment is recorded in the name of our nation,” he said. “It reflects Civil Defence’s commitment to enhancing the readiness of our personnel under all types of field and weather conditions, and to strengthening their fitness and resilience in the face of demanding tasks. Our team has once again proven its ability to represent the UAE with honour on the global stage.”

Major Genera Al Matroushi added that the milestone embodies the spirit of challenge and excellence encouraged by the UAE’s wise leadership, positioning Dubai Civil Defence as a global symbol of professionalism and capability.

Supported by du

The initiative was fully sponsored by du, the integrated telecommunications provider, as part of its ongoing support for national achievements and community-driven initiatives across the UAE.