Dubai: Jalal Bin Thaneya’s father is confident that his 27-year-old son, who begins a 5,000km cycling trip across the Gulf countries today, has prepared well for the challenge.
Jalal Bin Thaneya begins his trip from Muscat. He aims to raise awareness about Dubai’s Al Jalila Foundation, which is organising a support initiative for children with special needs.
His father, Jamal Bin Thaneya, said: “I’ve faith in Jalal’s planning. He’s very good in his research and preparations.”
This is not the first time the Dubai resident has undertaken challenges.
Bin Thaneya has walked 2,000km from Abu Dhabi to Makkah, covered all seven emirates on foot, climbed the stairs of 100 Dubai skyscrapers, and walked the desolate Empty Quarter desert.
His previous feats were also meant to draw attention to issues facing children with special needs, such as greater inclusion in regular schools.
Arduous path
Bin Thaneya now hopes to cycle from Muscat in Oman through UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait to finish in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The gruelling trip will cover all six capitals of the GCC countries.
“Jalal is passionate about helping others, he wants to do things that will raise awareness. Jalal’s always talking about issues in social settings, with family and friends. But he is also always ready to get out of the comfort zone and take up challenges,” Jamal said.
“With this cycling initiative, my main concern was safety because he is going where it is extremely quiet. He is camping and sleeping on the side of the road.”
Bin Thaneya will be accompanied by a navigator and spotter, who will tail him in a four-wheel drive with safety lights. They will have mobile phones and other devices with satellite internet and navigation services.
“My son loves the UAE and its leadership. He wants to show what UAE nationals are capable of. We’re all very proud of his previous achievements and we wish him success in this initiative as well,” Jamal said.
