From addiction to altitude: Emirati overcomes addiction, raises UAE flag on Kilimanjaro

Dubai: A young Emirati man, once trapped in the grip of drug addiction, has reached the summit of Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, raising the UAE flag in a moment filled with triumph and hope.

The six-day climb, organised by Dubai’s Erada Centre for Treatment and Rehabilitation, was more than just a physical challenge. For the 28-year-old, it symbolised a powerful personal journey—from pain to healing.

“This wasn’t just about reaching the top of a mountain,” he said. “It was about climbing out of the darkest place in my life. With every step, I was remembering where I came from. I didn’t stop because I wanted to prove—to myself and to others—that recovery is real. Falling down doesn’t mean the end.”

The man spent seven months at the Erada Centre, overcoming years of drug addiction. In preparation for the climb, he trained in the UAE’s mountain ranges and underwent necessary health checks and vaccinations.

He then traveled with the Erada team from Dubai to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and onward to Tanzania, where the 5,895-meter Mount Kilimanjaro awaited—a test of endurance, thin air, and steep slopes.

“There were moments I could barely breathe,” he said. “But standing at the top, waving my country’s flag, was a message to everyone struggling with addiction: you are not alone. Help is out there—if you’re ready to take the first step.”

He expressed deep gratitude to the Erada Centre for guiding him toward a new life.

“The first and hardest part is admitting you need help. Don’t be ashamed. Don’t give up. You deserve a second chance—and a better life. I wouldn’t have made it without Erada.” 

Dr. Abdullah Al Ansari, the centre’s Director of Social Support and Awareness, accompanied the climber along with another team member.

“It took us six days to reach the summit,” said Dr. Al Ansari. “He wasn’t very fit when we started, but he worked incredibly hard. He lost around six kilograms on this trip—and gained so much more in confidence and pride.”

Dr. Al Ansari said the goal was to send a powerful message that recovery is possible, and that with determination, individuals can rebuild their lives.

“We want to show that Dubai can use meaningful activities like this to raise awareness and encourage others to support those battling addiction.” 

Abdulrazaq Ameri, CEO of the Erada Centre, said the story is part of a broader mission to inspire and support real change.

“Recovery doesn’t end with treatment—it’s the beginning of a new chapter,” said Ameri. “Initiatives like this one help people feel proud of themselves again. It shows the community that change is possible, and that support truly matters.”

The Erada Centre plans to continue launching unique programs to help former addicts reintegrate into society with strength, resilience, and purpose.