Six expat 'boys' from Dubai on life-transforming Burj-to-Buckingham mission

The six men include Jaikishen Muralidhar (Jacky) Mordani, Devidas Murlidhar Mordani, Joshi Naishadhkumar Mukundrai, Doulat Gul Aswani, Manoj Gurmukhdas Takhtani and Lachman Gul Aswani.

Jacky Mordani said, “The inception of the extraordinary Burj to Buckingham project can be traced back to a casual conversation over tea that we had on January 27, 2020. As some of us friends gathered, a 15-second video clip began to play on one of our phones, showing individuals on an awe-inspiring car journey from India to the UK. We were intrigued by the possibilities of such a trip. The seed of our audacious idea was thus sown.”

The group said the sudden outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 threw their plans into disarray. Yet, their determination to go ahead with the project when the time was ready was undeterred.

“Fast forward to the present, with three years of thorough research and preparation, we geared up for an even bigger adventure. Two additional friends have joined the expedition, and we specially acquired a new 13-seater bus, and customised it to cater to our specific needs,” said Mordani. The vehicle boasts impressive features, including a three-tier racking system, an awning, an ensuite shower enclosure, and a state-of-the-art control panel, he claimed.

The group has already covered Iran and Turkey and will head towards Bulgaria, Serbia, Slovakia, Croatia, Italy, Switzerland, Andorra, Spain, Clasi, UK, Belgium, Germany Poland Hungary, Romania, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Greece. They said from camping outdoors and playing 'master chef' to exploring Cappadocia's balloon wonderland, they have been doing things they've longed to do for years.

The team, however, acknowledges there are challenges along the way.

They said they have conducted extensive research, including studying road maps, visa requirements, and travel regulations for the countries they will be passing through. They have also gathered knowledge by watching videos of other travelers and reading blogs, which has helped them understand the real challenges they might face along the way.

“We know potential weather conditions are a significant challenge during the journey. To mitigate this, we have invested in appropriate gear and equipment, ensuring we are well-prepared for varying climates and terrains. Thorough research on the regions we will traverse has helped us understand potential risks and take necessary precautions,” said Mordani.

The team said adequate arrangements have also been made to manage their health conditions during the trip. “Two members have diabetes. Biut we are well-prepared to handle any health concerns that may arise during the journey,” they noted.

No better place than Dubai to live

Mordani said, “Carrying the flag of Dubai, we aim to project to the world that there is no better place than Dubai, a city of dreams and endless possibilities, where innovation meets luxury, and diversity thrives. Dubai is a vibrant oasis that captivates hearts with its towering skyline, cultural richness, and warm hospitality.”

The team said their motto is to live life to the fullest, cherish every moment, and let the road guide them. “Along the way, we aim to inspire others to follow their dreams, regardless of age,” one of them said.

“Our mission is to traverse borders, overcome challenges, and cherish the beauty of the world we live in. Burj to Buckingham is a celebration of the human spirit, a reminder that age is no barrier to seeking new adventures and forging lifelong connections,” he added.