Seventeen-year-old Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi has become the youngest Emirati to summit Mount Elbrus in Russia, the highest peak in Europe at 5,642 metres, marking a new milestone in the UAE’s mountaineering history.
This achievement is part of her pursuit of the ambitious “Seven Summits” challenge. Last year, she conquered Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain, and now has her sights set on the remaining peaks, solidifying her position as a rising star in global adventure.
Supported by Finance House, a UAE organisation championing youth empowerment, Al Awadhi battled extreme weather and rugged terrain to raise the UAE flag at Elbrus’s summit. Her climb sends a powerful message of hope and female empowerment across the Arab world.
“Reaching this summit was only possible because of the unwavering support of our leadership,” she said, dedicating her accomplishment to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. As she explained, “I dedicate this achievement to those who taught us that nothing is beyond our reach.”
Al Awadhi also dedicated her success to her family. She said, “To my mother, Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi, you are my anchor and my strength. And to my late father, Abdulrahman Al Awadhi, your guidance taught me to aim for the skies with steady steps.”
A passionate advocate for nature and community, Al Awadhi plans to launch humanitarian and environmental initiatives aimed at supporting underprivileged communities. “It is a message that Emirati and Arab youth, especially young women, are capable of leading, exploring and making a meaningful impact,” she emphasized.
