The Emirates Foundation, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, has officially opened registration for Misrah — a transformative UAE Heritage Trek designed to empower youth through an immersive journey into Emirati traditions. Set to begin on 21 August 2025, this national initiative invites UAE citizens and residents aged 18 to 25 to apply for a chance to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime cultural and physical challenge.
A Desert Journey of 1,000km
At the heart of Misrah lies a 1,000km trek across the UAE desert, using traditional camel transport. Participants will not only test their endurance but also connect deeply with Emirati history, culture, and craftsmanship. The trek reflects a centuries-old way of life, offering a rare opportunity to experience the UAE’s landscapes and traditions in their most authentic form.
Empowering the Next Generation
The Misrah Initiative is more than a physical expedition — it’s a national youth development program. The first phase will see 500 young men and women undergo intensive training in Abu Dhabi, where they will learn camel riding, Emirati folk arts, and traditional crafts under the guidance of heritage experts. From this group, 100 will be selected to take part in the full desert trek.
Cultural Immersion Through Hands-On Learning
Participants will engage with the authentic details of Emirati heritage, from assembling camel saddles with tools like batan and zuwar, to preparing Emirati coffee over a campfire during Shabah Al Daw. Workshops will cover traditional performances such as Al Ayala, Al Harbiya, Al Taghrooda, and Shallat Al Boush, while oral storytelling sessions will preserve the UAE’s rich folklore for future generations.
Three Core Learning Stations
Training is divided into three key cultural stations: The Coffee House, Folk Arts Workshops, and Camel Pastures. Each group of 20 participants will rotate through these stations, gaining balanced exposure to heritage skills, hospitality traditions, and animal care — ensuring both cultural understanding and practical ability.
A Nationwide Collaboration
The program is supported by major partners including the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Mubadala Investment Company, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, and Abu Dhabi Police, alongside leading academic institutions. This collaborative effort underlines the importance of heritage preservation as a pillar of UAE identity.
Mansour Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Active Abu Dhabi, describes Misrah as “a unique cultural journey blending physical challenge with deep-rooted Emirati pride.”
How to Join the Misrah Heritage Trek
Youth eager to take part in this unforgettable UAE heritage adventure can apply via the official website: www.activeabudhabi.com/misrah. Applications are open to both Emiratis and residents, making this a truly inclusive celebration of UAE culture.
