The United Arab Emirates once again demonstrated its strong sense of national pride with a remarkable achievement in the French Alps. Under the initiative called Our Flag at the Summit, the UAE national flag and portraits of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum were raised high at an Alpine peak. This symbolic gesture represented the powerful spirit, unity, and resilience of the Emirati people.
The event unfolded in the beautiful Valtrans region of the Alps, where snow-covered mountains created a striking contrast to the UAE’s desert landscape. The initiative’s theme, From Desert Dunes to Snowy Peaks, highlighted the extraordinary journey of Emiratis, who continue to excel in diverse fields and environments. This year’s event was especially meaningful as it coincided with Eid Al Etihad, adding a cultural and emotional significance to the expedition.
The initiative brought together Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Dubai Media Office, and the UAE Skiers Academy for their first-ever collaboration. Their partnership marked a new chapter in this long-running patriotic tradition. For more than a decade, the UAE Skiers Academy has been raising the UAE flag on international peaks, but this Alpine expedition stood out due to its scale, message, and global impact.
A Tribute to National Leaders and Emirati Heritage
The event was organized in conjunction with the Zayed and Rashid campaign, which honors the values, leadership, and legacy of two of the UAE’s most influential founding figures. The campaign was launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. Displaying the portraits of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid at the summit symbolized gratitude for their vision and the strong foundation they built for the nation.
Our Flag at the Summit, initiated 14 years ago, continues to fuel patriotism among young Emiratis by encouraging them to challenge themselves both physically and mentally. Over the years, the UAE flag has reached several peaks around the world, making this initiative one of the most respected national projects led by youth. This year was particularly symbolic because, for the first time, the initiative partnered with a government entity, emphasizing its growing importance and national reach.
As the country celebrates the Year of the Community and prepares for the upcoming Year of the Family, the expedition beautifully reflected these themes. The team included a father and his sons, representing values of unity, family bonding, and shared national commitment. Their participation highlighted how Emirati families continue to inspire one another to serve the nation proudly.
Training, Preparation, and the Journey to the Alps
The expedition required an immense amount of preparation and training. The team was handpicked to represent the diversity and strength of the Emirati community. They underwent rigorous training to adapt to the harsh Alpine conditions, which demanded strong endurance, skill, and mental focus.
Their journey began in Dubai, from where they boarded a long-haul flight to Geneva. The mission then continued with a road trip of more than 200 kilometers to the Valtrans resort. The drive included navigating through winding mountain roads, steep inclines, and the cold Alpine air, which was a stark contrast to the warm climate of the UAE.
Once they arrived at the base, the team faced temperatures between minus three and minus nine degrees Celsius. These conditions required layers of protective gear, advanced skiing skills, and careful planning. Their training over the past months helped them handle challenges such as icy terrain, heavy winds, and steep slopes.
The team consisted of ten highly skilled Emirati skiers who had trained specifically to handle dangerous descents and high-altitude conditions. Their expertise played a crucial role in ensuring a safe and successful climb to the summit. The team carried the UAE flag and a large three-by-one-metre portrait of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, which were secured tightly to withstand the strong winds at the peak.
After hours of climbing, navigating icy paths, and overcoming physical strain, the expedition finally reached the summit, located more than 3,300 meters above sea level. The moment they unfurled the UAE flag and raised the portrait was filled with pride, emotion, and gratitude. It captured the spirit of the nation in a single powerful moment.
Voices from the Expedition
Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, expressed her admiration for the initiative. She explained that Our Flag at the Summit represents the UAE’s belief in excellence and its continued efforts to showcase the ability of its youth. According to her, the expedition reflects the message the UAE wants the world to see: a nation built on ambition, determination, and unity.
Ibrahim Khadem, Co-founder of the UAE Skiers Academy, praised the team and highlighted the significance of their achievement. He noted that the participation of ten skilled Emirati athletes made this expedition one of the most impressive in the initiative’s history. He also emphasized that the mission aligned beautifully with the celebrations of Eid Al Etihad, as it reflected the leadership, courage, and commitment of the youth.
Khadem added that the expedition showed the world how dedicated young Emiratis are to raising the UAE’s flag on global platforms and preserving the values of their nation.
Inspiring a New Generation of Emiratis
The Our Flag at the Summit initiative has always been more than a sporting activity. It serves as a powerful educational and motivational platform that inspires young Emiratis to embrace new challenges, pursue personal growth, and represent their country with pride. Over the years, the UAE flag has been raised on several prominent mountain peaks, from snowy summits to rugged cliffs, symbolizing the nation’s resilience and ambition.
This year’s expedition also required careful planning and logistics. The total journey covered more than 5,000 kilometers, including the long flight at high altitude and the road travel through the mountains. The team had to adjust quickly to freezing temperatures and high-altitude conditions, which demanded a combination of strength, patience, and teamwork.
When the flag was raised at the summit, the team gathered to sing the UAE national anthem. The cold air echoed with their voices, marking a moment filled with pride and unity. Photographs taken at the peak captured the emotion and dedication behind the achievement, creating a memory that will inspire future generations.
A Message of National Strength and Unity
The raising of the UAE flag high above the French Alps sent a powerful message to the world. It showed that national pride cannot be restricted by geography, climate, or boundaries. Whether in the desert or on snowy mountains, the UAE continues to shine through the achievements of its people.
The Our Flag at the Summit initiative demonstrates the nation’s belief in its youth and its commitment to showcasing its heritage on global stages. Each summit climbed becomes a symbol of the UAE’s progress, ambition, and unity. It reflects the dreams of a nation that encourages its people to reach higher, dream bigger, and represent their identity with confidence.
The Alpine expedition will be remembered as a moment of national pride that strengthened the UAE’s global presence while honoring the legacy of its founding leaders. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved through preparation, courage, and love for the homeland.
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