In a powerful reflection of the UAE’s growing presence in global adventure sports and youth achievement, an Emirati mountaineer has etched her name into history by conquering one of the most remote and challenging peaks on Earth.

Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi reached the summit of Mount Vinson, the highest mountain in Antarctica, on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, marking a historic milestone for both the UAE and the Arab world. Standing at 4,892 metres, the mountain presented extreme difficulty, and Al Awadhi, aged just 18, became the youngest and first Arab to reach its summit. This achievement marks the third peak in her pursuit of the Seven Summits challenge, which involves climbing the highest mountain on each of the seven continents.

Al Awadhi dedicated her accomplishment to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and to H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF), in recognition of their continued support for Emirati youth and women.

The expedition, sponsored by UAE-based Palms Sports, took place in one of the harshest environments on the planet, characterized by temperatures dropping below -40 degrees Celsius, fierce winds, and extreme isolation, which demanded exceptional physical endurance and mental resilience.

Speaking about the experience, Al Awadhi said, “Mount Vinson is a huge step up compared to my previous summits. It is far colder and far more isolated, requiring a high level of self-reliance and mental strength. The expedition can last up to three weeks in extreme cold that reaches minus 40 degrees Celsius, surrounded by endless snow. At first, Vinson’s challenges frightened me, but once I stood at the summit and looked out over a sea of ice pierced by sharp peaks cutting through the horizon, I realised the mountain did not make me suffer — it made me much stronger. I know I will return to Antarctica one day; I am completely captivated by the vastness and beauty of this continent.”

She also expressed gratitude to the UAE’s leadership, saying, “Raising the UAE flag with pride on the world’s highest peaks represents 54 years of a nation built on opportunity and inspiration,” adding that national support played a vital role in her journey.