UAE residents trek to Nepal to raise funds for Palestinian children

A group of five raised Dh73,500 to provide sports programmes and facilities for Gaza children.

The group of Arab expatriates reach Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal after their nine-day fundraising trek. Courtesy Amr Al Masri

DUBAI // Five UAE residents raised Dh73,500 to provide sports programmes and facilities for children in Gaza.

The group trekked in Nepal, walking up to eight hours a day and about 10 kilometres at a stretch to reach their goal.

“Our nine-day trek to the Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal was one of the most fulfilling and enriching achievements we have experienced to date,” said Deema Khoury, a 26-year-old Palestinian. “Not only were we embarking on an extraordinary adventure, but we were doing it for a great cause that made the experience that much more meaningful. A cause that became the drive to continue during the challenging times.”

The group’s day-to-day routine started with climbing at 5am.

“After packing and setting up our gear for a new day, we would fuel up on essential nutrients at breakfast – ranging from boiled eggs, porridge and pancakes to local items such as chappati and gurung bread,” said Amr Al Masri, a 29-year-old Jordanian. “A carb-based meal was a must to provide the right energy needed for the long walks. Every day was taken as a mission to get from point A to B, where the journey was one where we were completely disconnected from everything and just focused on embracing the present.”

“The lunch stop was the main, big break where we would have a nutritious local dish called dal bhat,” said Lebanese Zeina Maktabi, 30.

“It includes lentils, curry and rice, for proper replenishment, with a side of garlic soup, which is said to open up the arteries to get blood flowing in preparation for the high altitude.”

From valleys to snowy mountain peaks and cascading waterfalls, the trek was not only a means to raise money for the Palestinian Association for Children’s Encouragement of Sports, Gaza appeal but it became a personal challenge.

After seven to eight hours of walking each day, the group would spend their nights in sleeping bags.

“When the physical challenge of each day ended, we were rewarded with stunning sunsets that would keep our spirits at a high and excited for the next day to come,” said Palestinian Leila Khatib, 27. “And of course, having a well-deserved supper where you could really eat anything blindly and fully enjoy it.”

After the sixth day of climbing, they reached the base camp.

“It was an amazing view to see the signboard welcoming trekkers to the finish line and the clouds covering the mountain peaks,” said Tarek Saidi, a 28-year-old Lebanese. “We were surrounded by the seven peaks of the Annapurna range. It was an unforgettable sight.”

The group used the natural hot springs to heal aching muscles on the last day of their descent.

“While the whole experience had some challenges, it really brought about life lessons and reflections in each of us,” said Mr Saidi.

“The experience made us realise we should always remember that it’s the simple things in life that are the most extraordinary, and that even a small contribution can make a difference in bettering the lives of others.”

The trip raised funds to make sports programmes more accessible to Palestinian children.

“The turmoil in the region and in Gaza this year means that now, more than ever, children are being affected,” he said.

“Our next mission will also be a trek and the cause will be directed to either health or a natural disaster.”