While I was climbing up, I would not stop thinking about my way down to the ground. Almost nine meters have passed and yet to reach the peak – a stunning spot for a picture.
National day is a celebration day in the UAE for everyone and a time to gather with loved ones. My friends and I decided to roam around Wadi Saham and hike mountains. Located in Fujairah, it is indeed a place for adventurous people and some of the best sights the Emirate has to offer.
Upon having had a heavy meal and some refreshments, a couple of hours later, it was time for a quick check-up. Power banks? Check. Cameras and drones? Check. Snacks and refreshments? Check. And most importantly, adrenalin is fully ahead.
I have never been hiking before and this was my first time ever knowing that I would be in the middle of the mountain that I had just seen while driving. And surprisingly, I found a bunch of people who are into hiking. A friend of mine among us is a professional hiker, taking the lead, though his boots are friend with rocks. He said, “Be aware and cautious, and all together, be enjoyed and energetic – we are about to walk 16 kilometers.” And snapped.
Hiking at Wadi Saham mountains has two levels, the easy trail for newcomers, and the hard one for those who are up for an adrenalin rush. The thrill kicked in when we passed the first 10 minutes, and certainly with a blast song playing to keep us active and, on our feet, we selected the hard trail.
The moment we went downhill, I had already started stumbling. Nevertheless, we were extremely helpful and looked after each other all the way. There were plenty of newcomers among us. And it was encouraging to observe them push themselves and accomplish this adventure.
The view from/within the mountains was such immersing, and stress-relieving. We came across plenty of beautiful sights that I wouldn’t normally be able to capture it. The high mountains of varying shades of colors, yellow, red, orange, and brown.
First-hand, our hike seemed moderate, surrounded by sharp and loose rocks, boulders, and a mix of ascent and descent steeps. Of course, our cameras got numerous shots for Instagram. In addition, we were approaching by many folks, including professionals and amateurs, and families alike.
After half an hour, I felt like I wanted to assess my fear throughout climbing. I told my friend; I want to be up there and get me a perfect shot – like he had been waiting for it. “He smiled and took off his backpack, grabbed my hand and started acting like me,” he said. As a beginner hiker, I was aware that it’s natural to have some fears and reservations. However, I also have eagerness and determination. After given instructions and guidelines with respect to our body movements, and also about how to step up and be balanced, using my legs and arms properly.
While I was climbing up, I would not stop thinking about my way down to the ground. Almost 9 meters have passed and yet to reach the peak – a stunning spot for a picture. Our professional hiker kept saying, “Don’t think, just keep going whenever I paused, thinking about how I would climb down back? Interestingly, I found another friend of ours who followed me and climbed too.
It seemed risky at first, but by putting my heel first and then my toe, it worked. Coupled with the right instructions and techniques, the constant boost of confidence and support from all of us made the climb seem easier, even for a newbie.
Wadi Saham has expansive, breathtaking, and majestic highlands that are a must-visit. As we hike up towards the peak, our hearts beat faster, and we were able to see the entire surrounding areas. Standing at the top gave us a bird’s eye view of the most picturesque view along with cool, refreshing air.
Hiking activity aside, we kept talking and singing, and taking a break every once in a while, for a bite and pictures alike. Further, three hours later on, our physical abilities started to alert us, yet we knew it and were determined to continue.
Each one of us including me was fatigued but didn’t want to showcase it. We tended to present ourselves as strong – and we are. Reflecting on the hike into our actual life, nevertheless, was our last 10-minute discussion. Our scope with this experience has a rich reflection towards a lot of lessons in daily routine, which forces to a betterment attitude and thinking.
On a personal note, my next hiking would be including both KSA and UAE flags next September to celebrate my country’s Saudi National Day. Till then, if I was to give a piece of advice on hiking, then it would be never think just keep going – thanks to my friend.
Author & Credits
Mohammed Thamer Alsulimani is a Saudi Editor and Media Executive at THC for Public Relations & Communications, Dubai. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications from the University of Sharjah.
Rami Osama based in Fujairah, is a Social Media Producer and professional hiker. He is a member of the Fujairah Social & Cultural Association and works solely with the municipality to promote tourism and destinations. In addition to his current role as a Marketing Executive at Fujairah Adventure.
Contact: @ramy21_
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