Who Is Fatima Al Awadhi, the 17-year-old UAE teen on a mission to conquer world's tallest peaks?

Time of India

11-07-2025

Fatima Al Awadhi raises the UAE flag atop Mount Elbrus after her record-setting climb / Image Credits: WAM
TL;DR
At just 17, Fatima Al Awadhi became the youngest Emirati to climb
Mount Elbrus
.
This is part of her plan to finish the
Seven Summits challenge
, which means climbing the tallest mountain on every continent.
Fatima hopes her journey will encourage young Emiratis, especially girls.
Fatima Al Awadhi, the youngest Emirati climber to reach the summit of Mount Elbrus, has set a new milestone for youth in the UAE. Fatima's achievement reflects the UAE's strong focus on youth development and empowerment, supported by national programs like the National Youth Agenda 2031.
Backed by Finance House, a UAE company dedicated to supporting young people, Fatima's climb is not only a personal triumph but a symbol of the growing opportunities for Emirati youth, especially young women, to lead, explore, and inspire.
Who is Fatima?
Fatima is a 17-year-old Emirati mountaineer. Last year, she climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest mountain. Now, she has added Mount Elbrus in Russia to her list. This mountain is the highest point in Europe at
5,642 meters
.
Her goal is to finish the Seven Summits challenge, which means climbing the highest peak on each continent. Fatima's climbs show her focus and determination. Fatima dedicated her success to the UAE's leaders. She credits them for their strong support of youth and women. She also honored her family for her success and support provided.
Her Previous Achievement: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
Before Mount Elbrus, Fatima reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
This mountain is famous for being the tallest in Africa and a common goal for mountaineers. Completing Kilimanjaro was a major step toward her bigger dream of finishing the Seven Summits challenge( to climb the highest mountain on each continent). It also gave her the experience and confidence needed for tougher climbs ahead.
Fatima has completed two of these so far.
How Finance House Supported Fatima
Fatima's climb was backed by Finance House, a UAE company known for supporting youth empowerment.
They helped with training, equipment, and planning, making sure she was ready for the risks of high-altitude mountaineering. This support shows the growing role of UAE organizations in helping young people chase big goals safely and successfully.
How the UAE Supports Youth Development
The UAE puts a strong focus on helping its young people grow and succeed. Here's how:
Education and Training:
The UAE offers free, quality education guaranteed by its Constitution. Vocational training and youth centers help young people build skills for the future.
Job Opportunities:
Youth unemployment in the UAE is about 9.89%, much lower than the regional average. This shows how the government creates real chances for young people to work and build careers.
Youth Participation:
The UAE encourages young people to take part in government and decision-making. The country appointed its first Minister of State for Youth Affairs at 22 years old. Youth also make up a significant share of the Federal National Council and participate in Youth Councils.
National Initiatives:
Programs like the National Youth Strategy and Youth Circles involve thousands of young people, giving them a voice and helping them develop leadership skills.
The National Youth Agenda 2031: Planning for Future
The UAE's National Youth Agenda 2031 aims to help Emirati youth become leaders and contributors to the country and the world. It focuses on:
Economic Growth:
Helping youth contribute to the UAE's economy.
Community Values:
Encouraging young people to be active members of society, respecting Emirati values.
Global Leadership:
Supporting youth to make a positive impact worldwide.
Technology and Skills:
Ensuring young people master new technologies and future skills.
Health and Well-being:
Promoting good health and a high quality of life for youth.
The agenda also sets goals like increasing youth participation in global forums, providing career pathways, boosting education and vocational qualifications, and fostering pride in Emirati identity.
A Message for Young Emiratis and Women
Fatima wants her climb to inspire young people around the world. She believes hard work and determination can turn dreams into reality. She also plans to start projects that help communities and protect the environment. Her story is more than a personal success, it's a call to youth everywhere to be brave and aim high.
FAQs
Q: How old is Fatima Al Awadhi?
A: She is 17 years old.
Q: What mountains has Fatima climbed?
A: Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Elbrus.
Q: What is the Seven Summits challenge?
A: Climbing the highest peak on each continent.