Fatima Al Awadhi becomes youngest Emirati to summit Europe's highest peak

Seventeen-year-old Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi has become the youngest Emirati to summit Europe’s highest peak, raising the UAE flag atop Mount Elbrus in Russia.

Al Awadhi braved extreme weather and difficult terrain to climb 5,642 metres. 

She dedicated her achievement to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation" for their enduring support for Emirati youth and women.

"Reaching this summit was only possible because of the unwavering support of our leadership,” Al Awadhi said. “I dedicate this achievement to those who taught us that nothing is beyond our reach."

It marks the latest step in her pursuit of the Seven Summits, after successfully climbing Mount Kilimanjaro earlier this year.

She stressed that her mission is "a message that Emirati and Arab youth, especially young women, are capable of leading, exploring and making a meaningful impact".

Supported by UAE-based Finance House, Al Awadhi also expressed deep gratitude to her family for their support.