Ahmed Al Mansouri’s passion for hiking is not just a hobby; it’s a mission to showcase the UAE’s breathtaking natural landscapes and promote tourism. By organizing free hiking trips, he aims to make outdoor adventures accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level or nationality. His excursions often include team camping and night hikes, allowing participants to experience the outdoors differently, such as observing nocturnal wildlife. Al Mansouri’s discoveries include mountains with diverse terrains, unique rock formations, and year-round springs known locally as Mawrid. Fossilized seashells on mountain peaks reveal the region’s ancient past, while valleys like Wadi Arar in Ras Al Khaimah and Al-Abadilah in Fujairah feature flowing streams, enhancing the natural beauty of the trails.
Al Mansouri’s love for the mountains began at a young age, with his father taking him on trips every Friday during the winter season. As he grew older, his adventures became more daring, such as uncovering the source of a mysterious sound in a cave, which turned out to be an owl. Before the 2000s, Al Mansouri started hiking with friends and later established a hiking group, which he rebranded as Adventure with Nature in 2021. The group goes out regularly, every Saturday, with planned routes and registered participants.
Beyond hiking, Al Mansouri is an advocate for environmental conservation through his initiative, Plant, Preserve, and Explore. This began as a personal habit of cleaning up litter during hikes and evolved into a community-wide cleanup initiative. Partnering with Mohammed Al Qubaisi, they aim to promote environmental conservation, ensure clean tourist sites, and showcase the UAE as a clean and beautiful destination. Over the past three years, the campaign has grown significantly, drawing participation from both residents and locals.
Al Mansouri organizes various hiking trips catering to different skill levels, from beginner-friendly trails to more challenging routes for experienced hikers. His future plans include establishing tracks in all of the emirates, organizing trips for government department employees, and creating a safe route for people of determination. Additionally, he plans a three-day mountain trip with an overnight stay, further enhancing the UAE’s appeal as a hiking destination.
Through his efforts, Al Mansouri not only promotes tourism but also fosters a sense of community and environmental responsibility among participants. His dedication to showcasing the UAE’s natural beauty and his commitment to conservation make him a significant figure in promoting sustainable tourism practices in the region.
