Dubai: Embodying the nation's remarkable journey and aspirations, the UAE flag and images of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum were unfurled in the French Alps. This was achieved through the 'Our Flag at the Summit' initiative, symbolizing the Emirati people's determination to reach the pinnacle in every field. The act took place on an Alpine peak in the Valtrans region, coinciding with the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative, bearing the slogan 'From Desert Dunes to Snowy Peaks,' is a collaboration between Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, and the UAE Skiers Academy. It runs in conjunction with the 'Zayed and Rashid' campaign, initiated last year under the directive of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.
The UAE Skiers Academy launched the 'Our Flag at the Summit' initiative 14 years ago, and this instance marks its first partnership with a government entity. The collaboration with Brand Dubai aims to highlight the 'Year of the Community' in the UAE, soon to be followed by the 'Year of the Family.' The expedition notably included a father and his sons, reflecting Emirati values of unity and community cohesion.
The expedition team, reflecting the diversity of Emirati society, traveled from Dubai to Geneva before heading to the Valtrans resort in the French Alps. They underwent intensive training for the summit ascent, culminating in the raising of the UAE flag and a 3x1-metre portrait of Zayed and Rashid. Comprising 10 skilled skiers, the team was trained to handle the challenging terrain and weather at higher altitudes. Their successful summit ascent and act of raising the UAE flag and the portraits emphasized national pride.
Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, noted that the initiative embodies the spirit of the UAE, highlighting a nation striving for excellence and the ability of its youth to achieve aspirations. Ibrahim Khadem, Co-founder of the UAE Skiers Academy, expressed pride in the team's journey coinciding with Eid Al Etihad, highlighting the dedication of Emirati youth to their nation's ideals.
The expedition's geographical and logistical details underline the extensive preparation involved. The team traveled over 5,000 kilometers from Dubai to the Valtourance resort in the French Alps. This journey included a 10-hour flight and a 220-kilometer road journey from Geneva Airport, navigating mountain roads to reach the summit over 3,300 meters above sea level, where the UAE flag and portraits were unfurled in temperatures ranging from -3 to -9 degrees Celsius.