It’s no shocker admitting that the UAE heat can suck harder than a vacuum cleaner in turbo mode. Instead of furiously tweeting about it, the UAE’s female ancestors flung themselves into the desert looking for a solution. While the men in their tribe journeyed away for months on pearl diving trips, these women walked across the country seeking cooler climate. On a mission to recreate this ancient Emirati tradition, the Women’s Heritage Walk is back in its third year.
Badass reason #1
The women train for three whole months for this arduous journey. Some of them enter the initial stages of training with emotional and physical hurdles. By the end of it, the “sand sisters” part ways feeling stronger than ever in every possible way.
Badass reason #2
It’s no walk in the park – literally! These women have five days to walk across the UAE, from Al Ain to the capital of Abu Dhabi. Since the desert is an unpredictable mistress, the sand sisters have to slip into Bear Grylls mode and deal with whatever’s thrown in their face.
Badass reason #3
A perfect reflection of the UAE’s population, the Women’s Heritage Walk is a cocktail of Emirati women and expats. This cultural melting pot of a walking troop helps them not only further understand each other’s heritage but their own, all while marching across a desert.
Badass reason #4
Shout out to 2016 walker, Estelle, for sharing her story: “I had planned this walk carefully, both physically and mentally. I was looking forward to spending a lot of time with myself, reflecting on my past and planning for my future. From the first footprint I left in the sand, I got out of my head and into my heart. I thought less, I felt more. My heart became the captain of this beautiful adventure and I let my inner feelings and sensations be my guide. I lived in the present.”
Badass reason #5
This last one is your chance to be the badass that completes this article. Put your hands up for the Women’s Heritage Walk by showing your support at Umm Al Emarat Park in Abu Dhabi. After walking a butt-busting 123 kilometers in the desert, the women will be doing their final two kilometer stretch in the park. Then the party starts with the ending ceremony! Pencil it down: Holler at the Women’s Heritage Walk, Umm Al Emarat Park, February 14 at 6PM.
WE SAID THIS: Click here for more about Women’s Heritage Walk.