UAE student conquers Mt. Kilimanjaro

Tanzania: Earlier this year, Ismail Gadiwala, a 16-year-old boy from Dubai, summitted Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Mt. Kilimanjaro lies at 5895 metres above sea level and is the highest free-standing mountain in the world. “Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro was probably the most challenging thing I’ve ever done, but we finally reached the summit,” he said. According to Gadiwala, one of the greatest obstacles faced during the 7-day trek was the high altitude. The low temperature, combined with the thin air, made it extremely difficult to breathe. “The summit night was the hardest, it was too cold to move, and it was almost impossible to sleep in the tents.” The week-long trek was completed on February 24, 2023, and according to Gadiwala, it would not have been possible without the support of his father and the group of adventure enthusiasts who were with him for every step of this accomplishment.

Also, read – UAE Doctor climbs Mt. Kilimanjaro to spread the message of health and fitness

During the week-long trek, the group’s meals included soup, meat and vegetables. They tried to have as many hot meals as possible as the temperature was very low, and getting through the night was the toughest part. “This was one of my most memorable experiences. Throughout the trek, we bonded as a group and had a lot of fun. This adventure would have been impossible without their company,” he added.

Ismail is an 11th Grade student at GEMS Modern Academy. He is currently studying Chemistry and Biology at a higher level and aims to pursue those subjects in the future. Ismail discovered his passion for trekking at the age of 13 and it has always been his dream to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro, which he finally completed.

Ismail did not attend any professional training before conquering the summit. To prepare himself for this journey, he attempted numerous local treks with his father, as well as exercised and cycled regularly to improve his endurance. Ismail’s parents could not be any prouder of him. His father was with him at every step of his journey as a witness to this achievement, while his mother’s good wishes accompanied him at all times.

This article was contributed by Keshika Vasuja, intern at The Brew News, and student of GEMS Modern Academy.