#61 November 2015

THE CUBE
A FORGOTTEN UAE BOULDER

Fatbiking in the mountains
Budget climbing
in Romania
Clear waters, better dives

Jake helps clean the seas
Plenty of
PRODUCTS
TO CHECK OUT
Price
10.00 AED
10.00 QAR
1.00 OMR
We Conquer:
THE DUBAI
GLADIATORS
CHALLENGE!
OASIS OFFROADS
DESERT PARADISE
Vol. 5, No. 10
October 2015
www.OutdoorUAE.com
PUREST EXPRESSION
OF PERFORMANCE AND STYLE
INSTANTLY RECOGNIZABLE
The best of all worlds: Timeless, authentic style,
versatile features and modern technology for a
smooth-handling, high-performance ride.
Classic style meets modern performance and

technology.
HANDCRAFTED, AMERICAN
LUXURY REDEFINED
IN TOUCH WITH ITS PAST,

BUT FAR AHEAD OF ITS TIME
This is Pure American Luxury: The dramatic design

complemented with ergonomic luxury and innovation for
both rider and passenger makes for an unmatched ride.
This powerful, versatile, next-generation bagger

treats riders to a hint of tradition and a strong dose
of distinctive attitude.
DISTRIBUTORS
QATAR
Protech Powered Sports Co
Street: Salwa Road PO Box: 91, Doha, Qatar
Tel: +974 44398030
Fax: +974 44398030
Sales
Email: info@protech.com.qa
OMAN
FairTrade Auto Services LLC
P.O. Box 2636, Ruwi, Muscat
Tel: +968 96778552
Fax: +96824701787
Contact person
Mr. R. K. Sunder
Email: sunder@ftgroupholding.com
DUBAI
Showroom No. 8, Al Ghandi Complex
Nad al Hamar Road, Ras al Khor
Tel: +971 4 2896100
Fax: +971 4 2894914
Email: sse@polarisuae.com
MUSSAFAH
M4, Sector 13, 10th Street
Tel: +971 2 5555144
MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2015 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM
OutdoorUAE Team
Daniel Birkhofer
Founder and General Manager
daniel@outdooruae.com
Because I Got High

Ah, mountains those tall and
imposing masses of land that we as humans climb to achieve a certain sense of
achievement. Mountains have long been
associated with achievement as well as
religion because of one underlying principle one that we dont address as it has
become deeply ingrained in our subconscious. Because we want to feel that we
as humans are the masters of our planet
and that no area, no matter how deep or
high, could stop us. Mountains give us an
ecstatic feeling and that is why this message has been titled that way.
Perhaps the most beautiful phrase spoken about our
desire to climb came from the
late George Mallory when he
was asked why he wanted to
climb Everest. He simply said,
Because its there. Those
three words became
Keith Perea
Junior Editor & Social Media the mantra of a majority of climbers not just
keith@outdooruae.com
for the plain simplicity of it, but because it speaks

to them on a deeper and spiritual level.
With the beginning of the outdoor season, we
found it best to start with the most common thing
associated with the outdoors mountains. Ask
anyone what they remember about the word outdoors and theyll definitely tell you mountains.
In this issue, well be talking about the high life
peaks on every corner of the world; from Bhutan to
Romania, Turkey, Pakistan and even right at our very
own doorstep here in the United Arab Emirates.
A little story if you dont mind, sometime last
September, I had the chance to try out a climbing
wall. Now before anybody raises a comment, let me
first say that its my first time to try a climbing wall.
At first I thought that it would just be a cakewalk
but boy I was surprised to realise that climbing was
the easy part and coming down would be filled with
panic as one of the attendants said let go in my
head I was saying Let go? Are you crazy? I dont
want to fall to my death! Looking at it in hindsight,
I do believe he was right because when I let go and
slid myself down that wall, I felt a sense of achievement. I think thats what most climbers are after
that exhilarating feeling of going up and down.
In the next pages, expect to see climbs be it in
boulders, walls, mountains and how in every corner
of the world there is a climber taking it on and
proving to him or herself that Yes, They Can.
Editor
For editorial content and press releases
Tel: 04-447 2030
Mobile: 055 5760322
editor@outdooruae.com
Sales & Marketing (advertisement enquiries)
Tel: 04-447 2030
Mobile: 055 9398915
linda@outdooruae.com
Published by
Outdoor UAE FZE
In cooperation with A2Z EVENTS
P.O. Box 215062
Dubai, U.A.E.
Tel. 04-447 2030
contact@outdooruae.com
www.outdooruae.com
Cover photo by: Tara Atkinson
Distributor
Dar Al Hikma LLC
P.O. Box 2007, Dubai, UAE
Tel. 04-266 5394
Printed at
GN Printing
P.O. Box 6519, Dubai, UAE
2015 Outdoor UAE FZE
Vol. 5, No. 10, October 2015
www.OutdoorUAE.com
Facebook.com/OutdoorUAE
Get to us on Facebook!
2015 Outdoor UAE FZE

Reg. at Creative City Fujairah
P.O. Box 4422, Fujairah, U.A.E.
Eulogy van Dyk

Editor Qatar
eulogy@outdooruae.com
Linda Turcerova
Sales and Marketing
linda@outdooruae.com
Jung Francisco
Designer and Photographer
jung@outdooruae.com
Katherine Caedo Patangui

Administration
kathy@outdooruae.com
Ian Sebeldia
Circulation
ian@outdooruae.com
EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS
Marina Bruce
The Desert Diva and
off-road expert
Kit Belen
Our fishing pro
Nico de Corato
Diver and heli rescue swimmer
with Bergamo Scuba Angels
Twitter.com/OutdoorUAE
Instagram.com/OutdoorUAE
The information contained is for general use only.

We have made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this magazine has been
obtained from reliable sources. The publisher is not responsible for any errors. All information in
this magazine is provided without a full guarantee of completeness, accuracy and chronology. In
no event will the publisher and/or any of our affiliates be held responsible for decisions made or
action taken in reliance on the information in this magazine.
All contents are copyrighted and may not be
reproduced in any form without prior written
permission.
Rachael Bruford
Travel Editor
Ivana Chiles
Health coach and outdoor enthusiast
Dan Wright
Freelance wilderness guide in the UAE
Jake Lyle
Diving and Watersport Expert
WHEN YOURE
DONE READING,
PLEASE RECYCLE!
Helle Bachofen Von Echt

Elite Women Cyclist
OUTDOORUAE
CONTENTS
10 DUBAI GLADIATORS CHALLENGE
22 BHUTAN: SNOWMAN TREK
38 OUTDOOR FLICKS
EVERY ISSUE
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
06 EVENTS CALENDAR
08 BEST SHOTS
10 OFF-ROADERS CORNER: OASIS OFFROAD
44 PRODUCTS
70 DIRECTORY
20 ROMANIA: LOW BUDGET MOUNTAIN PARADISE

22 BHUTAN: SNOWMAN TREK
26 THE ELBRUS LETTERS
28 ROCTRIP: OLYMPOS, TURKEY THE FINALE
32 BACK ON ANOTHER SLOW LANE TO NOWHERE
EVENT & ACTIVITY REPORTS
LIFESTYLE
10 DUBAI GLADIATORS CHALLENGE

12 DOAS 2015 PREVIEW
14 DUBAI AND CONSERVATION?
18 MEET THE TEAM: OCEAN SPORTS FZE AMBASSADORS
34 NATURAL HISTORY
37 ETHICS OF HUNTING
38 HABITUALLY HEALTHY
40 NATURAL HISTORY
42 FIRST LOVE
OUTDOORUAE
50 LIFEPROOF IPHONE CASE
56 AN UNDERWATER CLEANUP - JAKE
62 THE BOULDER THAT UAE FORGOT
TRIED + TESTED
PEOPLE
47 NATHAN VAPORAIRESS
50 LIFEPROOF IPHONE CASE
61 MASOOMA ALI
OUR EXPERTS
62 THE BOULDER THAT UAE FORGOT

64 THE OMANI STRETCH - FINALE
53 IN SEARCH OF ALTITUDE EULOGY

54 BIKING IN THE MOUNTAINS NICO
56 AN UNDERWATER CLEANUP - JAKE
58 WOMEN ON WHEELS: THE MOUNTAIN RUNNER HELLE
60 DO IT YOURSELF: 30 AED QUICK WASH JIG/LURE BOX - KIT
LOCATIONS
TIPS + TRICKS
66 ROCK CLIMBING EXERCISES
68 HYDRATION IN EXTREME HEAT
OUTDOORUAE
EVENTS CALENDAR
STAY UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LATEST EVENTS
OCTOBER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
O
C
T
ABU DHABI TOUR
Four great races around the vast and spectacular Emirati capital From Liwa to Yas Island.
When: October 8-11
Where: Abu Dhabi (Liwa, The Capital, Al Ain and Yas Island)
Contact: www.abudhabitour.com
16
O
C
T
PINK RUN 2015
A 5 or 10km run within the grounds of Zayed Sports City. A

run dedicated in supporting the Breast Cancer Awareness
month.
When: October 16
Where: Zayed Sports City, 7;00 a.m.
Contact: www.premieronline.com
OCT
23
OCT
24
2XU 5 STAR AQUATHLON
The Abu Dhabi Tri Club returns to the Emirates

Palace for this seasons opening aquathlon.
When: October 23, 6:30 a.m.
Where: Emirates Palace
Contact: www.abudhabitriclub.com
GO SPORT/ASICS 12K, 8K
AND 4K RUN SERIES
Run along the beautiful The Track Golf

Clubhouse in Meydan and get a chance to win
an all-expense paid trip to the French Alps!
Where: The Track Golf Clubhouse, Meydan
Contact: www.supersportsdubai.com
OUTDOORUAE
17
O
C
T
JLL ROY NASR MEMORIAL TRIATHLON
The first race of the JLL series, dedicated to the memory of

Roy Nasr.
Where: Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Hotel
Contact: www.race-me-events.com
OCT
24
OCT
30
X-TRI CROSS COUNTRY TRIATHLON

The first off-road triathlon in the region.
Where: Kalba, Sharjah
2XU/GO SPORT TRIATHLON

CHAMPIONSHIPS
Win a week-long holiday in the French Alps

in this Mamzar Beach race.
Where: Mamzar Beach
Contact: www.supersportsdubai.com
29
ai
Show 2015
adv
e n t u re
sh
Dubai
.c
ow
O
C
T
DUBAI OFF-ROAD AND ADVENTURE SHOW 2015
The only off-road show in the region with big cars, big thrills and big surprises is back for the second time around.
When: October 29-31
Where: Dubai Sports City
Contact: www.dubaiadventureshow.com
22
O
C
T
GULF BIKE WEEK
Ride hard in the regions premier biking lifestyle event. With

insane stunts and custom bikes to boot
When: October 22-24, 4:00 p.m.
Where: Dubai Autodrome
Contact: www.gulfbikeweek.com
OCT
29
DUBAI GLADIATORS CHALLENGE
The fun adventure challenge for the whole family and

office is back - this time in the outdoors.
23
UAE WOODEN POWERBOAT RACE
Over 25 powerboats battle it out in this intense race.

When: October 23
Where: Abu Dhabi Breakwater
Contact: 02-681-5566
OCT
30
When: October 29-31

Where: Dubai Sports City
Contact: www.dubai-gladiators.com
OCT
30
CONTAGION RUN DUBAI 2015
Zombies and Survivors have never been this

active and cool.
When: October 30, 4:00 p.m.
Where: Nad al Sheba Cycle Park
Contact: www.contagionrun.com
O
C
T
WESTIN KILO MARATHON RUN 2015

Run along one of the worlds most beautiful golf
courses for a good cause!
When: October 30, 8:00 p.m.
Where: The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort
OCT
31
WADI ADVENTURE RACE 10
Prepare to light up the front in the 10th Wadi

Adventure Race with new obstacles awaiting
you in the fields of battle.
Where: Wadi Adventure, Al Ain
Contact: www.wadiadventure.ae
OUTDOORUAE
BEST SHOTS
Here are the best shots sent in by you for
our monthly photography competition! Thank
you for all your entries, they were all great
and it was hard selecting the best photos this
month. Congratulations to the top three
winners, who will each receive Buff headwear,
five free copies of the magazine and the
Advance Off-road Guidebook: Doe Lone,
Wilander Xavier and Jenny Moore. Well done!
To submit your entries, simply email us at
competitions@outdooruae.com with the
subject Best Shots.
Doe Lone
Grant on crux move of FA-Chumbawamba 6c+, The Wave, Hatta
Wilander Xavier
Jumeirah Beach Shoreline

8
OUTDOORUAE
Jenny Moore
Climbing the Via Ferrata at Jebel Shams
THE
OFF-ROADERS
corner
Oasis Offroad
Words By: Marina Bruce
Photos By: Martin J L Pepper
and Marina Bruce
Oasis Offroad is an Al Ain

based group offering accessible adventures in the beautiful red dunes
around the United Arab Emirates
Garden City. Established in 2012,
they cater to drivers of all levels,
offering a range of trips from Easy
Introductory Drives (EIO), to family
trips, advanced sand driving and
long distance overlanding
adventures!
The deserts and dunes of the UAE are a
gorgeous place to be and if you want to
get out and enjoy this unique environment
in your 4x4 then Oasis Offroad is always
pleased to lead you there. They offer tuition to new drivers through their Easy Introduction to Off-roading (EIO) course, where
typically two, maximum three, new desert
drivers are taught the basics in a safe and
structured way.
They run easy and intermediate trips
to a range of beautiful destinations, from
tree-lined valleys to swimming holes, wadis
and giant dunes. Some trips include family
camping and barbecue nights in the desert
where you can relax and enjoy the company
of like-minded people away from shopping
malls and city lights. One of their marshals
has a projector and his movie nights in the
desert are not to be missed!
As their members driving progresses
they run more advanced trips, giving expert

tuition, increasing the level of technical
difficulty and gaining access to even more
of the spectacular desert. Oasis Offroadgrades drives from level one through to level four. Level one and two are easy drives
but the club believes in teaching people
to walk before they let them run. Once a
driver can accomplish all the easy manoeuvres safely and easily, the club offers them
a Side Sloping 101 trip. Side sloping and
sidecresting are two of the riskiest moves
off-road and this trip is designed to teach
experienced level two drivers how to tackle
these manoeuvres in a safe and controlled
fashion, before advancing to level three.
The grading is not done purely on driving
level; teamwork, attitude and equipment
are also taken into consideration, meaning
the club has competent drivers who are
always ready to assist on drives.
Regardless of the level, safety is always
a priority and the clubs western, English
speaking marshals are very experienced
off-roaders with first aid training.
2014 saw Oasis Offroads inaugural Dark
Skies Challenge event - a 100km straight
line challenge in the western desert of
the UAE, which was such a success that in
2015 it was opened up to teams from other
clubs. You can read about these trips in
OutdoorUAEs November 2014 and March
2015 editions.
Oasis Offroad might be small but they
are a very active club; in the last 12 months
they have posted over 60 trips excluding
EIOs! You will find them a welcoming and
friendly bunch, specialising in family drives
with small convoys of less than 10 cars;
teamwork is the name of the game and

you wont find show-offs or crazy drivers!
Although based in the Garden City they
run regular trips to Liwa, Oman and nearer
to home - in the Al Hayer area, which is
exactly halfway between Dubai and Al Ain.
You can join the Oasis Offroad community by signing up on their forum, then
request an EIO! Experienced sand drivers
should contact one of their marshals so that
you can be graded accordingly.
One of Oasis Offroads founding marshals
currently writes for OutdoorUAE Marina
Bruce is our resident Offroad Expert and
you can find some of her articles about club
trips, as well as off-roading hints and tips,
in previous editions of OutdoorUAE.
EVENT REPORT
Veni, Vidi, Vici
Everybody goes home a winner in the

recent Dubai Gladiators Challenge
Words By: Keith Perea
Photos By: Jung Francisco and Trevor Goddard
When I hear of an event any

event at all, the first thing that
comes to mind is that, It is a
competition and somebody is bound
to be a winner. We have events all
throughout the season that focus
on a person or a set of people to be
touted as the winner of the competition. Whilst Im not against the idea
of having winners, it sometimes
feels that we are all too absorbed
with the idea of winning when in fact
the gist of joining an event is to have
fun and have a great weekend: the
competitive edge is optional.
So it was an absolute surprise when I found
myself setting foot inside The Dome in Dubai
Sports City last 17th-19th of September to
take part in an event where they explicitly tell
you that everybody goes home a winner.
This is an event where the people get photos
with Roman guards, shoot arrows at targets
or play with a buddy and battle it out in a
joust only to end up lying down on the foam

laughing at each others knockdowns. This is
a fun weekend; this is the Dubai Gladiators
Challenge.
Held inside the Dome in Dubai Sports City,
the Dubai Gladiators inaugural event saw
hundreds of hopeful warriors battle it out
across three days. To give them a taste of the
event, the 17th of September witnessed the
open training day wherein the participants
and several other visitors got to experience
the challenges and prepare for the intense
combat that ensued between individuals and
teams over the next two days. Now, it does

seem misleading that there seems to be a
competition but heres the catch nobody
went home empty handed, with every single
participant receiving a medal, and a goody
bag filled with gladiatorial swag and other
goodies from the events partners.
The first day was a blast, with participants,
most especially children, having a great time
with their families taking on challenges such
as Target Shooting, The Arena, the Joust and
event one on one Rope Pulling! There were
various interesting sights at every challenge
Scores - The Arena

Rank
but what would be most memorable was

during the Rope Pulling when visitors surprisingly participated in the pull between two
persons so that at the end both sides had
three or so people, all laughing at their fun
antics and doing the same thing all over again.
I even managed to train my archery skills over
at the Target Shooting challenge wherein I was
single-handedly owned by a toddler of a girl.
Hats off to her for managing to hit the furthest
target!
But it was not only in those challenges
where fun could be found. The joust saw some
hilarious moments with couples battling it
out against each other in a creative form of
quarrelling and even colleagues laughing at
how they could easily remove the stresses of
the work day with the use of an inflatable joust
and their favourite break time buddy.
The Arena was another challenge altogether. At first sight, its just a simple looking
course but it was made with the intention
of really testing your mettle. I got my own
taste of it and the idea that it was easy was
debunked as I found myself reaching for my
breath after climbing, jumping and crawling
my way to the finish line. The Arena witnessed
several gladiators who managed to complete
the course in record times; the fastest being
a quick one minute and 29 seconds! You can
find a list of the top 25 times in the chart on
the right side.
The next days witnessed individuals and
teams take on the various challenges, and
those who achieved the most points won
another prize on top of their goody bags!
Several lavish prizes were also raffled off
during the day, ensuring that everybody
went home happy and content after so many
challenges. The last day was mainly about the
various teams that were taking part. Offices,
friends and families all teamed up to achieve
the most points and it was the climactic

resolution to the time they spent during the
training day. The Saturday Gladiators jumped
hurdles, pulled ropes, swung jousts and shot
arrows in order to prove who would gain the
blessing of the Emperor and be crowned the
top Gladiators of the day. The award went to
Team Adventure HQ who managed to net an
astounding team score of 300 points. They
were closely followed by Team Alemco with
277 points.Rounding off the top gladiators
was Team EO Vikings with 270 points. After
the awards, a bevy of photos ensued with everyone showing off their best gladiatorial poses
with the Dubai Gladiators very own warriors
complete in their Roman regalia. Sadly, the
event had to come to a sudden close in light
of the passing of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin
Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the
United Arab Emirates and the Ruler of Dubais
son. The organisers found it proper to pay
their respects to the family in this manner.
Despite closing its doors early, everyone was
jovial to find out that the event will be back
during the winter season for another round!
And this time, they promise a more intense
challenge held in the unbridled and unlimited
vastness of where else? The outdoors!
Names
Time (min/sec)
Aziz Alharbi
1:29
Imran Akbar
1:41
Vinod Rana
1:42
Shane Shellebarger
1:42
Jacob Lamb
1:44
Saad Qureshi
1:51
Marc Weller
1:52
Mano Hagh
1:55
David Engelbrecht
1:57
10
Enoch Lastleberry
1:58
11
Faisal Tamimi
1:58
12
Daniel Birkhofer
2:00
13
Mohamed Ranadan
2:02
14
Lasse Sand
2:02
15
Ali Alteneji
2:03
16
Marwan Ebeid
2:14
17
Jeff
2:16
18
Ali Agoumi
2:16
19
Shewey Akter
2:17
20
Shaun Haunghley
2:21
21
Keira Haunghley
2:22
22
Aisha Almehain
2:24
23
Julius
2:38
24
Colin Guppy
2:42
25
Shaun Hernon
2:42
29-31.10.2015 Dubai Sports City, Rugby Pitch 1
Thanks go out to the organizers, partners and sponsors to make this event happen:
OUTDOORUAE
11
EVENT REPORT
#DOAS2015: What You Could Expect

Photos By: Jung Francisco
Back for another round of

off-road and outdoor activity fun,
the Dubai Off-Road and Adventure
Show organized by Events A2Z
and OutdoorUAE magazine will be
returning this month from the
29th to the 31st October at the
Dubai Sports City to showcase the
greatest 4x4s in the region. A mix
of social event and exhibition, the
show highlights the various outdoor
activities available in the region
while being supported by numerous outdoor brands resulting in a
show that perfectly encapsulates
the outdoor lifestyle of expats and
residents alike in the UAE.
Apart from displays of prominent outdoor
brands, visitors can also have a go at some
of their products as the show allows for
exhibitors to provide free demos of their
products such as mountain bikes, fat bikes
and stand-up paddle boards to name a few.
Other than that, these products will be available for sale on all days of the show ensuring that you get only products from the best
outdoor brands in the region.
Of course the obvious highlight of the

show will be on the selected 4x4s that will
be displayed as they all vie for the title of
Best 4x4 of the Show the ultimate prize of
the Dubai Off-Road and Adventure Show.
Be it a classic weekend warrior, an over-thetop custom, daily drivers or even monster
trucks or Baja bugs, well make sure that
there will be awesome cars worth taking selfies and snapshots with. Other than 4x4s, dirt
bikes, quads and other gas guzzling beauties even boats will be displayed in the
event side by side with the regions greatest
rides.
While were on the topic of offers, there
are multiple ways you could win spectacular
prizes with some various activities offering
you the chance to take home some fabulous
outdoor swag! One of these events is the
returning Dubai Gladiators Challenge. This
time, the gladiators will take to the fields of
the great outdoors as they compete, conquer and have a great time be it setting best
times in the Arena or simply battling it out
at the Joust. You can register at premieronline.com or at the venue directly (more info
on this below). With this event taking place
simultaneously, this years #DOAS2015 is
bigger and better than ever.
And once the sun sets and everyone is
tired but fulfilled? They can all relax in rest
areas generously sprawled throughout the
venue and listen to bespoke tunes. Visitors can also take a swig at the F&B section
where DOAS will offer spirits only for adults.
For everyone else, the best of Dubais
culinary diversity will be highlighted as we
bring along several of the regions best food
to close off your experience of the event on
a high note.
The Dubai Off-Road and Adventure is
happening on the 29th the 31st of
October at Dubai Sports City, tickets are
priced at 30 AED when pre-purchased
online at ticketmaster.ae and 50 AED
on the day of the event. Clubs, social
groups, expats and locals are all welcome
in this spectacular highlight of the UAEs
outdoor community. For more information, find us on the following spaces:
@dubaiadventureshow
OffRoad & Adventure Show
www.dubaiadventureshow.com
ACTIVITY REPORT
Dubai and Conservation Really?

Words By: Matthias Hammer
Photos By: Supplied
Dubai and conservation are not

two words you would expect to
hear together; and yet there is a
remote and hidden desert gem just
40 minutes from the bustling city
centre.
Its ears are enormous. Its look is one of a
deer caught in the headlights wide-eyed,
frightened and confused. It is an extremely
rare Sand Fox and it has wandered into the
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR).
Dubai and conservation? Really? Those two
words dont usually go together in most
peoples minds.
I am in the Dubai Desert Conservation
Reserve on a volunteering expedition with
Biosphere Expeditions - a non-profit conservation organisation - helping Steve Bell and
Greg Simkins, two South African biologists
who are gathering data on Dubais desert
14
OUTDOORUAE
wildlife, including the Arabian Oryx, Gordons Wildcat, Sand Fox, Sand and Mountain Gazelles, birds, reptiles and more. All
of these animals exist, and some thrive, in
this seemingly endless sea of sand dunes,
stretching to the horizon in wave after wave
of orange and gold. It is just 40 minutes
from the city centre, and after you peel off
the busy motorway, tranquillity rules. The
gates open and turtle doves sing above the
sound of the wind, sand drifts across the
asphalt, which soon runs out into the sandy

sea, turning into a road back in time and in
another world. An Arabia before the advent
of firearms, before oil was discovered, before
commerce turned the United Arab Emirates
into a country of big money, cars, skyscrapers, shopping malls and fast food outlets.
In this old Arabia, the desert and its wildlife
rule.
As we drive down the track, I am reminded
of Africa. An Oryx stands majestically on the
crest of a sandy wave, gleaming white above

the orange sand and against the clear blue
sky. With his long slender horns and graceful outline, he is calmness personified and
a quintessential Arabian image, gone now
from the rest of the peninsula, hunted to
extinction in all but protected and fenced
areas. Gazelles are not so calm as they dash
across the road, sprinting as if their lives
depended on getting into the safety of the
sandy sea that is their home. Vultures circle
overhead, soaring high on the deserts thermals, drawing circles into the skys perfect
blue. A spiny-tailed lizard rests in the shade
of a bush, biding its time; oblivious to the
haven it is living in. Francolin game bird
families dart along the track like headless
chickens, trying to outrun the car when all
they have to do is turn sideways away from
it. When the car stops, they stop. When it
moves, they run alongside it. Just like those
silly Guinea Fowl in South Africa or Namibia.
But this is not Africa. This is Arabia as it once
was. This is the DDCR.
Conservation in this area started in 1999
when the Al Maha Desert Resort was opened
within a protected area of 27 km (Al Maha
Reserve). One of the first conservation actions of the reserve was a wildlife reintroduction programme for Arabian Oryx and the
two indigenous gazelle species (Sand and
Arabian gazelle), as well as programmes for
the protection of other key components of
the ecosystem, in particular the vegetation.
Close to 6000 indigenous trees were planted
in 1999 to create a natural seed bank, which
has now led to germination of indigenous
plants. In 2001 the resort management
began a major environmental audit of the
surrounding area. Following this audit a
proposal was submitted to the Dubai government on the formation of a national park.
The proposal was accepted and sanctioned
almost immediately and work began on
protecting the area.
Today the DDCR conserves a habitat known
as the Dubai inland desert ecosystem - sand
dunes interspersed with gravel plains. There
is also one rocky outcrop in the north of the
reserve, which provides nesting sites for the
scarce Desert Eagle Owl and two groves of
rare Ghaf trees. There are now around 400
Arabian Oryx from the 100 that were originally
re-introduced in 1999. Both the Arabian Oryx
and the Gazelle species have expanded into
the DDCR naturally as the amount of human
activity has been controlled and decreased.
Estimated populations of approximately 300
Mountain and 100 Sand Gazelle can now be
seen throughout the DDCR.
Our expedition base is nestled between

trees and dunes, in the middle of nowhere.
At night there is perfect darkness except
for a faint glow in the north. There is a large
Bedu tent with a colourful interior featuring
solar lighting, a shower and toilet block, a
tented kitchen where a culinary wizard from
Sri Lanka rules, and the dome tents that
most of us volunteers sleep in. The expedition leader just sleeps outside on a dune in
his sleeping bag. It gets cold at night, as you
would expect in the desert, but then soon
warms up as the sun rises over the sands. Its
January, so during the day its a very pleasant 20 to 30 degrees C, with dry and breezy
conditions. Greg tells me that its so hot in
the summer, that its virtually impossible to
be outside. At temperatures approaching 50
degrees C accompanied by very high humidity, I have no doubt this is true and struggle
even to imagine what that must feel like.
During the night we sleep in perfect tranquillity, with stars clearer and brighter than
I have ever seen before. Only the odd owl
hoot and the crackle of the dying campfire
embers disturb the desert silence. During
the day, our jobs are as varied as they are
easily learnt. The great thing about conservation biology is that much of it comprises
tasks that are easily mastered, Steve, our
expedition scientist explains. I need as
many people on the ground to help me
set live and camera traps, to check them,
change batteries, to be my eyes and ears

in the desert, recording species seen, their
number and behaviour. There is no technology to do this for me. Its down to good old
manual labour to collect many pieces of a
big puzzle that will help me and the DDCR
to make important management decisions.
Steves eyes light up as he says this, gesticulating, and his love for the desert is obvious,
as is his appreciation of our help. And in
this most commercial of places - its just
great to be able to share with like-minded
people our passion for the environment.
Soon Steve and Greg have won us over with
their enthusiasm and we are eager students
learning how to use binoculars and spotting
scopes, compasses and maps, discovering
how to set up and bait a live trap and do the
same with its camera cousin, and last but not
least, working out how to drive a 4x4 in the
sand without getting stuck too often!
After a day and a half we are out in small
teams to gather data for Steve and Greg.
Theres the driving through the dunes, which
16
OUTDOORUAE
is fun without the guilt of your usual tourist

dune-bashing sojourn. Then we are sitting on the crest of a dune, the sun on our
backs, observing a herd of Oryx through our
binoculars and spotting scopes. We look at
fat layers to assess health; we record males,
females and juveniles, their behaviour and
feeding patterns. Everything is meticulously
recorded in a datasheet. This is your reason
to be here and your legacy. If you dont fill
this in properly, you may as well lie on a
beach or go to one of the shopping malls
downtown, were the expedition leaders
words. So we are meticulous and it is interesting to observe how the various nationalities work themselves into their respective
roles. We are a very mixed team: a journalist
from Australia, an Austrian expat from Dubai,
a German health professional, a British
accountant, a local wildlife enthusiast and
an American psychologist with what in her
country must be an unusual fascination with
all things Arabic. But despite our different
backgrounds and ages, we moulded into a
team quickly, united by our common goals
and interests in nature and wildlife.
With the Oryx herd observed, we move on
to place some camera traps and then check
our live traps. Often they are empty, but with
the sand fox we have hit the jackpot. Steve
is elated. We sedate, measure, weigh and
tag him and then let him escape back into
the desert. We do the same with Gordons
Wildcats, another rare and threatened species, that we have captured. In that sense it is
not Africa where habituated animals are best
found where most safari vehicles congregate.
This is a truly wild place without safari tourists and it is a real privilege to be so close to
truly wild animals and to gain an insight into
the work of experts and passionate people
trying to conserve them. Steve and Greg are
two of those people.
The Arabian Oryx is the largest of the
antelopes in the region and it is very well
adapted to the extremely arid environment.
Oryx once roamed all across Arabia, but
firearms saw their rapid decline. Since 1986
the Arabian Oryx has been classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, but was
already very rare and believed to be rapidly
decreasing in numbers in 1965. The DDCR
is a globally important refuge for the species.
The Gordons Wildcat looks very similar
to and is the same size as a domestic cat.
Indeed, the biggest threat to the survival
of the Gordons Wildcat as a species is the
interbreeding with feral or domestic cats,
which could lead to its extinction as a distinct
species. Very little is known about the Gordons Wildcat population within the DDCR;
the last population estimate was done in
2004 and we are here to update this.
The Sand Fox, also known as Rpells Fox,
is a desert-adapted carnivore. Although it is
in the IUCN category of Least Concern,
little is known about its habitat and ecology.
This too is one thing the project is hoping to
change.
And finally, the Sand and Mountain Gazelle
are in the IUCN categories of Endangered
and Vulnerable respectively. The population of Mountain Gazelle is believed to be
only a few hundred worldwide. Major threats
include illegal hunting for meat and live capture for pets and private collections. Habitat
loss through agricultural development, fencing pasture for cattle, construction of roads
and settlements is also a major threat.
With all this, we help and it feels good to
do so. Like the little Sand Fox quickly disappearing off into the vastness of the desert
after we have released it, it may be just a
small thing in a sea of sand but despite us
being only drops of help, Steve says It is
drops of rain that make creeks and rivers,
lakes and oceans.
THE
SPECIALIST
ONLINE
ADVENTURE
RETAILER
TRAVEL
CYCLING
CAMP &
TREK
FREE NEXT DAY SHIPPING
CAMP & TREK
CLIMBING
WATERSPORTS
CLIMBING
FREE RETURNS
TRAVEL
CYCLING
WATERSPORTS
APPAREL
NO MINIMUM ORDER
OFF ROAD
FOOTWEAR
APPAREL
ACTIVITY REPORT
Words By: Leigh Pothecary

Photos By: Supplied
Ocean Sports FZE are pleased

to welcome on board four new
athletes that will act as brand
ambassadors and represent us
primarily in the sport of kitesurfing. Fabio Tomi,Alessandro de
Rubertis,Gerasimos Pavlidis and
Luca Savastano will complement
Jen Scully-Yates and Guy Welchman who currently represent us
in the United Arab Emirates for
Stand-Up Paddling (SUP).
We are extremely lucky to have such a
versatile team that bring some great experience, masses of enthusiasm and an air of
fun that surrounds them during each session. All of our athletes are competent kiters with a number of achievements to their
names, not only in kitesurfing. All of them
are familiar faces in the UAE kite scene.
Each one of them shows great passion towards the sport of kitesurfing, has amazing
commitment and shares a common belief in
Name: Fabio Tomi

Nationality: Italian
How long have you been in the UAE?
Six years
How long have you been kitesurfing?
Since 2004
Kite style: Wake style, Wave riding
Competitive achievements:
UAE Championship, KPWT
(World Cup Stage, Italy 2008) 8th place
What equipment do you use:
Naish Torch for Freestyle and the
Naish Pivot for Wave Riding
Favourite tricks: Blind Judge 3 with
Indy Grab, KGB Indy Grab
Favourite kite spot:
Le Morne, Mauritius
If you could kitesurf anywhere, where
would it be and why?
Le Morne, Mauritius. It is the perfect
playground. Start with some great freestyle and then drop the twin tip and get
on the surfboard into the waves
As an ambassador for Ocean Sports FZE, what do you aim to achieve?
To increase awareness and the popularity of the sport among the next generation.
Name: Luca Savastano

Five years
11 Years
Kite style: Free Style
Competitive Achievements: Al Gharbia
Watersports Festival, 1st place 2012 and
2014, 2nd place 2013 and 2015
What equipment do you use?
Naish C-Kite and Twin-tip
Favourite trick: Kite-loop 313
Favourite kite spot: Gizzeria Lido and
Lamezia Terme, Italy
would it be and why? That would be in
the Greek Islands, the best mix of wind,
nature, food, people and marine life.
As an ambassador for Ocean Sports
FZE, what do you aim to achieve?
The main aim for a team rider is to enjoy
the sport with the other team members. Spending time running after our passion, sharing emotions, resting together after surf sessions are what we really like and spending
this together is magic. The best expectation a sports person can fulfill, being a brand
ambassador and hence committed to its team is looking back at the time spent along
and feeling that the day is not enough, craving for the next to come and making sport
and passion become one.
the products they use to attain the highest

level of performance.
We have set out a few goals that

we want to attain as a team:
Promote the sport of kitesurfing in a

positive light and be courteous at all
times: Kitesurfing can be dangerous for
both the rider and others around if the
basic rules are not followed. The sport is
accessible to anyone from around 12 years
old and if taught correctly, then generally
the risk is quite low. The beaches in the
UAE are incredibly busy and the level of
curiosity amongst beachgoers can be quite
high. Beachgoers do not always consider
the risks or dangers that we as kitesurfers
already know. It is the responsibility of all
kiters to take the utmost care at all times
and not be afraid to point out to others involved in the sport, in a polite manner,that
they are doing things that may endanger
themselves or others. This is vitally important for the longevity of the sport in the
UAE.
Name: Alessandro de Rubertis

Almost 2 years
8 years
Kite style? Freestyle, Wave
Competitive achievements? 2015 UAE
Freestyle Champion
What equipment do you use? Naish
Kiteboarding, Prolimit, Camrig
Favourite trick: Back Mobe 5
Favourite kite spot: Kite Beach, Dubai
would it be and why? I would go to
Cape Town. I have heard it is the perfect
spot.
As an ambassador for Ocean Sports
FZE, what do you aim to achieve?
I would like that people understand
that the Ocean Sports Team is led by a
strong passion, not only for kitesurfing
but also for SUP and for surfing. We are a fast growing team of positive people with
the passion for watersports.
Create awareness and showcase the
quality brands that we use: You need to
ensure that you have quality and reliable
equipment when you are out on the water.
All of the brands the team uses are premium grade and the quality and durability
is up there with the best. We are confident
that anyone using this equipment will be
satisfied and our team can prove that the
equipment can be pushed to the limit.
When you watch them, you can see what
results can be achieved.
Be approachable: All of the team are
totally approachable and will happily
answer questions not only about products,
but advise on kiting in general. With such
a wealth of knowledge and experience
between them, we are sure that after you
have spoken with them you will come away
having learned something new.
Share the stoke: If you dont enjoy
what you do then you cant do it well. We
guarantee that when these guys are on the
water, they are loving what they are doing!
We all need to make sure that we have a
good vibe on the beaches here in the UAE
and ultimately look out for each other and
those around us.
Of course, wind is the most important
element in our sport and as the UAE conditions are generally at the lower end of the
scale, wind chasing is sometimes necessary.
Make sure you check out the wind charts
and if you want guaranteed time on the
water, dont be afraid to get in the car and
drive. All of the team like to follow the wind
and you will regularly find them on Kite

Beach or Ness Nass in Dubai, Yas Island in
Abu Dhabi or maybe in some more remote
locations to the north or south of these

Emirates. Another favourite spot is Oman.
Oman offers great conditions during the
season (April August) where you can
enjoy stronger winds and fantastic surf.
Although it is quite a drive, a long weekend
is easily doable and well worth it as you are
generally rewarded with lots of time on the
water.
With the prospect of more competitions
in the region in the very near future, all of
the team will have their eyes set on being
top of the pile. Everyone will be training
hard over the coming months and taking
every opportunity to get out on the water.
The commitment that goes into perfecting
each trick is phenomenal and the entire
team is constantly pushing each other to
achieve better results. It is great to see the
standard of kitesurfing in the UAE reaching
such a high level.
If you are interested to learn, or for
information on products or anything related
to kitesurfing, please contact Leigh on 055935-2735 or send an email to enquiries@
kitesurfsup.com
Always ensure that you use a qualified
and licensed kite instructor if you are taking
kitesurfinglessons.
Ocean Sports FZE are the sole distributor for Naish International, Prolimit, Camrig
and Bomber Floating Sunglasses for the
Middle East.
Name: Gerasimos Pavlidis

Nationality: Greek
3 years
8 years
Kite Style: Freeride/Freestyle
Competitive achievements:
1st place Wakeskate - Abu Dhabi Wake
Park Nationals 2013
2nd place Wakeskate - Abu Dhabi Wake
Park Nationals 2014
3rd place Wakeskate - WWA Wake Park
World Championship 2013
2nd place Wakeskate - WWA Wake Park
World Championship 2014
What equipment do you use?
Naish Torch/Park kites and Naish
Momentum board
Favourite Trick: Blind Judge
Favourite Kite Spot: Al Dabiya, Abu
Dhabi
would it be and why? Looking for a flat water spot, with 20 knots constant wind,
crystal water, food and drinks on the beach all year around. Any ideas for this paradise?
As an ambassador for Ocean Sports FZE, what do you aim to achieve? My first kite
and board were a Naish eight years ago. I have learned how to kitesurf and improved
my skills using this brand. I had a smooth and constant improvement day by day, using
a product that can support a rider from the beginning, to the intermediate and then
on to the advanced level. After a two-year break, I am going back to the brand that I
loved, this only proves my satisfaction and excitement of what I missed!
There is no other brand that can make you feel so loyal, faithful and give you so much
trust in your gear. This is the spirit Im aiming to spread around and make the world
believe!
OUTDOORUAE
19
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Romania
Low-Budget Travelling
to Mountain Paradise
Words By: Ileana Bozoianu
If you were given just a few

words, you could describe Romania
as a land full of paradoxical and
surprising experiences. I think I got
your interest.
Romanias diverse natural landscape offers a
wide range of outdoor activities. Tourists may
travel through imperturbable alpine meadows
covered by wildflowers, be charmed by glacial
lakes, or take in the lush, green view whilst
horse riding or mountain hiking. They may
also climb astonishing rock formations, photograph and study a whole universe of endemic
species of plants and animals, track one of
the rarest birds - the Gold Eagle - go to the
seaside or visit a wonderful and unique delta.
In order to reach Romania, daily flights from
the United Arab Emirates are the fastest way.
The tickets are pretty cheap: around 250-300
EUR round trip in spring and 400 EUR in autumn and winter. You can arrive in the capital
of Bucharest and from there depart to the
mountains or seaside as you prefer.
The Carpathians end their massive arc
in Romania. Because the country has 53%
of them, Romania is called the Mountain
Paradise. Also, the country has the highest
concentration of brown bears, wolves and
lynxes in Europe; it has the largest amount
of virgin forests in Europe (excluding Russia),
and over one-third of Europes thermal and
mineral waters.
As we still have a four-season climate,
mountaineering finds its place during both
summer and winter.
Winters come with large snow covers in
the Carpathians, making mountaineering a
great adventure of limit testing and physical
and psychological endurance. Summers offer

other types of views and more adorable colours. But spring and autumn are not excluded
from any type of activity, although they are
a bit rainy. These are the best seasons to try
rafting.
Some of the most significant destinations
in Romania for hiking and climbing are the
Bucegi Mountains, Piatra Craiului National
Park, the Fgra Mountains and the Apuseni
Mountains in the west of Romania. For now,
for the sake of a more detailed image, we will
deal with only two mountain ranges.
If you want to have an easy, pleasurable
hike then the Bucegi Mountains are one of the
best destinations. This mountain range has
charming rock shapes (megaliths) that made
the place famous: Babele (2,206m) and Sphinx
(2,216m). These two rock formations generated lots of legends and paranormal stories
that challenged a lot of mountain lovers to
take their paths. Near Babele you can find accommodation at Babele Hut. It has 108 beds,
a restaurant and other facilities. The price per

bed is relatively inexpensive, between 7 and
15 euros.
The medium running time of a trail towards
Babele or Sphinx is 4-5 hours, but you can
also climb by the aerial tramway as well.
Another impressive peak of the Bucegi
Mountains is Omu Peak (2,507m). It is the
highest in this range and the 11th highest in
Romania. The massive peak offers accommodation at Omu Hut, located near a meteorological station. The hut has 30 beds and a
restaurant. There is no water source or energy
supply. Accommodation is priced at about six
to seven euros a bed in rooms with 4-12 beds.
Any trail from mountain villages to this hut has
a medium running time of about seven hours.
The Bucegi Mountains offer a wide range of
rock climbing tracks, but some of them have
no trail markings, which makes them dangerous for those who do not know the area. One
of the most spectacular rock climbing trails is
Acele Morarului. Aside from the hiking part
of the mountain, there are 3-4 hours of pure
mountaineering. So, you should have the
proper mountaineering gear.
The best advice is to be guided by a local
organisation or a person who knows the trails
and the language, despite the fact that Romanians speak English well.
The second recommended destination
is the Piatra Craiului National Park. It is the
most important national park in Romania
due to its endemic species of plants and
animals. Furthermore, there are some villages
(Petera and Mgura) that preserve some of
the oldest Romanian customs. They are the
only Romanian villages included in a national
park. The traveller may have a relaxing walk
through these villages and observe Romanian
customs, eat Romanian traditional dishes and
enjoy the picturesque landscapes.
At the same time, the Piatra Craiului mountains generate a good deal of adrenaline. If
adrenaline is what you seek, then this is the
place. The main attraction is the limestone
ridge oriented from northeast to southwest.
It reaches its maximum height at La Om Peak
(2,238 m) and is the longest and tallest limestone ridge in Romania. Climbing the peaks
on this ridge means physical endurance for
hiking and good mountaineering knowledge,
not to mention that without adequate equipment, the trails can be incredibly dangerous,
particularly during winter. On this ridge, one
can find accommodation at Curmtura Hut.
It has 44 beds, a restaurant, a water source,
energy supply and an astonishing view. The
price per bed is between 7-12 euros depending on the number of beds in one room.
If one goes on the trail towards La Om Peak
from Curmtura Hut in order to complete the
whole ridge and reach the hut again, they
have to take a 10-12 hours hiking trail. The
trail may be done in two days, but, in this
case, you have to be prepared to camp at
a shelter bringing winter sleeping bags and
jackets. For a complete adventure, Piatra
Craiului offers a lot of places for rock climbing. Zrneti Gorges is the kingdom of rocks,
with trails of different difficulties. They seduce
mountaineering lovers as sailors were lured by
sirens.
For a standard hiking trail to be safe, one
has to of course bring the mandatory equipment: technical boots, technical waterproof
long trousers, technical T-shirts, a rucksack,
technical waterproof jacket, a hat, a one litre
water container, whistle, compass and first-aid
kit. For trails that combine hiking and climbing
or just for rock climbing, the equipment has
to include ropes and cords, fall-arrest devices,
ice axes, pulleys, ice pitons, ice crampons,
mountain helmets, harnesses, slings and
anchors.
Weather on Romanian mountains at high
altitudes may turn into a real enemy for those
who are not well equipped. In autumn and
winter, fog and wind are the most threatening weather phenomena. Wind produces
massive body cooling and, combined with
snow or fog that limits visibility, may put life
in danger. At high altitudes, wind may reach
sizeable speeds. Also, when one goes on the
trail on sunny days, snow starts melting and
it radically increases the risk of avalanche. In
spring, autumn and summer, precipitations
may endanger rock climbing activities as the
rocks become wet. Otherwise, these seasons

are recommended as a safer time for outdoor
activities.
It is well known that prolonged physical
effort requires a high consumption of fats,
sugars and nutritive substances. That is why
food carried by mountain lovers should have a
small volume, be unalterable and easily assimilable: chocolate, different types of nuts, fresh/
dried vegetables and fruits that you know you
tolerate well and that do not produce gastric
discomfort. Fruits also help, for hydration, and
because we mentioned it, the water container
should not be forgotten. It is a mandatory
item on the mountains, especially on trails that
do not have water sources.
OUTDOORUAE
21
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Bhutan, The Last Himalayan Kingdom
Snowman Trek
Words + Photos By: Massimo Ziino
Several years ago I was lucky

enough to be able to organise and
successfully complete an expedition
to Bhutan called Bhutan, The Last
Himalayan Kingdom, which focused
on the Snowman Trek. It was a
journey of about 350 kilometres
on foot, through the most beautiful
and far-flung valleys in the Bhutan
Himalayas, starting near the city of
Paro and finishing in the Bumthang
District town of Jakar.
Ive always been fascinated by this small
country - one of the highest places in the
world - which has maintained its cultural and
religious traditions intact, and despite the
borders with China to the north and India to
the south, has managed to maintain its own
identity.
After many experiences in the Himalayas, I chose to do the Snowman Trek with
a group of friends. I was driven by curiosity
to undertake a journey that is considered
by many to be one of the most challenging
and beautiful hikes in the world. Altitude,
distance, snow (which is almost always
present in the high altitude sections) and
unpredictable weather conditions make for
a challenging combination of elements; in

fact, crossing the last Himalayan kingdom is
a double challenge - with oneself and with
the mountain environment - which makes
this an attractive adventure and a very exciting experience. I prepared myself for a long
time for this expedition, trudging back and
forth in the Apuan Alps and the Dolomites in
order to achieve a good level of psychological preparation and physical fitness. I trained
hard, convinced that these efforts would
help me at high altitude.
I like to think that the more you suffer
during training at home, the less you suffer
during the expedition.
In addition to good physical preparation,
you have to have a lot of determination;
the psychological aspect is important in the
mountains. It takes good mental attitude,
positive and rational, to deal with the unexpected changes that nature throws in your
path, and making the right choices at the
right time. An expedition like this one has to
be planned right down to the smallest details, from technical equipment to logistics.
Take nothing for granted, and remember
that you will pay the price of every omission
when you are on the ground. In my experience to date, I can say that the success of
any group expedition is due to the capabilities of its individual members, good team
spirit and also a bit of luck.
The Snowman Trek lasted 25 days - a
total of 343km of paths between valleys and
high altitude mountain terrain. We trekked

through 14 mountain passes, the highest of
which was at 5,385 metres above sea level,
while the total change in altitude was 17,220
metres. I will try to briefly describe this
fascinating adventure, which all mountain
lovers should have on their list of things to
do before I die.
Arriving in Paro by plane is already a miniadventure, as the city is nestled in a deep
valley and the aircraft does several breathtaking manoeuvres when approaching the
runway for landing. Near Paro is Thimphu,
with its uniquely beautiful dzong (Buddhist
monasteries), where I witnessed a major religious festival with dancers in traditional costumes and ancient ritual masks. After a few
days of walking through hills and rivers, the
mountains became visible in the distance
and we began to climb.Entering the Jigme
Dorji National Park, the rhododendrons and
oaks that dominate the lower valleys give
way to conifers covered with long lichens,
which make the landscape quite surreal
when you look up.
Days go by; the coniferous forests thin
out and then, finally, we are at the foot of
the mountains! Jomolhari is there before
me - an impressive 7,314 metres of rock and
ice with a perennially snow-capped summit.
At its feet, the mountain passlies next to an
old fortress; this ancient construction, now
in ruins, was built to defend against Tibetan
attacks from the north.
After a good acclimatisation period

around 4,500 metres, we started climbing
steep trails and passes that range between
4,800 and 5,000 metres. Up and down,
important positive and negative altitude
changes of several hundred metres, sometimes as much as 1000 metres. In front of
me a sea of mountains unfolds, with unclimbed peaks over 7000 metres high.
We pass through villages, meeting the
unique people who live following the natural
rhythms of the seasons, their faces scarred
by the cold and wind. Jangothang Lingshi one village after another, just like the
mountain passes that open onto snow leopard territory; the snow leopards still manage
to live undisturbed here.
Weeks go by and fatigue sets in. The
nights are cold with temperatures dropping
to -10C, but luckily the weather is good. It
does not snow and the mountain passes are
open. We are now in the region of Lunana,
where the barley harvest season has just
ended - the fundamental livelihood of the
inhabitants of this unique land. Even now,
when I close my eyes, I can still see the
crystal clear sky above the hanging glaciers
of Teri Gang at 7,300 metres, with a large

glacial moraine below. In the distance, two
other huge glaciers createcoloured lakes,
and the melting ice flows into a river that
runs underneath our path.This is a majestic landscape, and a challenging one. The
exposed paths require our full attention,
and at this point-of-no-return, every single
step has to be made carefully. A physical
problem or any type of accident would be
big trouble. We are several days away from
the nearest village, and an evacuation from
these remote places would be an enormous
undertaking. Every night, the base camps
are higher and higher. At 5,000 metres the
sky is clear and it is bitterly cold, but we are
rewarded with a star-studded ceiling that
can be compared to no other. The high-altitude lakes unfold one after the other, some
with dark waters, some with clear waters
and colours that reflect the blue sky. These
images remain indelibly in the memory, and
satisfy even the most demanding explorer.
The weather situation changes and snow
OUTDOORUAE
23
begins to fall. Our tracks are soon covered

up, and this is not a good sign; after weeks
of walking at high altitude we didnt need
this, but it is part of the game and I am aware
of it. We approach the final and highest
pass - Ghopu-La at 5,486 metres - then there
are other lower passes and finally the long
descent that will lead me to the end of my
journey. But the end is still far away.
It stops snowing and the scenery is even
more surreal with more unclimbed peaks of
around 7,000 metres. Occasionally we come
across some grazing yaks, and we also meet
a caravan that is climbing our path with a
load of wool and hay for the cold Himalayan
winter; men run around shouting and whistling at the yaks to get them to climb, while
we can only stop and watch these strange,
imposing animals that fearlessly climb these
mountains.I ask one of our porters for the
name of the mountain in front of me that has
attracted my attention because of its bladelike form. The man looks at me in surprise
and says that it is called simply mountain,
it is a mountain and mountain is its name. I
am quite embarrassed by his answer; in fact
it is the obvious truth. It is our cultural heritage that drives us to give a name to everymountain we see; in the end, mountains are
mountains.
We are still descending, and begin to see
the valleys below, carved out by rivers that
24
OUTDOORUAE
we had seen as mountain streams several

days before, and forests which we know to
mean that in a few days we will be on the
last leg of the adventure. It begins to snow
again, but this time we are at lower altitudes
and the higher temperature here favours this
type of snowfall. It snows heavily; if this had
happened a week ago it would have been a
real problem. We carry on in the whiteness,
awaking every morning in base camps buried
under at least ten centimetres of snow.But
our morale is high, we are determined, and
now we are all quite sure that we will reach
our goal.
The path rises again, and there are more
mountain passes between 3,500 and 4,000
metres, and lakes and villages that are totally
in tune with the environment; there is nothing out of place, traditional clothing has not
been completely abandoned and traditions
are still taken into account.We pass the last
glaciers which continue to melt because of
global warming and we descend again, but
now we are walking through slush and mud.
I am soaking wet from head to foot and my
specialist clothing is no longer holding out
against the elements.High altitude terrain
may bring higher risks, but I vastly prefer it to
this cold mud all the way up to my knees.
Following the winding trail through the
woods and meadows where yaks graze, we
finally reach Dur Tsachu, which is known for
its thermal springs. After 22 days of walking,

during which washing was the last thing you
wanted to do, its so nice to be able to soak
in tanks of hot water used by locals to cure
a wide range of varied pathologies. After
the last of the 14 mountain passes - Juele-La
at 4,710 metres - we are in the Bumthang
District again. We hear the voices of distant
shepherds more frequently; for weeks we
have not seen a living soul, and now we
slowly begin to digest the fact that our adventure is about to end.
We have descended to 2,500 metres when
it starts to snow heavily again. The Snowman
Trek is not about to let us go that easily, and
we are reminded that it is not over yet. As we
continue to descend, the snow turns to rain,
but Im not giving up. We arrive back and
now it really is over. In the distance I can see
the dirt road and the off-road vehicles that
are waiting for us.
A rush of contrasting emotions overtakes
me; the intense joy of having made it, and
the melancholic sadness that the adventure
is over. This sensation cannot be described
properly, but everyone should experience
it at least once in their lifetime. I returned
home with indelible memories of a unique
place, inhabited by a proud people, able to
live with tradition alongside globalisation, in
harmony and symbiosis with nature. Bhutan,
the last Himalayan kingdom.
Uhuru Peak at Mt. Kilimanjaro
Its at the pinnacle of any

adventure travellers bucket-list,
and once you reach summit at
Uhuru Peak, the overwhelming
feeling of accomplishment mixed
with the pure awe and the
magnitude of watching the sunrise
over Kilimanjaros breathtaking
glaciers is jarring. Its a moment
where fatigue is forgotten and
natural adrenaline takes over as
you join the tribe of adventurers to
make it to the top.
Reaching the peak of the highest freestanding mountain in the world is no easy
feat, and the months you spend preparing
will be your saving grace as frostbite and
altitude sickness takes over. The terrain is intense, the high alpine deserts are navigated
via lush rainforests and moorland, scattered
with the eponymous dendrosenecio kilimanjari trees and an often barren landscape set
at the foothills of the glacial peaks.
As you begin the trek, the words pole
The Dendrosenecio Kilimanjari tree
pole will become your mantra as hours

of solid walking lie ahead. A slow descent,
though solid hike, Kilimanjaro doesnt heed
the same intensity as the likes of Everest,
however, dont let the seemingly small
distances fool you. Kilimanjaro will test your
physical and mental strength but the 15
minutes at Uhuru Peak are well worth the
training, preparation and sweat and tears
youll endure along the way.
Here we look at how to prepare

for Kili like a pro to get you to your
ultimate peak.
1. Training. Cardio is your
new best friend.
You want to make sure your body is at its

ultimate before you begin your trek. I always
hear people say 85 year olds do Kilimanjaro. Yes, but you definitely dont want to be
one of the 2% of climbers that fail to make
the summit, and failing to train is a surefire
way to get you there - whether its mountain
biking, long distance running, daily laps or
just amping up your FlyWheel schedule, fit in
as much cardio as you can pre-Kili. Dont just
stick to cardio though, youll want to make
sure your core is in shape too, core strength
stabilizes your entire body, which is essential
for a happy climb.
2. The UAE is the ultimate training

ground for Mt. Kilimanjaro
Stunning flora and fauna on Mt Kilimanjaro
So take advantage of it! The amazing routes

in and around the Emirates are perfect for Kilimanjaro prep. Still havent tried Stairway to
Heaven? Yalla. This is the easiest way to wear
in your hiking boots, test your gear and train
yourself in the Tanzanian step pole pole.
No, its not a type of African dance, but taking the time to walk one step every Mississippi second. This will prevent cramping and
ease the impact on your feet. Walking slowly
is a mental challenge as much as a physical,
yet theres something beautiful about slowing
the pace that allows you to be present in the
moment slowly, slowly.
3. Practice Your Breathing
Get your Zen on and practice deep and controlled breathing in through the nose, out
Hikers take a moment on Mt. Kilimanjaro
through the mouth, youve heard it a thousand times before. Your body will need as
much oxygen as it can get on the mountain.
Take up yoga, or even better, get hot with
bikram the 80/20 breathing style will assist
in the mindfulness required to breathe at
high altitudes. The Pranayama breathing style
practiced in Bikram Yoga trains you to control
your breath, using your mind to dictate how
much air you breathe into your lungs.
4. Choose Your Gear Correctly
Packing might be the most important part

of your Kilimanjaro prep. Remember when
youre preparing your gear that while less is
more, you dont want to skimp on quality.
Make sure your boots are excellent quality
and fitted by a professional, and practice
wearing them in with the right socks to avoid
totally unwanted and unnecessary blisters!
Layer like a pro and leave cotton at home,
opting for high quality training gear that will
let your body breathe (six days without a
shower and youll thank us for this one).
Booking Your Trip

For more information on booking
Mt. Kilimanjaro, phone 800-11-444 to talk
to a Flight Centre travel expert, or visit
us in-store to book your trip of a lifetime.
Packages start at 8,199 AED.
Flight Centre is located in The Ranches
Souk, Arabian Ranches 2 and Gold and
Diamond Park, Al Quoz or Yas Mall in
Abu Dhabi. www.flightcentre.ae
OUTDOORUAE
25
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
The Elbrus Letters

Words + Photos By: Fahd Abu Aisha
Day 1 - From London to Terskol
As is the case with most of my

trips with Rahhalah Explorers, I
signed up for the Mt. Elbrus expedition without a second thought.
Instead of pausing to grasp the
immensity of the looming challenge
I would face, I surged ahead with a
yearning for adventure.
It was only in London during some last
minute shopping for climbing gear two
days prior to my Mt. Elbrus climb that I was
prompted to consider the gruelling nature
of the journey. One of the salesmen asked
which route I would be taking up the mountain. I looked at him blankly, not knowing
there was more than one route leading to the
summit. He then asked where I was coming
from, and I responded Dubai. He recalled
knowing a Suzanne from Dubai - the first
Arab woman to climb Everest, and said that
I would be in safe hands if I was travelling
with her. I smiled, admitting it was because
of Suzanne that I could afford to be a little
ignorant about the climb.
The two days before the climb were ruthless. I arrived in London from Dubai at 10:00
p.m., hurriedly packing my gear and equipment in a frenzy. Snatching a couple hours of
sleep, I then awoke at 5:00 a.m. and rushed
to the airport, bleary eyed but nevertheless
amped up with adrenaline and that pulsating sense of adventure. My intensive work
schedule had prevented me from preparing
more adequately for the trip (I had travelled
to Nigeria for business before London and
Oman before that). I had to buy my snacks
26
OUTDOORUAE
Episode 1
and energy bars from the Duty Free, hoping

that they would sustain me throughout the
climb. Finally, trembling with anticipation, I
sat down in the terminal waiting for my flight
and prayed that I had not forgotten anything
else.
Upon landing in Mineralnye Vody, I lurched
out of the airport to a scene that reminded
me of my hometown, Cairo - hounded by
drivers offering taxis left and right while
dodging hysterical family reunions. My team
and I found our driver, who did not speak
a word of English but did signal with his
fingers that it would take three hours to reach
our destination. For some of the girls on
our team those three hours could not have
ended sooner.
We were warned about the drive or driving I should say -from the airport to the hotel
in our itinerary (which I had skimmed through
briefly). Even as a half Egyptian who grew up
in Cairo, this was some next level chauffeuring. We were like hostages being transported
to unchartered territory in a high speed car
chase, without the slightest interference from
the brakes, driving through a grey, barren
countryside. The driver seemed hell-bent
on winning a race he appeared to be having
with an imaginary Ferrari. We had a few stops
on the way engineered by our brave team of
girls; Manal, who was desperately trying to
signal, without looking too crude, that she
needed the bathroom, Rama and Danah,
stoically negotiating with a man in a phone
shop to buy a local SIM Card with internet,
and of course the mandatory selfies the girls
were adamant about taking next to a random
fruit stand by the side of the highway. Upon
nearing our destination, we picked up a
hitchhiking couple standing in the rain. A
sleeping Manal awakened and it took her a

rough 20 minutes to notice their presence.
She also screamed Cow!multiple times
to alert the driver to stay clear of the farm
animals strolling on the highway.
We finally reached our hotel in the town
of Terskol, where we were introduced to our
guide Lisa, who would be with us the whole
way pushing us to the summit. We had some
time to unwind and relax, until Suzanne,
Rama and Dana collectively decided the
group would engage in a late night walk:
a mini exploration around the village. We
spotted a hotel with the word karoake
emblazoned on the side in bright, blinking
lights. Naturally, there was no walking past it
so we had to go in. However, upon entering,
we were ambushed by 20 Chechen university
students residing there. It was our foreign
accents that enticed them, and they pleaded
with us to participate in their comedic
project.
It was a bizarre exchange, as they asked us
one by one to sit down in front of the camera
and explain how their music (which consisted
of two notes - a slap on the knee and a clap)
would inspire us to achieve our goal of reaching the summit. They then took pictures with
us, cementing our celebrity-groupie bond,
wishing us luck before we returned back to
the hotel.
There I met up with the fifth and final

member of the team who had just arrived;
Mohammad. Mohammad and I had summited Kilimanjaro together the year before
and he was a great mountain partner.I went
to bed and prepared for the early acclimatisation hike the next day.
Day 2 - Forget The Chairlift,

There Has to be Another Way!
have endured. As my legs dangled helplessly

over the scenic trees, I kept myself occupied
by assessing which points I had a higher
chance of surviving in the event that the chair
disconnected and toppled down. I concluded
that falling through some of the trees would
break my fall and despite a few bones as well
I would at least have a fighting chance of survival. I spent the other half taking selfies with
Manal. Thankfully, we reached the platform
where we hopped off to finally begin our first
day of climbing.
Our temporary guide for the day was
another Mohammed, a local from the village
studying tourism. He shared some historical
titbitswith us, as we continued the hike until
the path ended, close to the summit, where
we took some pictures with Elbrus in the
distance.
We descended, another highly stressful, creaking 15 minutes on the chairlift and
down to the village. Mohammed invited us to
indulge in a tasty local delicacy that had us all
Precisely intuitive.
Photo: Quincy Dein Rider:

Kai LennyQuincy Dein Rider: Kai Lenny
Photo:
It was a relatively relaxed morning as we had

breakfast and headed to Cheget Village,
where we would climb Mt.Cheget at a height
of approximately 3000m to begin adjusting
our bodies to the high altitude. One thing
our itinerary neglected to mention (after I
finally read it thoroughly), was that we would
be using chairlifts to ascend to a certain
point on the mountain, climbing over the
village and up the steep slope. With the chair
connected to the wire by a single pole, we
creaked our way up the slope for what was
one of the most anxious fifteen minutes I
craving for more a dish called shashlik. It is a

plate comprised of tender, grilled meat cubes
with sliced onions My mouth is watering
and I can almost smell that luscious aroma as
I write this.
The final task of the day was the gear
check procedure. This was to ensure that we
were all fully equipped and suited up for the
next four days. Naturally, none of us made
the gear check list 100% correctly and Lisa
drove us to a rental shop where we secured
some last minute supplies; from plastic boots
and crampons to ice axes and any other
outstanding items and/or clothing. Getting
accustomed to walking in the plastic boots
was quite the challenge. Like baby penguins
taking their first tentative steps, we waddled
awkwardly around the store and Lisa requested that we wear the boots for the remainder
of the night to start getting used to the feel
of them as they would be the only footwear
we would be wearing for the big climb. We
then headed back to the hotel where we had
a fulfilling dinner and shared some stories before having a nice warm shower; the last one I
would have for a few days... To be continued.
Precisely intuitive.
The 2015
PIVOT
The 2015
Freeride/Wave
PIVOT
Sizes: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
The Pivot emerges as a smooth,Freeride/Wave

all-around freeride/wave kite for a wide range of riders and styles.
Sizes:
4, 5, axis
6, 7,of8,rotation
9, 10, provides
11, 12, 14quick and easy turning, intuitive steering
Its overall structure and ability to pivot
on a small
and predictable
power development. It features a medium aspect ratio for substantial low-end power, a sheet-in
The Pivot emerges as a smooth, all-around freeride/wave kite for a wide range of riders and styles.
and go feel, easy jumping and great upwind performance. Thanks to its ability to make precision turns on a small
Its overallaxis
structure
and ability
to pivot
on a small
rotation
and easy
turning,
intuitive
steering
with minimum
power
increase
in theaxis
turn,ofthe
Pivotprovides
is also thequick
perfect
tool for
smooth
kiteloops.
and predictable power development. It features a medium aspect ratio for substantial low-end power, a sheet-in
and go feel, easy jumping and great upwind performance. Thanks to its ability to make precision turns on a small
minimum
powerfreeride
increase
Pivot is also the
perfect
smooth
Asideaxis
fromwith
being
a fantastic
kite,in the
the turn,
Pivotsthecharacteristics
also
maketool
it a for
great
wavekiteloops.
kite. Its lightweight
NAISHKITES.COM
NAISHKITES.COM
>Naishkiteboarding
>Naishkiteboarding
Ocean
Ocean Sports
SportsFZE:
FZE:+971
+971(0)
(0)5555935
9352735
2735 -- enquiries@kitesurfsup.com
enquiries@kitesurfsup.com- -kitesurfsup.com
kitesurfsup.com
design
power,
controlled
andcharacteristics
superior drifting
in make
a variety
of wind
andkite.
waveItsconditions.
Aside
fromdelivers
being asmooth
fantastic
freeride
kite, theturns
Pivots
also
it a great
wave
lightweightThe
design delivers
power,
controlled
and superior
a varietyforofforgiving
wind andstrapless
wave conditions.
ABSsmooth
bridle also
helps
decreaseturns
the amount
of pulldrifting
on theinharness
riding. The
ABS bridle also helps decrease the amount of pull on the harness for forgiving strapless riding.
Recommended
System:
FUSION
CONTROL
SYSTEM
RecommendedControl
Control
System:
FUSION
CONTROL
SYSTEM
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
DWS evolution - climbers heading from the warm up to the main wall
The Finale
Words + Photos By: Read Macadam and Tara Atkinson
In the mid-morning, with our

friends and a few climbing heroes
shoulder to shoulder, we walked
down an endless dirt lane, shirts
ruffled by the warm sea breeze.
As I wiped the beads of sweat
from my brow, my gaze focused
in the distance on bullet grey and
orange limestone visible through
the fragrant Turkish pines, many
campsites and bungalows lining the
track.
Kadirs Tree House where we stayed
The towering Mount Olympos in the distance
On this last stop on the Petzl Roctrip, our

climbers convoy, like a pirate caravan, found
a new lair; Kadirs Tree House, a massive
hand-built wooden lodge surrounded by
timber tree houses. Yargh!
This basecamp was my most coveted of
the trip; finally, at long last, after more than
40 days and 40 nights, we would be at the
coast. That meant deep water soloing
climbing rope free above the Aegean Sea.
A view of the new sector we were taken to
only accessible by boat, looking futuristic
With the crags in the distance we wandered

down the dusty lane to the coast
An old ruin with a tomb that pirates broke into
Approaching the coast, the sea breeze

became thick and aged. What lay before
us were ruins of ancient crumbling stone
structures, a memento to the impermanence
of civilisation and also to the permanence
of the human impact on the landscape.
Olympos, Turkey: a once-upon-a-time port
watched carefully over by the towering
Mount Olympos.
28
OUTDOORUAE
We are in a land of myth and legend, the

legacy of three thousand years of Greek,
Roman, Venetian, Genoese, pirate settlement rulers. The ancient city is now a relic,
like the set of an Indiana Jones film, covered
in creeping vines and overgrown by dense
trees and bush. With the water still flowing
through its millennia old aqueducts; a subtle
reminder of how life used to be.
Day one started off unexpectedly. I was

craving deep-water soloing but the Petzl
organisers had something else in mind.
Traversing the coast by boat we went to a
cliff just on the waters edge equipped with
steep
futuristic projects, yet to be climbed, in a
huge overhanging cave. The expression was
the same on everyones face; both journalists and team members jaws dropped at the
enormous amphitheatre accessible only by
boat.
I had made plans to team up with Steve
McClure to tackle a first ascent on one of
the wildly steep lines in the cave. I was particularly excited about climbing with Steve,
probably the most understated climber
around. Hiding under his professed love for
cakes and self-deprecating humour about
age and lack of training is a beast; a climber
with strength and tenacity of fanatical proportions. He is hands down the best climber
on the Petzl team. As we disembarked from
the dinghy, Steve and I bounded up to the
longest and steepest route in the lower cave
and began unloading our bags. Nearby, two
eager climbers tied in and prepared to climb
too, though now the organisers were struggling to manage the small crowd of journalists, urging them out from under the cliff and
imploring the climbers to wait. But it was too
late, our neighbouring climbers dislodged
a barrage of stones, unfortunately snagging
Tara right in the helmet and hand. Ironically,
Tara was the only person with a helmet!
Line to the boat for our first day of DWS
for Tara on the RocTrip.

The next day, we sauntered down the
lane, this time to catch a large Turkish gullet.
It was early by our standards and, in typical
RocTrip fashion, not many of the crew had
slept well. There was an excited chaos on
the beach as the organisers decided how to
divvy up the climbers into the three doubledecker wooden boats moored just off shore.
Dave Graham appeared at my side. In the
morning rush he had missed breakfast and
forgotten his boardies. Wham! Tara produced her boardies as she couldnt swim
due to the stitches and I, a boiled egg to a
Taras hand being tended to
I rushed down and thankfully her head

was unscathed, but a growing red hole in
her hand indicated it was time to rush her
back to shore for medical attention. Sorry,
Steve! I shouted up the hill, I have to go
back! Youre a noble man, Read! See you
back at camp. He replied.
With the immediate care of team member
Daniel DuLac and then a timely dinghy arriving, Tara and I, along with a few athletes
who had since decided that the cliff was not
worth it, rushed back to shore where the
extremely capable Petzl doc, Pierre stitched
Tara up with wizard-like skills in the caravan
itself now including a clinic to its growing
list of uses! Unfortunately, climbing was over
Approaching the DWS crag
magnificent pearl white limestone crag.

Excited talk of potential climbs morphed
into quiet anxious murmurs. Its higher than
I imagined. Whoa.
My heart-rate matched the chugging
diesel engine, and as it quickly turned into
a murmur; the clanking of chain noted our
arrival as the anchor accelerated into the
depths. I gazed out around me; this was
why I joined. I felt like I was entering my
own personally designed environment - the
temperature, the stone and the beautiful
The chaos that ensued! Boats, climbers,

water, rock = time to DWS!
Dave Graham- one happy man
now bemused and much happier climber.

We motored off, the big diesel engines
chugging past ancient cliff-top ruins and
countless potentially world-class DWS and
climbing crags, reflected in the perfect
Aegean blue of the sea. I do not think
anyone on the trip had seen what the DWS
cliff looked like and everyone on my boat
crowded to the roof deck when, in the
distance, we spotted two boats moored and
ant-sized climbers scaling and falling off of a
azure water.
In situations like this, with perhaps seventy
climbers all vying to climb on the easier sections of rock, I had no time to waste, so with
my shoes and chalk already in hand, I hailed
the first dinghy in sight and was whisked off
to an overhanging arch that lead to a head-
Stuck in a 3m dingy with the best climbers in

the world! This motivated me even more!
My first climb onto the overhanging arch
wall full of giant holes at 20m.

High above the water I got an elated
sensation as I ascend past a certain height. It
is a mix of lightness in my torso, a rapidness
of breath and a tingling erupting from my
chest like an exclamation. I realise that I am
high enough that ropes should normally be
present but I am free of their constraints and
so with deep, warm, water below for safety I
have absolute freedom.
I revelled in the sensation as I pulled
myself out from the overhanging arch and
onto the headwall, making large, full armspan movements between interesting hand
holds. Towards the top of the wall around
15m the rock deteriorated dramatically from
solid to a bit friable, muddy and blocky and
I paused to reflect on my options, noticing
that the main ships were drifting so close as
to be directly under my possible flight path.
I raised my eyes and grinned, staring back
at me was Laurent Lafouche, photographer
and Petzl Community Director, hanging at
the same level as me with his camera. I had
to wait for a minute or two for the landing to
clear then I jumped gleefully into the perfect
blue water to hollers from all over.
With one single day for deep water soloing I was not going to hold back. I hailed
another dinghy to get back to the wall and
looked around. I thought I was dreaming
Where else could you find yourself in 3m
dinghy with Daniel Woods, Paul Robinson, Ueli Steck, Nina Caprez, Loic Gaidioz,
Philippe Ribire, Christophe Bichet and
Cedric Lachat? I chuckled. A single torpedo
would sink many of the worlds strongest
climbers! I was motivated and inspired to
push myself even more.
In front of us was a perfect 10m tufa (in
geological speak that is a long attached
stalagmite drop), followed by another 10m
of unclimbed steep terrain to the top. The
other climbers had traversed quite far to
the right after the tufa to link into an easier
finish at 7b but I wasnt sold. I wanted to
30
OUTDOORUAE
explore, and so continuing directly above

the tufa, through what looked to be a very
difficult boulder on bad hand holds, I set off.
The tufa was magic, something I had never
experienced on a DWS, such perfection. The
boat below was full of helpful voices, hints
and encouragement. At the top of the tufa
my fellow climbers were yelling, go right,
its out right, but ignoring their suggestion, I set off, away from the chalked holds
and security, into the unknown. A section of
very tricky and powerful moves led me to a
circular hold, about the diameter of a mug,
but only one or 2cm deep. I realised immediately I was back-handed! The pump set
in fast as I struggled to insert my right-hand
fingertips into an already occupied hold and
whoosh, took the plunge! I must have raised
a few eyebrows because later on the fearless Petzl hardman Germe Pouvreau made
some fierce attempts to link a few moves
The best thing about DWS is you can make

the wall your own; working on my king line,
motivated by shouts from the crowd
The tufa was magic,

something I had
never experienced
on a DWS, such
perfection.
past my high-point to spectators delight.
There was no topo drawn for this cliff so
most climbers stuck to their comfort zone
and tried lines within their ability or that others had already pioneered, a circumstance
that worked to my advantage. Not wanting
to wait in queue to climb, I simply sought
new lines to try. My own king line began
at the foot of a rightward leaning arch.
After climbing up the steep corner and into
the left pinnacle of the arch, I then had to
traverse on the overhanging ceiling and out
onto the headwall 12m above the sea. Twice
I managed to just snatch the holds on the
headwall, before snapping the virgin rock
and finding myself swimming once again at
its base.
Nina Caprez joined me for a try on the
project and with fresh eyes she introduced a
possible new sequence to enter the headwall. My turn again, setting off from under
the roof, I put my left foot very high, near
hip height and, hanging horizontally, exposing my back to the sea 12m below, let out
an involuntary growl as I strained against my
bent left arm, I reached up a new high point.
I was gassed! A few desperate slaps led
me higher, but I was cooked. Allez! Allez!
the crowd shouted, but with a final slap of
desperation for the next hold I was airborne
flying to swim!
As the sun sank lower on the horizon, the
boats slowly pulled anchor and we motored
back to Olympos, reminiscing about the

highlights of the day, and marvelling at the
immense potential for climbing in this region
as the landscape passed us by.
Tara and I awoke late the next morning in
no rush to climb in the hot and humid sun,
preferring to wait for the afternoon breeze
and shade to arrive. In Olympos the balmy
weather and predominance of south or east
facing cliffs is great news for those who like
to sleep late. I had half a mind to climb at
a crag called Cennet, Turkish for heaven or
paradise, where the guide indicated were a
number of hard slabs. As we sauntered lazily
down lane towards the beach for a midday
swim, we juggled our afternoon options with
little conviction. It was the final day of the
Petzl Roctrip and we were happy to soak in
the sun and relax, allowing the entirety of 40
days and 40 nights of travel to sink in.
It was then that we passed the British
AO
rabian
but was also repelled by the horrible conditions.

Paul finally stuck the low crux boulder moves at the
base and climbed what we had to accept as a team
ascent, recommending that both Daniel and I try
again and if we miss the crux, pull through, because
the top is magnificent! And we did. And it was!
verland
enquiries@arabianoverland.com
www.arabianoverland.com
Hanging out and having a milkshake as we catch up with

Daniel Woods, Dave Graham, et al and the British contingent
contingent - Neil Gresham, Leah Crane and Liam

Lonsdale relaxing in a restaurant, coolly sipping
banana smoothies in a massive cushioned shaded
balcony. These guys were early risers and true to
form, they were finished climbing already. We joined
up to share DWS stories and hear about their morning and then Daniel Woods, Dave Graham, John
Cardwell, Gabriele Moroni and Paul Robinson joined
us. I never laughed so hard as we all shared stories
of travel, climbing and personal challenges weve
all faced. They had also heard of a slab, full of hard
routes and were heading up in the evening. We
Paul Robinson on the 8a+
With dense forest and

tropical-esque conditions the
more you climb the sweatier
the holds get. (Not what you
want on an 8a+)
Read trying hard on the

elusive 8a+ as the sun sets,
with Mt Olympos in the
background
We finished our final day, climbing the amazing

upper slab of the elusive 8a+ in the sunset, Mount
Olympos in the background.
Arabian Overland
specialises in group travel
to Oman and other
destinations worldwide.
We offer a range of all
inclusive packages for all
ages from 8 to 100 people
(Corporate, Educational,
Adventurous).
24/7 Fully supported
activities & events
Inclusive of transfers &
transport throughout
Tailored itineraries &
programmes
A variety of
adventurous activities &
tours: biking, hiking,
camping, kayaking
View of the stunning orange and grey Cennet wall
agreed to join forces. Now it was on!

Cennet is high up. From the base of the cliff we
gazed down the coast, beyond the tropical Riviera
scene of sailboats and beach goers to Mount Olympos, so massive and alpine in ap-pearance that it
seems out of place. The climbing is totally unique in
Cennet. The steepest point of the cliff is just vertical
and on the far left side it leans forward to less than
90, so geologically perfect that the stone offers
little weakness for us climbers. Our objectives were
two neighbouring routes - an 8a+ and an 8b, both
Looking back onto Olympos Bay from
the Cennet Wall what a stunning view!
extremely technical slabs.

I joined forces with Paul and Dave to siege the
8a+, while Gabriele Moroni casually dis-patched
the 8b second try. Our progress was slow. It was
30C and nearly 60 humidity in the shade and each
attempt layered the tiny and polished features in a
slippery mixture of sweat and wet chalk. We
alternated attempts and I surprised myself by nearly
sending on my second try, but my foot slipped
unexpectedly and I was back on the ground to try
again. Daniel came trodding up the hill to join us,
dishevelled hair in disarray and drenched in sweat
from climbing the 8b+ down the hill. He tried, too,
A traditional Turkish sendoff taking

over the Petzl Roctrip caravan last night
We strolled back to camp, relishing the pine-filled

dusk summer air and despite not having climbed our
goal, feeling very content after 40 days and nights on
the road. As we approached camp, the distant rhythmic thump of bass morphed and expanded to include
the tinny treble of horns and tambourines; it was a full
blown Turkish jam-session in the square of our pirate
camp. Belly dancers swirled and chimed and the
RocTrippers swayed to the music, clapping in unison.
We joined our pals in the crowd, friendships made
and solidified over our long journey and soon the
night progressed into the giant wooden barn where
the Petzl team, dressed in traditional Turkish garb,
ushered the event organizer, Erwann Lelann into the
mix, feting him with boxes of locum (Turkish delight),
which were passed out into the crowd.
The next morning, with the people still leaving the
barn, we congregated in front of the Petzl caravan for
one final goodbye. I, Tara, and our friends - old and
new, were off to embark on our own adventures.
Erwann Lelann the Petzl Roctrip Organiser being
crowned king and receiving his weight in Locum
Sifah Beach, Oman

Our private camp has full
amenities and can
accommodate up to 100
children or 60 adults
Corporate & Incentive

events
School adventure camps
Clubs, Groups &
Organisations for 8 or
more persons.
World-Wide
Destinations!
Sri Lanka
Nepal
France
Oman
Tanzania &
Zanzibar
Tel: +968 2461 4763
Saying bye to all the Roctrippers who had been

with us from the beginning! Until next time!
/arabianoverland
@arabianoverland
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Patrice and Marcel are Back on

Another Slow Lane to Nowhere...
Words + Photos By: Patrice de Wergifosse
If you are a long-term reader of

OutdoorUAE magazine, you already
know how I hate travel agency packaged trips. So when Ahsan, the
organiser of the Dubai Equestrian
Group on Meetup.com, proposed a
trip to discover the less-travelled
roads of Pakistan during the Eid
break, he had my full attention.
The plan was to visit Gilgit, Hunza Valley,
the Fairy Meadows and trek to the 3,800m
base camp of Nanga Parbat, culminating at
8,125m. Gilgit is in the north of Pakistan in the
foothills of the northern Himalayas, 100km
away from Afghanistan, 150km away from
Tajikistan and 150km away from China. So
our party of five - Linda from the Netherlands,
Khadija from Morocco, Amr from Syria, Ahsan
from Pakistan and myself (and Marcel of
course) landed in Islamabad on the evening of
Monday 21st September. It started raining as
soon as we exited the terminal. As the flight
to Gilgit was changed from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00
a.m., we cancelled the hotel that night and
headed to Monal, a very nice restaurant in
the hills overlooking Islamabad. Back at the
Kids
The team
airport, they told us that the flight was now at

7:00 a.m. and that we could not check-in yet.
The pavement in front of the domestic terminal made an acceptable bed for two hours.
Armed with our boarding passes, we could
not wait for the real stuff to start. The risk of
Marcel
flying to mountainous destinations, particularly

as winter is approaching, is the unpredictability of the weather. Unfortunately, after waiting
so long, our flight was then cancelled due to
high winds around Gilgit, leaving us disappointed but not angry. Flying between peaks
of 6-7,000m is no kindergarten stuff and the
pilot knows better. If he decides not to fly,
he has good reasons. So we had the choice
to either keep faith that the next days flight
would not be cancelled, or fall back on Plan B
prepared by Ahsan.
We unanimously decided upon Plan B. It
consisted of driving eight to nine hours to
Naran, in the Kaghan Valley, via Abbottabad
(the last known residence of Osama Bin
Laden), Mansehra and Balakot. Quickly, we
chartered a minibus and hit the road, still
Way to Makra Mountain
The valley
under uninterrupted rain. At 6:30pm we

arrived at the hotel in Khanian at an altitude
of 1800m with miles and miles of winding
mountain road behind us, some 28 hours after
leaving home. The least we could say is that
we deserved the right to visit the place... and
the right to a shower and a bed! The wooden
construction nestled in the trees on the flank
of the hill was really nice and far better than
the many soulless hotels we passed on the
way.
The third day of our trip was the first with
any real activity. We headed to Shogran
at 2,350m where we dropped the bus for
antique Jeeps that made my 1989 Land Rover
look like it was just out of the showroom. The
Jeeps took us to the mountain village of Paye
(3,070m) via a track that would deter many offroading enthusiasts.I hope that one day I can
come back with my own car. After waiting for
the rain to (nearly) stop with a cup of tea, we
started walking and horse riding for some of
us through the meadows towards the base
camp (3,245m) of Makra Peak, climbing to
3,885m. We were rewarded by a small piece
of blue sky, the first one since we left Dubai,
before we needed to revert to the Jeeps to go
back to the valley before dark. The track was
rock n roll enough in daylight! On the way
Waterfall
back to the hotel,we stopped at one of the

numerous places selling trout from the river.
We discovered the trout masala - fried to the
bones like most of the food in the region, but
nevertheless a very good and very local dish.
Wereturned in time to enjoy a hot shower with
firewood-heated water.
On the second day on site, we headed
north towards Naran, from where we hiked
to Saif-ul-Muluk Lake. This is a very deep
valley where the ridges sometimes culminate
2,000m above the river. Villages are scattered along the river and settlements cover
the flanks to cultivate the small terrace fields
patiently built on the steep sides. The night
had been windy, and as a result there was not
one cloud in the sky. The neighbouring peaks
were covered in fresh snow, which gave beautiful views to be enjoyed only by us, since the
driver had to pay attention to the rocks and
mudslides that covered the road due to the
rain of the past few days.
Once in Naran, at 2,475m, we started our
hike towards the lake at 3,245m. What a
change after all the fog and rain of the day
before! They had built a new road for 4x4
vehicles to reach the lake, yet we followed
the old one. We went through a village
where cinder blocks, corrugated steel sheets
and plastic covers had not yet replaced the
traditional building materials like stone and
wood; something that is becoming rare on
the planet. The only hints that we were in the
21st century were the small solar panels on the
roofs. We covered the distance and the elevation in twoand a half hours and were rewarded
with an amazing view. Saif-ul-Maluk with this
weather is just out of this world and that view
justified the trip. You wouldnt be honest if
you told me that this is the image you have
in mind when you think of Pakistan. We spent
the afternoon there instead of trekking further.
Down in Naran, we were asked by the police
to go back to our hotel. They seemed a bit
nervous to have foreigners in their area of
responsibility, as they wanted to spend a quiet
Eid. We were done anyway.
On the next morning, before hitting the
Careful on the road
road back, we walked for just one hour along

the river, wishing an Eid Mubarak to all of the
villagers going to the mosque. It is always a
nice atmosphere to experience, wherever you
are in the Muslim world. On the way back to
Islamabad, our driver invited us for lunch at his
place, for us to experience Pakistani hospitality in his majilis. The mutton (sacrificed in the
morning) and rice served was one of the best
dishes we had during this trip.
All in all, the trip was a great way to discoverthe hidden gems of Pakistan whilst staying
safe, and was far from the preconceived ideas
that the likes of CNN can give of this country.
Thanks again Ahsan for organising the trip and
lets hope we can do Plan A soon after winter!
Patrice (and Marcel of course)

Minimal bridge
OUTDOORUAE
33
LIFESTYLE
Health
Powerhouse
How to Start a Small Garden or Simply Dust

Off Your Window Sill and Get Sprouting!
Load up on depleted nutrients after hot summer!

Words + Photos By: Ivana Chiles
Dear gardeners, outdoor enthusiasts and all those of you who

find growing your own veggies and
herbs exciting! Somehow, summer
felt extremely long this year for me.
I am not sure if it was due to lots of
changes going on. I quit my old job
in order to embark on a much more
rewarding path in my life.
While I totally agree that we are nowhere
near reasonable temperatures, there is
already so much you can do to prepare your
garden (or window sill) for the next season.
If you have been travelling a lot or not
getting enough air outdoors, your body is
probably in great need of nutrients. For me
personally, there is nothing more rewarding
than watching things grow and participating
in the wonders of life through gardening.
We should all find something which brings
peace to our souls. Many of us have lost
connection with our bodies and gardening
is one of thosethings that give an opportunity to slow down, take a deep breath and
reconnect through nature.
Kick off your shoes and get barefoot. Stick
your head out in the sun for some of that
depleted Vitamin D and enjoy the healing
energy throughout your body.
Turn your husbands office or your dining table into a greenhouse! Get your kids
involved. Give them responsibility for their
own plants. Start growing love, passion and
appreciation for nature in them from a very
Always make sure you get whole family involved!
early age. It will keep them occupied and

hopefully out of trouble. Start with easy
and fastgrowing plants and later include
slower ones. This will build patience in them,
perhaps something they will say thank you
for later in life. And dont forget about your
pets! Your cat will adore some organically
grown catnip which will clean her intestines
in the most natural way! Experiment with
new plants! I found organic luffa plant seeds
on one of my trips to United States. Just
imagine the idea of having your own bath
sponges! I have to say, so far it has been
one of the fastest growing and most beautiful seeds I have planted.
Start sowing now! There are certain herbs
and vegetables which simply take longer to
grow. You want to enjoy crunchy peppers
no later than December, and to name a few
more, tomatoes,aubergines,courgettes and
herbs should be considered at this time of
the year. This year we decided to take full
control of the soil, because the nutritional
content of your veggies is solely dependent
on the quality of soil.
We were total beginners last year, but

because we learned from our mistakes, we
wanted to make surethat we enjoy our veggies throughout winter until the beginning
Always read instructions and make sure

you label your pots before sowing!
of summer. Peppers especially take about

two weeks to sprout. Thats why September
is the perfect time to start.Get yourself to
Dubai Garden Centre, stock up on small
pots, trays and of course, if you havent
done so,good quality seeds. We are going
90% organic this year. The remaining 10% is
purely because I was unable to get certain types of seeds in the bio-version. Our
regular juicing and other organic wastemade
several good batches of Bokashi. We have
lately checked our soil, which has been resting throughout summer. I asked my husband
to turn it over and was absolutely delighted
to come across several worms, something
every gardener wishes for!
Why are Worms so Precious?
The fact you have worms in your compost

indicates that the soils acidity is neutral to
alkaline. Half a kilo of worms feed on 0.25kg
of organic waste a day, turning it into nutritious composting soil.Some studies say that
one worm can eat up to 30 times her own
weight a day. Another benefit is that worms
create a net of tunnels making space for
plants roots and allowing them to access
waterand oxygen easily. Interestingly, if you
cut the worm in two, it will grow back. However, should you accidentally cut it exactly
in the middle, then it will die. Handle that
shovel with care and you will not regret!
Ivana planting first flowers after long and hot Dubai summer
Instructions
Fill up your pots with a mix of potting soil

and sand (preferably red sand). You can
also sprinkle your soil with some Epsom
salt (magnesium sulphate) for some extra
minerals. This will encourage germination,
increase chlorophyll production and improve
phosphorus and nitrogen uptake. Read
the instructions on the seed bags carefully. Some seeds are meant to be loosely
sprinkledon the top (most herbs) while
peppers, tomatoes or cucumbers should go
about two centimetres deep intothe soil.
You willneed to use two to three seeds of
cucumbers to be planted together, while
with peppers or tomatoes you would only
want to put one seed in each pot. Dont
be surprised if you find six tiny seeds of
peppers in one large bag of pepper seeds!
With time you will learn how to protect and
Four kinds of basil seeds after only one week
Sprouting seeds took over dining table for some time
Herbs like basil, thyme and rosemary take about

3 months to grow, so start sowing now!
Dont be afraid to experiment. Ivana is growing luffa this year
collect your own seeds from your next crop,

which will save you money and give you a
real sense ofachievement. I will guide you
through the process of seed collection and
storage when the time is right.
Practical Pieces of Advice
Be organised and methodical. Always label

all of the pots first, before placing the seeds
in. I have, at one too many times, got so excited that by the time I have finished sowing
and diligently covered all of the tiny seeds
with soil, I wasnt sure what I sowed where.
Just moreproof of how I can get carried
away with the gardening business!
Make sure your pots have holes, so that
the excess water can drain out freely. Do
not water too much! Keep your seeds in
dark and cooler places in the beginning (4-5
days) and when they start sprouting, move
them to a sunnier area. Without sun they will
become weak, just like when we tend to become sick in winter when we lack Vitamin D
from the sun. Make sure the soil never gets
dry as this will destroy the seeds.
Four different kinds of basil
Sprouting jar with seeds after 48 hours
All you need to do now is give your plants

love and care. Treat them like you would
your family and friends. Be responsible. If
one day you decide you cannot look after
them anymore, your plants can become
beautiful thoughtful gifts. You can also join
gardening communities in your area,where
gardeners often swap extra plants and share
their knowledge.
Your plants will be good to go outside
sometime around mid-October (in Dubai).
We have just started working on some more
raised beds. Thanks to my skillful husband
we are hoping to extend our gardening
space and enjoy a wider variety of fruits
and vegetables this year. If you are keen to
learn more, you can always visit my website at www.ivanahph.com where I will be
sharing some more useful tips and hints. In
the meantime, make a detailed plan about
where you will grow what. Companion gardening is a useful tool for any gardener.
Just like you might not get on with
OUTDOORUAE
35
Ivana checking soil after summer
certain people, the same rule applies in the

plant kingdom. Some plants grow better
next to each other while others can provide them with toxins emitting from their
roots. You want to get it just right! A typical
example of excellent companions would be
tomato, basil and marigold. All three love
and support each other through the root
system while marigold also attracts bees and
keeps other bugs away.
Do You Find Gardening too

Challenging? Get Sprouting!
Maybe you find gardening too hard and

want to enjoy the spectrum of vitamins and
minerals within days? The answer is, start
sprouting! While your seeds are happily
working in your pots, you can take control
of your health by growing sprouts in the
meantime. All you need to do is dust off the
window sill and get either a germinating jar
(the easiest option), sprouting bag or sprout

the seeds in soil.
Why Sprouting?
Nature provides us with everything we

need to safeguard and maintain our health.
Sprouts are nutritional powerhouses. They
are the healthiest, most nutrient dense food
on the planet and you can grow them within
days. They require no special knowledge,
are inexpensive and I personally like to add
them in our salads or on our sandwiches.
They contain about 100 times more natural
enzymes than raw fruits and vegetables. The
vitamin, mineral, enzyme and fibre content
goes up when the seedsare sprouted!
The best seeds to sprout are organic. The
most popular are alfalfa, sunflower, pea or
watercress, but you can sprout anything!
Just make sure, that you rinse your seeds at
least twice a day if a sprouting bag or ger-
Selection of organic seeds of Ivanas favourite crops
minating jar is used. Growing your sprouts in

soil largely decreases the chances of fungus
contamination and you can also juice these
sprouts.
Dr. Joseph Mercola, one of my favourite
holistic health experts, recommends sprouting in trays with soil. You should soak seeds
for the first eight hours. For the next one to
two days you should keep rinsing them until
small sprouts appear. When planted in soil
he suggests placing a heavy tile on top for
the first three days. By applying force, the
seeds will have to exert much more power
to push through towards the sun. Therefore they become much stronger and their
nutritional value grows exponentially. Isnt
that amazing? If you feel a little tired and
sense that you need to load up on nutrients,
then take your health in your hands and start
sprouting now! The time commitment is
absolutely minimal compared to the health
benefits you will reap from sprouts.
Have a wonderful October and happy gardening!

Breakfast sandwich with sprouted watercress
We love our herbs on organic bread with

homemade kefir and chia cream cheese
36
OUTDOORUAE
Watercress and alfalfa garnish on kefir cottage cheese
Kale and alfalfa sprouts make delicious,

nutrient packed garnish for your lunch
You can find some more tips and links on

my website www.ivanahph.com or follow
me on my Health Powerhouse Facebook
page for some more gardening tips,
delicious recipes and natural cosmetics.
Ivana Chiles has been living in the
UAE for almost 15 years. Her passions
are nutrition, healthy cooking and
gardening. Ivana is a certified health
coach, member of American Association
of Drugless Practitioners and also a keen
outdoor enthusiast.
Habitually healthy
Paleo Lambs Fry and Bacon
So how do you get it?
One of the most effective ways to increase

and promote production of Glutathione in
our body is by consuming raw whey protein
from grass-fed cows, produced under low
temperatures, so of course in turn, eating
red meat from grass-fed cows is your next
best option; but you can take it one step
further, and eat organ meats from any grassfed animal. The alpha lipoic acid, found in
the organ meat has been proven to boost,
support and regenerate glutathione in the
body.
Heres a simple recipe to assist you in
incorporating organ meat into your diet.
Lambs fry and bacon is a beautiful breakfast
staple that I even enjoyed as a child, this
one has a little twist to it, enjoy the meal,
and of course enjoy the many benefits of
glutathione!
Method:
Words + Recipe By: Chef Patrick Ikinofo
Whats up guys? This month

we will take a look at protein and
the natural sources on where to
get it, I will share with you a recipe
from my childhood and a few other
tips along the way. Dont forget to
check us out down at the Bistro
either.
A core part of any good diet is protein.
Its the staple of fitness fanatics, bodybuilders and gym junkies worldwide, and
is synonymous with health and wellbeing;
and while many know what it can do for our
bodies think muscle growth and repair,
satiation etc, very few truly know why or
how, which has led to a retardation of what
is accepted as a good form of protein.
Ill let you in on a little secret the performance and quality of any protein, depends
solely on its ability to increase your glutathione levels.
If youve been paying attention and are a
raw diet buff, youll know all about glutathione. Glutathione is found in every cell
in our body. It is one of the most potent
antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and
preventing cellular damage. If were not
looking after ourselves and feeding our
bodies with glutathione rich foods, we can
quickly become depleted, and thats a very
bad thing.
Unlike other antioxidants found in our
body, Glutathione works at an intracellular

level; and without it, other amino acids and
vitamins like selenium, C and E, cannot do
their jobs effectively. Its a de-toxer and
immune booster, an anti-ager and disease
fighter, and it shies away from production
when the body is under-nourished and
over-stressed.
Ingredients:
500g lamb liver

200g veal bacon
1 onion
4 cloves garlic
Balsamic vinegar
Maple syrup
Arrowroot powder
1. Place lamb liver in a small bowl, sprinkle

with sea salt, cover with water and refrigerate for a few hours.
2. Peel skin off lambs fry and remove any
other pieces of tissue. Slice and lightly coat
with the arrowroot. I normally like to cut
any long strips in half again so theyre bite
size.
3. Remove excess fat and rind from the
bacon and chop coarsely. Leave a bit of
streaky fat on the bacon, it adds to the
flavour.
4. Saut bacon and onion and fry around
8-10 minutes over medium to high temperature until onion is soft and bacon is
fairly well cooked but not crisp.
5. Add lambs fry and lightly fry a few
minutes turning often to brown evenly, you
dont need to cook it through at this stage.
6. Add balsamic vinegar and maple and
bring to a gentle boil, reduce temperature
to a simmer and continue to cook for 20
minutes stirring every 5 minutes or so. It
may take a little more time, but you want a
fairly thick gravy that runs a little slowly off
a spoon.
7. Serve with mashed sweet potatoes or its
also good re-heated and served on toast
for breakfast.
The Cycle Bistro

GPS location:
Latitude:
N 25 02.792
Longitude:
E 055 14.384
Phone:
04 425 6555
OUTDOORUAE
37
LIFESTYLE
2015, Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved
Behind the Glitz of the High Life

Photos By: Universal Studios
This film begins a new column

that we would like to call Outdoor
Flicks. It is a place where you can
find our take on films that have
inspired us to spend our lives outdoors or give us the proper motivation to get moving. What you will
see here in the following issues will
be films both past and present
- carefully dissected to show what
one could expect from seeing them;
be it a warning, an idea or something that touches the heart.
Our first film involves a topic that has become somewhat romanticised by the media,
spawning various films throughout the ages,
but one that hasnt been properly depicted
to show the realities that climbers experience
the 2015 film simply called Everest. We
had the opportunity to view Everest in advance during Sheikh Mohammed Al Thanis
private screening of the film to honor the
regions Everest summiteers over the years. It
was held at Novo Cinemas in Dubai Festival
City on 16th of September.
It must be said that a film about Mt. Everest
can either be one of two things a historical
38
OUTDOORUAE
piece or a highly romanticised film which is not

new to the world framed by the camera. Most
of the time, the majority of us see climbers already at the summit, happy and exuberant as
they finally reach their destination. We dont
often see photos of them having a hard time
when something goes wrong or images that
capture the time it takes for them to go from
one camp to another. We usually only get to
see the picture perfect moments. However,
this film tends to break the mould as it depicts
the tragic fate that some of the climbers met
during the 1996 Everest Expedition. It shows
the places that rarely get featured on other
films, such as the resting places of those who
failed to summit or the various challenges that
each and every climber faced as they made
their way to the roof of the world, where any
miscalculation could result in disaster.
The film strikes a superb balance between
scenes of those on the mountain, those at the
camp and those of the climbers relatives in
their respective countries. The film highlights
how relationships are challenged in the form
of Rob Hall (Jason Clarke) spending his last
moments on the line with his wife Jan Arnold
(Keira Knightley). Another seemingly interesting subplot is that of Beck Weathers (John
Brolin) and his wife Peach (Robin Wright),
as they find a semblance of togetherness
thanks to the mountain. But one important
scene early on in the film shows a truth unlike
any other. As a conversation starts in a local
Kathmandu cafe (the scenes of Kathmandu
are not to be missed) the audience gets to
witness various climbers and their reasons for
wanting to climb Everest. They include the
Seven Summits reason, but what hit close to
home is that of Doug Hansens (John Hawkes)
reason: He just wanted to show everybody
that a normal man could climb Everest. In that
scene he gave truth to every single mountaineer. We all want to achieve something to
prove to everyone that no matter who we are
we can do it.
It is a film that rings truth all over and this I
believe makes Everest a must-watch film for
Film: Everest (2015)

Director: Baltasar Kormkur
Starring: Jason Clarke, Jake Gyllenhaal, Josh
Brolin, Robin Wright, John Hawkes, Keira
Knightley, Emily Watson and Naoko Mori
climbers and other outdoor aficionados. Its

not a brutal reality check but its an enlightening viewpoint on the life and times of those
who wanted to summit Mt. Everest. Even
those that were present in the cinema summiteers Sheikh Mohammed Al Thani and
Suzanne Al Houby to name a few - found
the film to be a reliving of their time on the
mountain. If you want a film that deals with
Mt. Everest from a different perspective, then
this is the one to watch.
FS260-PRO S/S JERSEY II

Packed with high performance features to keep you dry and
comfortable whether you are racing or just training.
+ Supportive athletic fit

+ Triple rear mesh pocket system
+ Silicone hem grippers
All Endura cycling apparel available at

ADVENTURE HQ and YALLAOUTDOOR.COM
Distributor of awesome outdoor brands. www.globalclimbing.com
Natural History
Outside the Classroom

Homeschooling in the UAE
LIFESTYLE
Words + Photos By: Dan Wright
Surprisingly, the United Arab

Emirates has a lot of homeschooled
children and it wasnt until I started
looking into this area that I found
several reasons why this is the
case.
Some families homeschool for religious
reasons, others because they have children
with specific educational requirements
that are not catered for by schools. Some
because the fees are too high and there is
no free education and others because they
move around so much that it is very disruptive to keep changing schools and social
groups. Whatever the reasons, there are no
laws against home schooling your child or
anyrequirement that your childmust attend
state or private schools, so many people
choose home schooling.
Homeschooling has a wide range of
benefits for the student, such as allowing an
individual who works quickly to go through
chapters in a textbook at their own pace
without being held back by the pace of a
whole class. The same goes for students
who need to take more time. It allows a student to complete a normal week of lessons
in one or two days which then gives them
time to pursue other vocational studies that
interest them more. Consequently, by the
age of 16 a homeschooled student will often
have not just the normal academic qualifications, but will also be qualified through
a young apprentice scheme or in a field of
expertise that most young people wouldnt
achieve until they leave High School.
A big part of Home Schooling is that it
allows students to choose their own path,
40
OUTDOORUAE
and a large percentage of students choose

vocational, hands-on, experiential learning
to do this. Field studies are usually a part
of most curriculums in schools but due to
time constraints and funding it may only be
feasible to take students off on field trips
once a term. But for homeschooled students
its often just a case of getting a parent to
take them or riding a bike or taking public
transport which means its easy to go out
and follow a wide range of subjects through
field trips.
My personal interest is of course in teaching Environmental Science and related
subjects. As part of this, I have been taking
various homeschooled students out to
study Earth Sciences and the natural world
around us. Ben and Laura in Fujairah are
both homeschooled and, with their mum
guiding their learning, we have managed to
incorporate a few fun adventure activities
like climbing and wadi exploring alongside
their studies to bring the subject to life in a
meaningful way that is easy to relate to. This
is made much easier by the fact that there
are only a few of us to transport in the car
and that we can go out at any time without
having to worry about missing school. Laura
and Ben both regulate their own timetable and are responsible in part for their
own learning, more so than they would be
in school. This means that they can work
quickly and efficiently and then have more
time to pursue their own interests as well.
Ben is an efficient computer programmer
at just 12 years old and his older sister
Laura is devoted to social programs. At 15,
she has already been to India to work on a
charity program and regularly runs philanthropic and community support programs in
Fujairah. These are achievements that most
young people their age just dont have time

to do.
So what else can a field studies program
be used for and how can it enhance your
curriculum? Well, homeschooled students
mostly follow programs online or from books
that result in mainstream qualifications.
These require the student to work towards
completion by acquiring credits for different
activities that lead to the end unit. A student
working towards a Key Stage 4 qualification, otherwise known in the British curriculum as G.C.S.Es (which are completed
in Grades 10 and 11) might need 20 credits
in Geography in practical experience. This
could be earned by attending a field studies
course as a residential away from home in
which the student not only learns about their
subject but also gains invaluable soft skills in

socialisation with other teens their own age.
There are several organisations in the UAE
and GCC that offer field studies in residential camps and these are a great way for
students to learn and have fun at the same
time. A typical day might consist of taking
lessons in kayaking before heading out with
a teacher to explore the mangrove habitats
on the coastline and learn all about their
niche in the ecology of the UAE. Another
example would be a group learning to navigate then going out (under remote supervision) to hike a wadi system in the mountains
of Ras Al Khaimah whilst undertaking a
project to count the different species of
birds they encounter on the trip.
The UAE has several different Homeschool
groups that are very useful to both the
parents of home schooled students and the
students themselves. They provide a forum
to share best practice, teaching tips and
resources. Many of these groups meet on
social media like Facebook and are easy to
join. A few examples are:
Dubai + Northern Emirates Home Schooling
UAE Homeschoolers
UAE Homeschooled Teens Group
HS - K12 Free Resources

Al Ain Homeschoolers
These forums advertise camps and field
studies programs that are run especially for
homeschooled teens which normally include
an academic syllabus that can count as credits towards a home school curriculum.
Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of a
field studies program is that you can send
your children away to learn about Environmental Science for a week, but within the
course other aspects such as Languages,
Maths, Physics and a wide range ofsubjects
can also be addressed. This cross disciplinary teaching approach is very common to
homeschooled students and they thrive from
learning in this way.
You can also go away with you and your
family for a weekend and include an element of learning in your trip. You can easily
book a short break at an adventure camp
and there are plenty of these in the northern
emirates like RAK. One big advantage of
a trip like this is that you can take children
who are very young with you and maybe
two or three families can go away together.
The adventure centres provide activities,
supervision, food, safety, accommodation
and learning programs and its a fun way
for the whole family to be involved in your
childrens education.
If you need advice on homeschooling or
family education programs in the outdoors
in the UAE then take a look at the FB groups
listed in this article or drop us an email at
the magazine and well be happy to answer
your questions.
About the Author: Dan Wright is a

freelance Wilderness Guide in the UAE
and Asia, prior to that he worked for an
Emirati Citizenship program. He has a
degree in Environmental Science. Dan
has been on several International wildlife and exploration expeditions with UK
Radio stations and writes for a range
of publications in Asia and the Middle
East. His wife is the former Nepal National Mountain Bike Champion, Nirjala
Tamrakar (See OutdoorUAE, issue44,
page 8). They live in Fujairah with their
son Percy and spend all their spare time
exploring the UAE!
OUTDOORUAE
41
LIFESTYLE
First Love
You always remember your first love: climbing
has been a constant in my life for six decades
Words + Photos By: Stephen Turner
This isnt walking, this is climbing, pronounced my first serious

girlfriend, who was later to become my wife. I turned round in
despair. We had walked only 500
metres from the car park to commence our first hike together on
Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons
in South Wales. With encouragement and promised bribes, we
strode the steep grassy ridge and
continued upwards to the summit.
The clear summers day afforded
beautiful views across the verdant
landscape, criss-crossing fields
wrapping small copses, sheep dotted everywhere. It made the hike
satisfying and acknowledgement
was begrudgingly given, Yes, she
enjoyed it, while munching a
sandwich at the top.
At an early age I would climb anything.

Going upstairs to bed would feature different routes without touching the floor: door
frames, handles, skirting boards and banister railsall served as hand and footholds.
The local trees were fair game as we dared
each other to climb ever higher.
North Face. We saw a teenage Leo Houlding at a Birmingham international climbing

competition, pausing halfway up an E7 to
rotate his baseball cap before completing
the climb. Twenty years later, he is a global
superstar making and appearing in his own
award-winning climbing films.
Not being particularly academic, my

only first at school was for climbing. A
newly-built grammar school had an indoor
climbing wall (yes, really) on which I spent
all my Physical Education lessons (are they
still called that?) climbing routes of increasing difficulty. No one else was interested so
I just soloed.To my amazement the teacher
gave me top marks for skill and effort,
above all the football and badminton playing kids.
I hoovered up all the books. Climbing
and mountaineering produces the richest
literature of any sport. The history of first
ascents, tales of derring-do and controversy, the politics involved, the characters
of the protagonists, the evolution of tactics
and climbing ethics, let alone the travelogues; the excitement, adventure and
storytelling far surpass other sports.
When I was twelve, a student teacher
took a group of pupils to a photo-lecture
from a Brit who just returned from climbing in Yosemite. Seated on the second row,
I stared up at his black and white slides
of fantastic 3,000 foot granite structures,
swearing that one day I would visit. It
would be 27 years before I kept my promise. Since then we have heard most of the
foremost climbers talk about their personal
firsts: Chris Bonington, Dougal Haston,
Don Whillans and Doug Scott on their huge
expeditions. Joe Tasker (my wifes favourite) and Peter Boardman on their alpine
fast and light style. Touching the Void
authors Joe Simpson and Simon Yates gave
different accounts of their episode in Latin
America. More recently, Ueli Steck proved
to be a humorous and talented speaker,
describing his speed ascents of the Eiger
Work/life balance may interrupt your first

love but never kill it. A six-month pregnant
wife enjoyed a climbing holiday in Austria.
The Brecon Beacons were tackled again in
winter with a three-month old son swaddled in clothes. A baby needs a beach
holiday, so trips to North Devon ensued.
It just so happened that it featured superb
rock cliffs; so it was sandcastles by day, and
climbing by evening. A significant local
crag was Lower Sharpnose Point, where
fins of rock jut 200 feet into the sea from
the cliffs. 200 feet high but only three feet
wide; amazing geological rock structures to
climb.
Our first new house was conveniently
located by a new indoor climbing wall and
new friends were made. Weekends were
spent on trips to the Lakes, Wales, and the
Wye Valley. Early Sunday morning dashes
were planned with the target time of 100
minutes to cover the 100 miles down the
M4; probably not possible nowadays with
the speed cameras. On one trip, the four of
us were exactly 20, 30, 40 and 50 years of
age. My first VS route was called Freedom.
I still remember the awkward mantle shelf
halfway up. Favourites at Stanage Edge
included the Right and Left Unconquerable, challenges kept to the end of the
day when tired bodies made them appear
harder, friends barracking from below if any
wobbly legs began playing the banjo.
Its this camaraderie that elevates climbing
from other sports - so much positivity and
encouragement in competing with the rock.
Time passes and a neighbours son who
asked me to take him climbing as a ten
year old is now a married man with his
own children. He still fondly remembers

our days on the crags.Climbing trips to the
Alps, including the iconic Matterhorn with
Andy Cave, engraved memories deep into
the soul - now selfies on Facebook digitise
them. Mountain biking and skiing became
new pursuits as climbing took a back seat
after another house move.
Then, several years later, a career move
brought us to Dubai and a new best friend
took me to Jebel Qihwi. Rawdah, Asfar,
Sumanji and others follow. Scrabbling up
the Qihwi chimney re-vitalised old desires.
A suggestion to visit the Dorrell wall was
arranged and so a new chapter of climbing
life begins. What hasnt changed are the
rock shoes they still hurt.
A chance trip to Rock Republic and I
arrive late for a bouldering competition. I
seeked to participate in the old and rusty
category but am thrown into the expert
categoryerr no. My limbs have stiffened.
My flexibility has gone. My footwork is
clumsy and my fingers no longer have their
strength. The grades of the climbing routes
are unfathomable. I need a translation to
old-school grades. I am sweat-sodden
within ten minutes even though the room
is air-conditioned. I dont care. I am having
great fun. If people see me grinning too
much they may get scared... think Jack
Nicholson in The Shining.
The standard of climbing by competitors
is outstanding as I watch East Europeans,
locals and Brits climb high-standard test
pieces. Yet, at the other end of the scale,
a young girl is shepherded by her father in
her first climbing competition. A tomboy,
she is climbing well-above her experience
and joyously completes all her chosen
routes.
I reflect on the age ranges,the different
nationalities, the competitive camaraderie,
the banter, the supportive encouragement,
and it stirs memories. Ive made most of my

best friends through climbing (or mountain
biking) and introduced many people to the
sport. There is also an intellectual aspect
that people dont realise. The planning of
an expedition,the sequence of manoeuvres
to overcome a crux section of rock, the inspiring literature, the confidence-building,
the cross-political divide through a shared
interest, the remote places. Its a truly wonderful sport.
At nine years old Susan Stock held my
hand and planted a wet kiss on my cheek
for my very first kiss. Can you remember
your first love? Will your passion still be
alive in your seventieth decade?
PRODUCTS
A ROUND-UP OF QUALITY PRODUCTS AVAILABLE RIGHT HERE IN THE UAE
Wanabee Foehn 55 Litres + 10 Litres

Trekking Backpack
349 AED/QAR, 37.9 OMR
Available exclusively at all GO Sport stores

A great trekking/hiking pack. Suitable for short weekend hiking
trips. 65 litre total capacity.
Wanabee Atacama 6 Tent


Six-person tunnel tent, ideal for a weekend in the desert with
the whole family.
Features
Dimensions: L 420 x W 210 x H 200 cm
Weight: 15.05kg
Wanabee Laki Light 10 Sleeping Bag
Wanabee Gobi 3+ Tent

A light and compact three-person tent, perfect for weekends
away in the desert. A waterproof cover keeps you dry, even if
the humidity jumps or the dew settles.
A great lightweight sleeping bag, ideal for hiking or trekking.

Ideally designed for cooler evenings in the desert, comfortable
at 10 degrees.
Features
Dimensions: 215 x 80 x 55cm
Weight: 920 g
Comfort Temperature: 10c
100% Polyester
44
OUTDOORUAE
Features
Dimensions: L 300 x W 125 x H 180 cm
Weight: 3.75kg
Why You Need GTLS

The completely self-powered 24 hour
illumination technology. GTLS (Gaseous Tritium
Light Source) is the most reliable form
of illumination utilised in watches. On this page
you will find the key facts about GTLS and why
we use it in all of our watch models.
The Science Behind GTLS
Tritium, also known as super heavy hydrogen, was first discovered by Ernest Rutherford, ML Oliphant and Paul Harteck in
1934.
Tritium emits electrons through beta
decay and when these electrons interact
with a phosphorous material, a fluorescent
light is created that can last up to 20 years.
When this tritium-powered illumination is
sealed inside a glass tube, it is known as a
GTLS (Gaseous Tritium Light Source) which
is up to 100 times brighter over a long period than any comparable technology.
To produce a GTLS vial, glass is lined
with phosphorescent material, then filled
and pressurised by a machine with gaseous
tritium and sliced into segments by a laser
beam to be sealed hermetically.
Inside the vial, the electrons emitted by
the tritium gas excites the phosphor to give
off a cold, continuous light. GTLS can be
created in different colours; generally green
is perceived by the human eye as the
brightest colour.
Based on green (100%), the brightest
output of the other colours is as follows;
ice blue 60%, white 60%, orange 40%. Blue
GTLS, is often used in diving watches as

it remains visible at up to 60m/187 feet in
depth longer or deeper than any other
colour.
T25 vs T100 Illumination
the idea of which is better is simply a

choice of preference and taste.
If you have any concerns about the safety
of GTLS technology, the electron emitted
by tritium is so low in energy that it is unable to penetrate the human skin.
It has also been shown that consuming
1 banana every other day causes the same
dose as breaking a GTLS equipped watch
(1GBq of activity) and absorbing 100% of
its tritium content.
We offer both T25 and T100 GTLS watches.

The T rating refers to the total watch radiation content which is measured in millicuries.
All watches with a T25 rating contain up
to 25mCi of radiation content
and similarly, watches with a
Available at
T100 rating, contain above
Instagram: @almekshah
25mCi and up to 100mCi.
Whilst there are differences
Facebook: www.facebook.com/almekshah
between the amount of mCi
Mobile:+971 55 9898954
in the T25 and T100 models,
Key Features
All of our watches contain GTLS illumination, providing you with the most reliable illumination available on the market.
l GTLS is a completely safe and reliable form of illumination The electron emitted by tritium is so low in energy that it is unable to penetrate the human skin.
l The Trating relates to the total watch radiation content, measured in
millicuries. We offer both T25 and T100 GTLS watches.
l The GTLS illumination used in Nite Watches is supplied by mb-microtec of Switzerland , the original founders and market leaders of the technology.
l GTLS come in a range of colour variants which are offered by Nite Watches
including green, orange, blue and white.
l GTLS technology does not require
sunlight or any form of external power source in order to operate.
l Superluminova illumination will fade over a short period of time whereas;
GTLS illumination will remain
constant throughout.
l If green is 100% visible to the human eye, then white and ice blue are 60% and
orange is 40%.
l The GTLS glass vials are sealed by specially modulated CO2 lasers.
l
OUTDOORUAE
45
PRODUCTS
Buff National Geographic Iran
Singing Rock Comic Chalk Bag
Available at Ski Dubai, Modells Sporting Goods

and yallaoutdoor.com
Available at Adventure HQ, Rock Republic and yallaoutdoor.com
85 AED
The Original National Geographic Buff is a multifunctional

addition to your wardrobe suitable for all weather conditions
and all seasons. Wear it under your helmet as a liner, on your
wrist as sweatband or around your face for protection. Quality
fabric and amazing new prints will fit perfectly with your active
lifestyle.
95 AED
Large chalk bag with ergonomic shape and unique printing

design.
Features
Ergonomic shape and enough volume for chalking of the
whole hand.
Soft and pleasant to touch corduroy outer fabric, fleece lining
inside.
Dustproof closing system.
Wide elastic brush holder for more comfort when cleaning
holds.
Double loops for stable attachment to the waist belt.
Colour: White with black printing; yellow, blue,

pink lace-webbing
Material: Corduroy, fleece
Guide Tennie Approach Shoe
PARAKITO Band and Clip
Available at Adventure HQ and yallaoutdoor.com
Available at Adventure HQ, GO Sport, Golf House and many

more retailers (store locator at www.mapyr.com)
595 AED
The Guide Tennies hand-ground beveled toe delivers

precision edging power without sacrificing hiking comfort, and
the Stealth C4 outsole guarantees unrivaled traction.
89 AED
Number one natural prevention against mosquito bites,

PARAKITO refillable bands and clips offer a very unique combination: natural ingredients, patented technology, original
designs, with an extremely easy use.
The PARAKITO pellet is soaked with essential oils extracted
from plants selected all over the world. You just have to insert
it in a band or a clip (each one is sold with two pellets) to be
naturally protected against mosquito bites, during 15 days.
PARAKITO is suitable for everyone, because it doesnt
touch the skin. The protection
is optimal under all conditions: sweat, water, hot
and cold environment.
Proven efficiency and
economic, PARAKITO
is THE solution
to stay protected
from insect bites
when doing outdoor activities.
46
OUTDOORUAE
(with 2L Bladder), Fit For Women
Anti-chafe
T R&I E D
TESTED
ODUC
THIS PR
OV
T IS APPR
TDOO
ED BY OU
RUAE
Words By: Tia Jones
I have been running ultras

since 2012 and have used different
types of hydration vests for
running events - ranging from
20km to 162km. All of the vests
that I have tried have been
specifically cut for the female
shape some have been good and
some not so. There also has always
been something missing, so when
I was given the opportunity to test
out the Nathan VaporAiress I was
delighted to give it a go.
Since I moved to Dubai in 2014, it has
taken me some time to get used to the
summer heat and humidity when running
outside as it is pretty difficult - with the
challenge of being able to carry enough
water to last for the duration of your run.
Previous packs I tried had a two litre bladder
with a single pocket in the front of the pack
to hold an additional bottle, allowing you to
carry a maximum of 2.5 litres of fluid.
Sometimes I find that this capacity is not
enough and I risk the chance of running out
of water.
The Nathan VaporAiress is the lightest
womens race vest that I have tried and it
comes in two colours, Cockatoo and
Sparkling Cosmo. Mine is the Sparkling
Cosmo - a beautiful, vivid colour. I was
initially worried about the colour running once
used to hold the bladder firmly in place, while

the rear external shock cord can be pulled
tighter or released depending on your storage
requirements.
the vest got wet, but upon testing it the

colour held firm. Reflective strips run down
the back of the pack which is great when
running at dusk or in the dark.
Hydration
I used the pack on a four-hour training run and

was absolutely delighted with it. I filled the
bladder up to its two-litre capacity and used
two 16oz water bottles in the two front
pockets, giving me a total of three litres of
fluid. I believe this makes this pack stand out
from the rest. It also comes with a magnetic
clip for the hose, which very conveniently clips
onto the opposite side of the vest making it
easy to access and use.
Storage
I used the two side stretch pockets fitted with

zips to store my gels, but I could have also
used the two front pockets. The wipe clean
surface of the front pocket is fantastic for the
storage of sticky empty gels, so you dont
have to worry about residual gel making your
pockets all gummy and tacky. There is plenty
of storage in the front of the pack as well as
at the back. The zipped back compartment
can store anything from additional clothing to
gloves, headlamps etc. What is great
about this compartment is that the zip runs
vertically down the back of the pack allowing
you to easily reach in and grab your kit. The
bladder compartment is divided into two: one
for the bladder and the other can be used for
storage. There is a fitted Velcro strip that is
I used the two

side stretch
pockets fitted
with zips to
store my gels
What I like especially about this pack is the

binding. It is very soft to the touch and is very
comfortable when running. Most importantly,
it does not chafe. I love the stretch mesh
pockets which expand a lot to accommodate
gels, bars and any food you typically use on a
long run. Nathan has created a superb pack.
However, there is one area that I think would
further improve this great product. I found
out on my run that the material used for the
binding below the side pockets stretched
laterally too much, which does not allow the
bottom strap to be sufficiently tightened
causing the pack to bounce a little. I feel this
binding should be made of none-stretch
material which would still allow for expansion
of the pockets, but would stop the stretch
and allow the pack to fit more snugly.
Overall, I found the cut of the pack to be
very comfortable, allowing free movement
of my arms. The colour will really appeal to
women who like bright, vivid colours. It ticks
all the boxes in terms of weight, comfort and
storage. I will have many happy hours
wearing this pack in the future and highly
recommend the Nathan VaporAiress 7L.
Here are some of the selling points of this pack:
Weight: 9.3oz/264g (weight includes bladder)
Storage capacity: 7 litres without the bladder
and 5 litres with the bladder
Cut specifically to fit the female form
Over-the-shoulder load lifters to keep
the water and gear close to the body
for maximum no-bounce comfort
Body-mapped, super-breathable materials
for maximum comfort
Equipped with a 2L bladder with quick-release
valve
Two easy-access front bottle pockets
Side-stretch mesh pockets fit most smartphones
Front right stretch mesh stash pocket holds
several gels
Front left pocket with wipe clean
surface for easy storage of gel empties
Soft-touch, no-chafe elastic perimeter binding
Rear external shock cord for increased capacity
Available in XS, S/M and L/XL
PRODUCTS
DJI Phantom 3 4K
Woo Kiteboard Sensor
Available at all Adventure HQ stores
Take to the sky and capture your world in beautiful 4K HD. The
Phantom 3 is an easy to use, fully integrated package with an
intelligent system that helps you fly. Even when flying up to 1.2
miles (2km)* away, built-in Lightbridge technology gives you
complete control over your Phantom 3 and an immersive, live
HD view of everything below. Further adding a new dimension
to your experience, automatic video editing software and
livestreaming capabilities let you share what you see instantly.
Simply clip the sensor onto your board and go ride. The WOO
tracks every jump, including jump height, airtime, and more!
WOO connects wirelessly with your iPhone to reveal the details
of your session. Break down each jumps height and airtime,
plus total number of jumps and max height. Leave your mark
on the global feed. Add a session and explore riders around
the world boosting at their favorite spots. See how your riding
stacks up in your region and worldwide.
5,700 AED
995 AED
Its time to show kiteboarders worldwide what youve got. Be a

part of the evolution and start riding with WOO today!
GoPro HERO4 Silver
X-LITE X-802R Ultra Carbon
Available at Al Yousuf Motors across the UAE
Features 1080p60 and 720p120 video, 12MP photos up to 30

frames per second, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and Protune
for photos and video. Waterproof to 131 (40m).
Nolan groups top-of-the-range racing helmet has been further

developed into the latest X-802R Ultra Carbon version with
ultra-light carbon fibre shell. A stunning new helmet that is
gorgeously shaped and extremely lightweight.
1,599 AED
Features
Built-in touch display + video trimming.
Professional video quality.
Fast, powerful photo capture.
New settings for after dark.
Control, view and share with built-in Wi-Fi + Bluetooth.
Auto Low Light mode.
Improved camera control.
48
OUTDOORUAE
2,100 AED
Features
3 outer shell sizes.
Full ventilation system for optimal comfort.
Double D retention system.
Pinlock anti-fog inner visor.
Inner liner which is fully removable and washable and has
been conceived with the best fabrics.
Quick release visor.
PARAKITO, a complete mosquito solution,

from protection to relief, naturally
Special essential oil blends and
patented formulas those are the
secrets that make PARAKITO
products safe and efficient to naturally protect you from mosquitoes or
soothe their bites in case you forgot
your protection.
When it comes to protection, those essential oils are impregnated in pellets or as a gel
in the roll-on and act as a natural repellent,
making body smell hard to be detected by
the biting insects.
But the brand also has a solution for those
who forgot their protection and got bitten
a bite relief gel.
Protecting all family

members in any situation
The PARAKITO pellet is impregnated with

a blend of seven essential oils extracted from
plants. Inserted in an adjustable band or a
clip (each accessory is sold with two pellets).
It naturally protects you from mosquitoes.
This solutions patented technology allows a
constant diffusion of the formula, providing
15 days of protection, during any activity.
Theres nothing simpler or easier.
As the formula is chemical free and the
pellet doesnt come in contact with the skin,
its suitable for everybody, including pregnant
women, young children or individuals susceptible to skin allergies and irritations. The
pellet is even waterproof so no need to take
off the band if you go swimming, canyoning,
canoeing or practising any watersport!
All the accessories come in a range of colours and designs, so why not go for a splash
of colour on your wrist, ankle, belt, bag or
even babys stroller? If you prefer your protection to be discreet, no worries, PARAKITO
can match your style too!
The younger ones and their tiny wrists and

ankles also have their bands now. Theyre
shorter, created with some fun designs
inspired by the sea world, and even an identification label on which parents can write their
phone number in case of an emergency.
Travelling in an infested area? No problem.
The PARAKITO mosquito protection gel
has been formulated for this. Delivered in a
20ml roll-on, for fast and precise application
without spreading, it gives you the possibility
to adjust the lines (and quantity applied) according to infestation level and your sensitivity.
Its efficacy was tested up to five hours in a
laboratory against the Tiger Mosquito (Aedes
albopictus).
Theres also a solution for those

who forgot their protection
Coming in a smaller roll-on (5ml), the bite

relief gel has been formulated especially
to relieve bites from mosquitoes and other
insects as well. The gel application has a
soothing and cooling effect that reduces the
itching sensation.
Paraben free, hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, its as safe as the other
products of the range.
All PARAKITO products are easy and

risk-free to use but their efficacy has also
been proved by tests in different laboratories
or in natural environment in different climates and conditions in the United States,
Europe, Africa and Australia.
Effective, economical, easy to use, natural,
universal, innovative PARAKITO is the
holistic mosquito solution!
The brand PARAKITO is distributed
in more than 30 countries in the world
in Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East
and Central America. The number one
natural mosquito protection in France
and Spain, the refillable bands and clips
of PARAKITO have been a great success since 2008, thanks to a very specific
equation: natural ingredients, a patented
technology, original designs and all that
in a product that is very easy to use.
T R&I E D
TESTED
ODUC
THIS PR
OV
T IS APPR
TDOO
ED BY OU
RUAE
The Tank in Your Pocket:
Words By: Linda Turcerova Delgado

Photos By: Jung Francisco and Pavel Bafeel
Smartphones have become

such a necessity in our lives that
one can hardly spend a couple of
hours without them. With retail
prices increasing with every new
model out there, it makes sense to
protect what is probably your most
expensive investment that you use
every day.
If you travel a lot and you are a regular
sports person, you dont want to carry extra
cameras, cables, charges and cases with
you. You want to travel light. LifeProof offers
a great option a case for your phone with
multiple uses. You can use this as phone
protection in everyday life (in case you are
clumsy like me and drop your phone often)
while adding a few accessories that can
transform your phone into a cool sports
camera.
LifeProof is the company behind this
great idea. They specialise in smartphone
(tablets and pads) protection and that is
basically the only thing they do. At just 35g
in weight and a fit like a glove design,
the phone slips in and settles into the case
without any difficulty. In hand and pocket
though, the package now feels slightly
bulkier. I have gone through many phones
and covers, from functional to bling versions in the past and this was the first time
the cover felt like part of the phone rather
than its bulky winter coat. All ports, buttons
and functionality of my phone were accessible same as without the cover protection
so far so good.
Modularity
What is great about this cover is that it

comes with different Life Active accessories
which give you the possibility to use it for

whatever sport you want.
The bike and bar mount is easy to install one click and its locked in place! The swivel
function makes it easy to adjust the position
and tighten it for the perfect angle. Then
you can ride out while recording action
footage, checking new routes via waterproof
GPS or simply listening to music from your
phone.
The active suction mount meanwhile gives

you the option to attach your smartphone
to the windshield of your car or boat, to
your stand-up paddle board and even your
windsurf board! Basically, you can attach it
to any flat surface. You can use it as a holder
for your GPS navigation through the phone
while driving a car.
Drop Proof
Before testing, I read some reviews on the

cover and came to an interesting comment
that someone had left the phone in the case
on the roof of the car and had driven off and
the phone still survived. With this in mind,
there was nothing holding me back to try
this. We went out during the Eid break and
took a nice long drive to Oman. I left it on
top of my car (as suggested) and drove off
just to see how long I could go until I saw
the phone flying off. Most of you would
relate to this cruel exercise! I found the
phone after approximately 40 metres (still
ringing) in the middle of the road, relatively
unharmed. It is guaranteed for survival from
a drop of two metres. I cannot translate this
into my experiment but the result was most
satisfactory. To the surprise of my colleague
(as the phone was his) it was still working
perfectly fine.
Dirtproof
Plenty of sand dunes later, we arrived at

Asilah, a popular surf spot on the coast of
Oman just below Sur. I kept dropping and
leaving my phone all around the camp site
and burying it in the sand to see how it will
handle the abuse. After half a day of sandy
hide and seek (oh yeah, I forgot a couple
of times where I buried it so I fished out the
trowel for the rescue) I gave it a rest and
opened the cover to see not one grain of
sand inside. Sand is a major issue wherever you may be in the Middle East. My
smartphone being safe while being active
outdoors scores high points on my scale.
Waterproof
Claiming one hour of safe submerging for

up to two metres, this proved to be a tricky
test in the swell of Asilah. However, I played
with it at a safe distance from the shores.
Again, not only water but also water particles such as salt and micro-abrasive water
solids are dangerous to electronics when
dropped in water. The confidence I had from
the previous days sand test kept me at ease
here; absolutely no water damage whatsoever to the case or my phone. As long as
you keep it sealed as instructed, you can

enjoy watersports such as kayaking or SUP
using the suction mount. All in all, this is a
great solution for an all-in-one smart device.
As a bonus, I felt brave enough to run the
phone through a quick wash cycle (keep it
under 30 degrees without a drop of water).
As expected, the phone was without a drop
of water and working perfectly.
This case is available in over four different
colours. I recommend going for the bright
colours as you would want to see where
you dropped it in the water or between
rocks when hiking or climbing. At just under
350 AED, it may appear a bit pricey but
going without a case and replacing your
smartphone (if it meets a mishap) will set
you back tenfold. It makes perfect sense
to protect one of your most important and
most expensive pieces of technology.
The LifeProof is available at all GO Sport stores.

Item Name
AED/QAR OMR
LifeProof FRE Series iPhone6 Case Black
349
37.9
LifeProof LifeActiv Suction Mount
199
21.6
LifeProof LifeActiv Bike/Bar Mount
199
21.6
LifeProof LifeActiv Multi-Purpose Mount 149
16.2
LifeProof LifeActiv Universal

QuickMount Adaptor for Case
10.8
99
OUTDOORUAE
51
Hit-Air Airbag Jacket

Words by: Jack Moran
Motorcycle riders now

enjoy more choices over the
traditional leather jacket for injury
and weather protection.
Today, technology has evolved into good
quality cloth-based jackets that include
many built-in safety features as standard. In
a top-of-the-line jacket, you expect to get
great styling and colours, complete waterproofing; back; shoulder and elbow padding; removable lining for warm weather
outings; pockets that dont leak; a warm
collar; reflective sections for night riding

and good length at the back. The Japanese
Hit-Air EU jacket, manufactured by Mugen
Denko Co. Ltd , has all of these, plus it
turns into a protective airbag if you come
off your motorcycle. From the original
manufacturers of the airbag jacket, this
could be the biggest revolution to rider
safety in years.
The airbag safety process occurs within
a split second if the rider parts company
with the bike and the thin bladder inside
the jacket becomes fully inflated from a
special gas bottle mounted high on the
right chest. In moments, the jacket is transformed into something that can offer you
more protection when you hit the ground.
Wearing it during inflation static tests,
it feels like someone with a
huge vise is
crushing you, such is the air
pressure inside the jacket
that you can feel its going
to work for you. This feeling alone gives me great
confidence in saying that it
will help reduce injuries in
most crashes. The head is
supported at the back and
sides under the helmet, by
the now large airbag. At
the back, the jacket bulges
out probably 100mm just
below the shoulder blades,
tapering to about 75mm
thick down towards the bum
protector, which unbuttons
and flips down automatically
upon inflation. The front gets
a blast of protective air too,
with the chest area well protected with around 75mm of
air, including under the

arms for extra rib protection. The jacket begins to
slowly deflate about 30
seconds after activation.
A coiled wire is easily
attached to the bike in a
suitable place, fitting into a
female clip that is attached
to the jacket. You need to
give a good, deliberate pull
before the jacket inflates. It
takes approx. 30kg of force
from the clip to activate the
gas cylinder, so if you try to walk
off forgetting to press the large
disconnect button, you will feel a
reminder tug because the jacket
has some give in it and the
coiled wire straightens out.
Comprehensive literature
with step-by-step photos is
provided for fitting the coiled
wire and cylinder replacement.
The only downside to the
airbag safety feature is where
to put the small gas
cylinder. Hit-Air mounted it
vertically on the right side of
the chest.
It is always recommended
that you should choose quality safety items through the
authorized dealers such as
Al Yousuf Motors where not
only quality is good but you
can also find their price very
competitive. Above all, you
can find Al Yousuf Showrooms
throughout the United Arab
Emirates.
QATAR EXPLORER
In Search of Altitude
The Qatar rock

climbing experience
Words By: Eulogy van Dyk
Photos By: Doha Climbers
When three Spanish expats set

off in search of altitude in Qatar
one would think it is rather an irrational idea in a country that is
known for its flat terrains and with
the highest point above sea level at
only 103m/338ft. But nothing can
stop the adventurer at heart, and
so in 2011 these three Spanish
guys went on a mission to find a
rock climbing spot to continue their
beloved hobby here in the desert.
They literally Googled rocks in Qatar
in the hope that it would disclose some
unknown sites. After examining maps via
Google Earth in depth, they saw that there
were some formations on the northwest side
of Qatar that could be favourable for their requirements. So they jumped in their car and
started driving in that direction to see if they
could find a suitable spot for their favourite
outdoor activity.
The Zekreet National Park is located on
the northwest side of the country and has a
number of large rock formations, the highest
of them begin around 15 metres.This is exactly where they went. They found a number
of favourable spots but one specific wall,
shaped similar to a horseshoe when looking
from above, caught their attention and thats
where it all started.
The expats established a Facebook groupcalled the Doha Climbers and invited fellow
rock climbers to join them on this new adventure. In the beginning, it was onlythe three
musketeers who went on regular trips, but
as the word spread, more and more people
joined. It has now become a weekly activity
that takes place throughout the whole year.
The type of rock formation is mainly limestone, with very sandy conditions. It makes
for difficult grips and some would say that it
is technically challenging. Luckily the designers of the routes have made sure that
you will not leave disappointed.
The wall is about 12m high and is suitable
only for top rope climbing. Currently there
are about 13 different routes with various

difficulty levels that have names like Tiger,
Spanish Angel, The Crack and Chico
Power. If you are new to rock climbing,
be aware that the difficulty level at Zekreet
starts off rather high. So dont be discouraged if you fail toreach the top on your first
attempt!It is however a great place to start
your exploration of climbing, with fantastic
support and encouragement from the more
seasoned climbers. Be warned, it is something that ropes you in! Pretty soon you
will be climbing to the top andattempting the
more difficult routes.
I had the privilege to join the Doha Climbers group recently for a desert rock climbing
adventure and what an amazing group of
people it is - friendly, warm and social. Anyone is encouraged to join, no matter what
age or ability. You dont even need your own
climbing gear, as one of the regular climbers
will be able to help you out with a harness
and ropes!
One of the best things about the group is
that they keep active throughout the whole
year. During the cooler winter months, they
meet mostly on Fridays for a day of climbing
fun. And they dont get beaten by the summer heat as they then change their climbing
sessions to Thursday evenings and climb
throughout the night! I can really
recommend the night climbing during the

summer months, even though it can become
a bit sticky when the humidity is high. It is a
really great adventure to spend time outdoors during the hotter months in the Middle
East.
Weekly events are created on their Facebook page so it is easy to know what happens when and where.
So if you have ever wondered what to do
with that rock climbing gear lying around
at home, bring it along for your next visit to
Qatar!
For more information on their weekly
activities join the Doha Climbers
Facebook group or send an email to
dohaclimbers@gmail.com.
Rock Climbing at night during the summer months
OUR EXPERTS
Biking in the
Mountains
Words By: Nico de Corato
Photos By: Giacomo Pompanin, Diego Gaspari
Bandion and Cortina Tourism Board
Enjoy a great mountain bike

outing, and then relax in a hot tub
overlooking a beautiful landscape
before rounding off the day with
the typical gastronomic delights on
offer in a mountain refuge.
Autumn in the mountains. After a long,
hot summer, there is nothing better than
being closer to nature with emotions inspired by the rhythms of changing colours
in the spectacular Dolomite landscapes in
Italy. Watching the sunrise in the mountains
is an unforgettable experience, especially
during this season.
There are lots of activities you can do:
walking in the silence of nature, through
blushing larch forests and across mountain
peaks tinted in hues of red, which leaves
you with a profound feeling of wellbeing and relaxation that touches your very
soul. Allow yourself to rest in the refuges
to witness a culinary highlight - indulging
in all the flavours and fragrances brought
on by the season. For adrenaline hunters,
the rush of a downhill bike ride, a via ferrata (it is highly recommended to seek the
advice of mountain professionals prior to
attempting a via ferrata for the first time)
or a classic climbing route, or even a run
along a scenic mountain trail, offers that
special satisfaction derived from transforming fatigue into pleasure.
For this trip I have chosen to train riding
a fatbike, a bicycle with over-sized tires,
typically 3.8in (97mm) or larger and rims

2.6in (66mm) or wider, designed for low
ground pressure to allow riding on soft unstable terrain, such as snow and sand. They
were invented for winter trail riding and
racing but soon people also started using
them in a desert environment.
Ive been to the Bike Park in Cortina, a
place I love. Probably because its so different from Dubai, probably because Ive
spent already so much time there.
This is the ideal place for all downhill
fans, with four trails of different lengths
and difficulties equipped with trampolines
for jumps and technical sections in the
woods. Trails range from black, reserved
for more experienced riders; to red, where
riders can train and have fun developing
their skills. Track 1 - the most challeng-
ing - is 2,800 metres long with an average

slope of 21% and maximum slope of 70%.
The second is the same length, with a
slightly higher average gradient (26%) and
a maximum gradient of 61 %. The third is
980 metres long with an average slope of
21% and a maximum of 63%.
I tried to spend as much time as possible on the bike, bringing all the food and
water needed for the day, and planning
dinner at the refuge in the evening. Since
Im preparing for a long desert exploration,
I kept my goal in mind and I also tried to
be self-sufficient throughout my time training there.
Cortina has plenty of dedicated routes
for those who really love two wheels, and
since winter 2014/2015, two fatbike slopes
have opened behind Col Gallina lifts, for
gravity descents. You cannot miss this

thrilling experience!
We also had the chance to organise a
night run with dinner at one of the local
refuges. This was a breath-taking experience which involved leaving at sunset to
enjoy the last beautiful glimpses of light
and appreciating the beauty of nature at
night alongside the light plays formed by
the twisting mountains.
It is also possible to ride a fatbike along
the paths and the routes normally used for
snowshoeing and walking (but not along
the ski slopes and the cross-country skiing
tracks), so that the silhouettes of pinnacles,
spires and towers, impressive and unmistakable Dolomite shapes, carved into the
brilliant blue sky, become a perfect background for your ride.
You only have to consider that fatbikes
are rigid. Fat tyres do provide some very
limited suspension action on their own
when properly inflated. A rigid bike can be
fast and efficient on smooth trails. However, as the trail gets rougher and rougher
you have to slow down to maintain control
plus you have to stand frequently to absorb impacts. The end result is a slower,
more tiring ride on rough terrain. If you
have the chance and you want to appreciate some of the best routes, you might
consider switching to a mountain bike on

some occasions.
During the winter you can also reinvent
your MTB with a K-track: a special modification kit which is used to transform any
mountain bike into a snow bike, letting you
tackle snow-covered slopes with ease.
In Cortina, the Kite4Freedom school
introduces novices to this new sport, which
at long last provides a bit of winter fun for
mountain bike fans, no longer forced to
leave their bikes stored in the garage for
the duration of the winter. The best places
for practicing with the k-track are those areas at the edge of slopes, where the snow
is less compacted. So Im looking forward
to winter to also try this experience!
Ready to cycle again...
Blogger, marathon runner, triathlete,

divemaster and heli rescue swimmer with
Bergamo Scuba Angels. You can check my
website www.dubaiblognetwork.com,
contact me on social networks or via email
at admin@dubaiblognetwork.com for
information about this article or just to say
hello.
OUTDOORUAE
55
OUR EXPERTS
An Underwater Clean Up
Words + Photos By: Jake Lyle
Despite Dubais reputation for

glamorous high rise buildings and
luxury supercars on the roads, this
city is able to boast more than just
manmade accomplishments as its
waters are filled with an abundance
of life, a biodiversity that is seldom
seen just off the coast of a rapidly
growing super city.
The shores of Dubai are home to hundreds
of species of fish and even more species of
underwater plant life. Over the years, beach
goers and boat enthusiasts have reported
sightings of everything from dolphins and
turtles, to stingrays and whale sharks
clearly this citys waters are blessed with
life. However, as the city grows, so does the
threat to these underwater varieties with
more and more rubbish and waste being
produced, the higher the chance of this
waste finding its way into the ocean.
Many of us have seen the troubling image
of a turtle with a plastic bag wrapped around
its neck, or a dolphin with a plastic water

bottle stuck in its snout, and unfortunately
the frequency at which these instances are
occurring is increasing. Its not all bad news
however, as there is something that can be
done to battle this problem, something that
a team of divers and I did with the Pavilion
Dive Centre in late September.
A team of five divers and I undertook the
task of cleaning up the reef along a wall
and removing any litter or debris that was
congesting the flora and fauna just off the
Jumeirah Beach Hotel, in the hopes of im-
proving the overall health of the reef and its

inhabitants. Obviously, this wasnt a normal
leisurely dive, and each diver had in hand a
large empty rice sack, as opposed to a camera, and was ready to collect debris instead
of photos. On our hands, we wore heavyduty gloves, which proved very useful when
we came across sunken rusty metal objects,
with sharp edges jutting out. And finally on
our legs we had dive knives strapped in at
the ready, equipped to disentangle and cut
ropes that were constricting the reef.
With all the gear prepared and checked,

we set off on our mission to create a more
sustainable environment on the reef. Once
submerged, it was surprising to see so much
life and so many colours so close to the
shore and the harbor, but nevertheless, the
reef wall was vibrant and animated all the
more reason to keep it in pristine condition.
The search began. At first it was pleasing to see the scarcity of debris and litter
throughout the reef, instilling a confidence
that maybe we werent going to find anything and that the reef itself was already
clean. But as we scoured the reef further
and searched for debris, the sunken objects
that didnt belong underwater soon became
apparent. Moving over the reef, wed spot
a green plastic bag caught between two
rocks, swaying with the current and easily
mistaken for some form of plant life that a
turtle or a large fish would see as very appetising. More and more of these articles of
debris became visible, and as we extracted
them from the reef and collected them, the
space in our bags began to quickly fill up.
A piece of plastic between those rocks, an
empty carton under another one, or some
scrap metal resting over there. The search
soon became busy. One of the most common and most difficult to remove pieces of
debris that we came across was discarded
rope. Tens of metres of rope had found
its way onto the reef, spreading across it,
weaving through it and tangling around it
making the task of removing it incredibly
challenging. Not only does the rope restrict
the reef, but it also presents a real hazard
to any diver in low visibility that could easily
become entangled in the labyrinth of twine,
or any swimmer who dives down below to
peek at the underwater landscape, leading to a very dangerous situation. With a
series of systematic cuts from a dive knife
at certain points along the ropes where it
had been entangled, we were able to free
the ropes that we came across, extract them

from the reef and pack them into the bags.
Continuing the search, we discovered a
number of metal poles and objects abruptly
jutting out of the reef and rocks, which
presented a clear danger to both marine
life and anyone swimming in the water. The
sharp poles, probably fallen or discarded
overboard from a yacht or fishing vessel,
protruded out from the wall and were standing in wait, in perfect position to puncture
the side of any fish or person swimming
nearby. Out from the reef and into the bag
the poles went; by now the bags had begun
to act as weights, forcing us to put in extra
effort to keep them suspended in the water.
Getting closer to the rocks, we were
able to find the numerous hidden objects
and pieces of rubbish that were concealed
behind the reef that had fallen through
the cracks and accumulated under cover.
Among these hidden objects were things
like plastic and glass cups, tubes of electrical wire and even some components of
common garden equipment. The collection
continued and every new discovery would
be gathered into the sacks.
As the dive was shallow, we were able to
stay under for a longer period, maximising
our time collecting the rubbish and cleaning
as much of the reef as possible. Surfacing at
just over 60 minutes, our bags were full and
the reef was cleaner. The empty rice sacks

were now full to the brim with a plethora of
odd objects and discarded rubbish. The dive
had been a success. After bringing the sacks
back to the dive shop, we emptied each one
and catalogued the different pieces of rubbish and debris that we had extracted. The
masses of ropes, plastics and metals spread
across the ground, and it felt good knowing
that all that was now off of the reef, out of
the ocean and soon to be into the proper
waste disposal.
Although in the grand scheme of things,
the waste that we collected seems minimal,
with those objects out of the sea, there are
now far less dangers to both swimmers and
marine life in the area. We have decreased
the chances of a marine species caught in
electrical wiring, of an unsuspecting swimmer cut on a rusty metal pole or of a section
of the reef being slowly worn away by a
series of ropes constantly scraping against
it. It is sustainable approaches like these
that leave the coastal environment safer and
cleaner. It allows that reef wall to now grow
and develop much easier, without the interference of rubbish holding it back.
Despite the difference that has been
made however, these cleanups are not
the solution to the problem. Although we
may have removed a few kilos of waste
from the sea, it will not be long before a
similar amount once again resides on the
reef. Instead, the solution lies with Dubais
residents; the proper discarding of litter and
the care that must be taken to ensure this
litter doesnt end up in the ocean. Its easy
to properly discard of rubbish, by simply
putting it in the bin, as opposed to leaving it
on the ground, or making an effort to carry
it until an opportunity to properly dispose
of it becomes available. This will then help
us to achieve a more sustainable and safer
environment for Dubais growing population,
and allow the city to boast of more than just
five star hotels and exotic pets.
OUTDOORUAE
57
OUR EXPERTS
Women on Wheels
The Mountain Runner

Words by: Helle Bachofen von Echt
Photos by: Roland Magon
Its impossible not to feel at

home while being collected by the
same driver, greeted by the same
smiling front desk staff and being
served by the same waiters in the
hotel restaurant as I did during my
visit last summer, more than one
year ago.
Their facial expressions noticeably show
that they recognise me. This is certainly a clear
sign that all hotel staff are happy where they
are. Nicola and Alberto Verdolin who run this
family hotel are very professional, responsive
and attentive; and I have witnessed how they
make personal time for all visiting guests. It
is impossible not to feel welcome and well
looked after in this hotel.
The Garda Bike Hotel, located in Peschiera
at the south of end of the stunning Lake Garda, Italy, specializes in cycling holidays. And
certainly, as a cyclist, whether beginner or experienced, you need not worry about a thing.
Everything is taken care of for the guests.
Every day of the week they have guided tours,
a mix of easier and more challenging rides, a
mix of flat, scenic, city, vineyard or mountain
rides and within those a choice of difficulties
or length of the ride. There is an option for
all riders. Their guides too are very attentive
and knowledgeable and their top priority is
safety. Bikes are securely locked away in their
dedicated bike room and there is a mechanic
on site. They also do bike rental and offer a
range of Pinarello bikes including the Dogma
F8. Lunch and snacks are provided every day
for riders to take on tour and for the longer

rides, a van will accompany the riders and
carry all necessities as well as taking on board
any riders who could potentially have overestimated their abilities on the day. A lunch buffet
consisting of post-riding nutrition is open all
afternoon for the hungry returning cyclist and
the laundry basket is waiting for the drop off
of sweaty cycling kits, to be clean and fresh for
next mornings ride. In the late afternoon, a
selection of salty snacks are served and if there
is a desire for some downtime, resting can
be achieved either by the outdoor hotel pool
or in the unquestionably comfortable lounge
chairs (I am evidence that these can also be
used for napping). Undeniably, Garda Bike
Hotel has it all covered for the cycling visitor.
This year I have returned to Garda Bike
Hotel with a selection of passionate cycling
friends who have flown in from London, Copenhagen and Abu Dhabi; a brilliant combination of people responsible for enormous
amounts of laughter. We have all joined forces
in Lake Garda to ride the first edition of the
GranFondo Bike Division Peschiera Del Garda.
However, we have arrived some days in
advance to make the most of the spectacular
scenery around the lake and the vineyards, but
mostly to conquer some of the most famous
climbs in the surrounding areas of Lake Garda.
For many climbing enthusiasts, undoubtedly
the Stelvio Pass is one to tick off the list, and
so it was for all of us. The excitement for this

climb already grew while packing the allweather cycling gear for this trip. However,
it turned out that unfortunately Stelvio at its
2,757m above sea level height was covered
in 40cm of snow during our available days.
At least, this makes the perfect reason to yet
again return for cycling in this area.
With the Stelvio Pass to be missed this time,
instead we set off to tackle Monte Baldo, a
mountain range in the Italian Alps located in
the provinces of Trentino and Verona, peaking
at 2,218m above sea level. We have woken
up to a beautiful sunny day and we set off
on a long day in the saddle. Its a 50km flat
ride to Avio - the base of one side of Monte
Baldo. The last 10km of this part is just stunning;

we snaked our way through the undisturbed green
vineyards on a narrow pathway, with the mountain
peeking on the side and clear blue sky rising above.
We made a refuelling stop before setting off on the
21.08km climb of 7% average grade with a total of
1,495m of elevation.
In the first couple of kilometres as per usual the
riders spread out according to their abilities on the
climb and most riders climb pretty much solo. The
first 10km or so are covered by trees and as there
is a long way to go, its all about finding a good
sustainable rhythm and pedal stroke. On this day
and on this climb, I personally choose to tackle
Monte Baldo with comfort and enjoyment. I know
I will eventually get to the top and I chose to keep
my heart rate and lactic acid under control as well
as making space for appreciating my surroundings
and views. As the kilometres and switchbacks pass,
I peek through the gaps of trees and witness the
base slowly disappearing while I rise higher and
higher. Every glimpse is increasingly wonderful.
There is something very special about viewing our
surroundings from above. I have to absorb quickly
and snap a photographic picture in my mind as
I must keep pedalling. Some parts of this climb
increase to 12% average and the pedal strokes become deeper but otherwise its a very charming and
merciful climb. As we reach 16km into the climb,
the landscape flattens and we can regroup and
take well deserved fuel and rest. We have now risen
above the tree line, the mountain side is open and
we receive views over additional mountain ranges in
the distance. We must move on further as we all feel
the cool mountain air through our damp jerseys.
We have another 6km to climb towards the highest point for cyclists. Our guide comforts us with:
Not far to go and its almost flat. It works and we
continue with confidence. However, its not exactly
true. As we pass the bends on the narrow mountain
road and see yet another ascension towards the
peak, I hear sighs around me kudos to everyone
for completing all 21km of climbing. We start our
35km of descending and we make one easy-to-miss
but momentous stop not far from the peak. This is
the only small viewpoint over Lake Garda from this
side, but it is exceptionally breathtaking. I could
have stayed in this spot in a trance all day. Layer
after layer of the mountain range fills the space on
the other side of the calm and blue Lake Garda.
It is like a fairytale. One double espresso later, we
continue our descending. 35km, some narrow roads
with extra caution and some wide roads with perfect
sized bends to go full speed chasing our guide to
the bottom.
After 126km, almost six hours and 2000m of
climbing, we return back to our temporary home, all
feeling a substantial sense of accomplishment.
Our next challenge is the first edition of the 100k
GranFondo Bike Division Peschiera Del Garda.
The riders gather on the start line, 650 riders due
to complete the GranFondo. We arrive in our
start box at 8:00 a.m. and our sea blue team from
Garda Bike Hotel is clearly visible in the crowd as
the largest team of 40 riders. We take off in a sprint
start and within minutes the blues are separated.
I continue my own race. On the flatter part during

the first 36km, I race strongly and jump from wheel
to wheel to keep the pace high while preserving
energy. At 36km we hit a 4km climb and as climbing
is my weakness, I feel myself sliding backwards in
the crowd while I am being overtaken by too many
people of all ages. As I reach the top, I settle back
in with a smaller group of guys and I notice two
younger guys pulling us along. I follow as they take
a right turn at a split section and I fuel for the next
challenge, the biggest climb of 12km of elevation.
10km later I am still waiting for that climb. Something is wrong. Where is it? I look around, there are
no mountain sides besides us. I check in with the
young guys. They are riding the Corto, which is only
75km and has four smaller climbs instead of the big
one. OMG. I have gone the wrong way! Okay, in
that moment, I am deeply disappointed that I wont
complete the GranFondo and equally not being
a great climber, I am not utterly upset to miss the
climbing under pressure. Instead I take the front of
our group and power through the flat sections with
the train of riders behind. That feels good, at least. I
cross the finish line before my friends and the rest of
the blue team riding the full 100K GranFondo and
cheer for them as they pass our hotel, less than 1km
from the finish line. As we all reunite in the hotel
bar and experiences are exchanged, it is evident
that everyone had a great time and each their own
personal story. Everyone agreed that the course
is fantastic as there is something for all abilities. A
varied course, with flat and fast sections, undulated
terrain with small bumps and both shorter and
longer climbs; something to both challenge and
satisfy each individual rider.
We leave the hotel enriched with more adventures and experiences in our personal cycling
stories, more kilometres and elevation meters in our
legs, new friendships, family and endless laughter.
Before taking off for our respective city lives, we
all agree to make this an annual event. See you in
2016.
Helle Bachofen von Echt is a
Dubai-based sponsored Elite Road Cyclist
competing in both local and international
events. When she is not training, she is helping others achieve their health and fitness
goals by running her own personal training
services as well as giving indoor cycling classes. Helle loves travelling with her bike
and you can follow her adventures and
racing on Instagram
@thegirlwhocyclesinthedesert.
OUR EXPERTS
30 AED Quick Wash Jig/Lure Box

Words + Photos by: Kit Belen
It has been a while since I wrote a Do

It Yourself article, so after a while of thinking about what to write here, I decided I
was going to write about my most recent
project.
Shopping around the tackle shops for a
decent box to hold most of my jigs, I found
that there were some for sale that tick the
boxes off on my list, but none except for
one (which I found online) ticked everything
- except for the price box.
I wanted a lure box that I could put my
jigs in or my chosen lures for inshore trolling.
I dont know about you, but often times
when I get home, I am so tired from the
fishing and driving that I usually do as many
of the chores as I can and then sleep. One
of the things that takes me a long time is
cleaning the lures Ive used. Its a tedious
and time-consuming job and more often
than I want it to happen, I skip it just to save
time. After replacing the hooks on my lures
on several occasions, I decided to think of
a way for me to wash them down without
taking so long.
With this box, I can wash and dry everything in the box without worrying about
missing out lures that I forgot I used and
foolishly dumped back into the pile.
You only need PVC piping and a small icebox that you can get at Carrefour for about
30AED. I already have some PVC pipes
from a previous project so there wasnt really much spending on this except for the
icebox.
Im sure someone out there will make a
better version, but here is the basic idea
from start to finish.
You will need a length of PVC piping and a 5 litre icebox
I drilled holes on the sides and one in the middle
The jigs neatly hang on the lip of the pipes
Cutting the pipe to length with a miter

made it easy to make the lengths consistent and the edges straight
Our fishing pro who shares

his experiences and
expertise with OutdoorUAE
through his regular column.
thefishingkit@gmail.com
I tested the box out and washed everything inside - worked like its supposed to!
PEOPLE
Masooma Ali
Age: 35
Nationality: Emirati
Occupation: Sales Quality Manager
We here at OutdoorUAE love it so
much when we hear of amazing people via

the community. Were a magazine that is
founded on the idea of being close to the
community as much as possible. So when
the people told us about the amazing story
of Masooma or Mas as she is popularly
known within the cycling world, we just had
to sit down with her and ask her about the
life and times of an Emirati cyclist.
How did your cycling
story start?
My passion for cycling started in 2013 when

I saw a bunch of elite cyclists riding on the
road riding very professionally. The image of
that peloton was so powerful that I immediately fell in love with it. So I said to myself,
I want to be like them.
Tell us a little about your

training regimen...
My daily training is usually made up of a

30 40k steady ride. In the weekends, I do
longer distances with a group with some
hard spinning.
What are some of the

difficulties that cyclists
experience here in the United
Arab Emirates and how can you
as a cyclist help out?
For me the main difficulty is the lack of

cycling tracks and areas. Since its very dangerous to ride on the public roads, we are
forced to use tracks. Currently we have the
Al Qudra Cycling Path which is the biggest
one. Its quite difficult to travel for almost 40
minutes there for just a little spinning after
work.
What should our readers,

especially female readers
know when they would like
to try cycling out?
n Give yourself enough time to learn it and

go the distance. The more you ride, the better you can synchronize with your bike.
n Do not compare yourself to the pros,
rather observe your progress.
n Keep yourself hydrated all the time, eat
well and healthy. This sport requires a lot of
physical stamina so you will need all your
energy.
n Get the right bike with the right fitting.

Riding the wrong bike will affect your performance and can cause injuries.
n Enjoy your ride. It will keep you on the
saddle longer.
Does being a woman in the

cycling community have its
perks?
It definitely has some advantages in my

opinion. Since this sport is just growing
amongst women in the UAE, the general interest is at its peak. I see new faces joining
our team every time with a great desire to
continue learning the techniques and getting stronger. Second, being a woman cyclist
in my community is not a common thing and
it has its own challenges, but its attractive in
its own way and encourages more women to
take up cycling.
Are you involved in any other

outdoor activities?
I have recently started running but at a
beginner level.
For you, whats so special

about taking your bike for a
spin?
I feel free when Im on the bike and I get a

sense of power. It releases stress and leaves
you with a positive feeling both physically
and mentally. The more time I spend on my
bike, the more my body engages with every
movement. Your bike becomes an extension
of your body.
Are you preparing for any

events? Whats next for you?
I like to participate in more races specially
womens events. My main reason for that
is to gain experience and compare myself
to those on the same level as me. Im also
looking forward to race in the Spinneys
Dubai 92 which is coming in two months.
OUTDOORUAE
61
LOCATIONS
Words + Photos by: Doe Lone
It was one of the sunny Fridays. Two

bouldering aficionados are back in Ras Al
Khaimah in the middle of September. What
brought us here is THE CUBE a boulder
that UAE forgot, a rectangular hut size
rock in Wadi Shahah. A juxtaposition of
RAKs Hajar Mountain range in the background with this standalone boulder in the
field, its texture and contrast never fail to
attract us. Of course it is hot out there.
How to escape the heat during summer?
The simple answer is Dont go out just
stay inside fully air-conditioned offices and
flats and often cars. But can we really can
spend our life in this situation, really?
Escaping intense heat by climbing in
indoor gyms is fair enough in summer. It is
a way to get ready and train for the upcoming winter climbing season in the United
Arab Emirates. Climbing outdoor in the
middle of September is complex psych of
thirst for being exposed in earth, dust and
humid winds and some add-on stupidity.
We have to be brave enough to go out and
this made us go climb a rock. We already

are acclimatizing well with UAE summers.
We were here at The Cube last year too,
it was me and our friend - Emirati climber
Saif, along with Harold marking the 14year old kids first outdoor trip in the UAE.
Harolds family moved to the UAE last year
from Singapore where Harold is a champion in a junior bouldering competition in
Singapore. Kiwi-French youngster Harold
is not only a talented bouldering problem
solver but also has the climbing spirit in his
blood.
This time of year, only I and Harold head
back towards RAK to repeat The Cube,
hugging and chilling around by eating
some chalk. Our crash pads are our prayer
mats to worship this earth wonder The
Cube.
We didnt see any chalk dust on the
boulder nor boot markings around it,
assuming no one has ever come back to
hug this rock ever since we did last year.
Were not surprised; The Cube is neither
popular nor on the top list for outdoor
climbers. Lack of interest in bouldering, or
considering it is too easy compared with
rope involved types of Sport or Trad, or
lack of good spotting buddies and no crash
pad, make The Cube a low profile boulder.
Actually The Cube is just near some of the
popular road side crags of RAK Vegas (what
climbers usually nickname Ras Al Khaimah
because of its rich crags for climbing).

Opposite on the other side of the road to
the cube is the area for some of the busy
sport routes. To the same side of the Cube
is the Hajar Mountains area where lots of
multi-pitch sport and trad lines including
the Kharzang 90m 3-pitch bolted route we
climbed last year.
We hit there by 10am. Keeping ourselves hydrated is key in this heat. We laid
out our crash pads and stretched. Harold
warmed-up on the V1 flake first. Whenever
we get our toes into our climbing shoes,
it felt like the skin is literally burning and
That doesnt even come close to describing
the actual suffering of my toes its way
hotter. We sit back and chill while hydrating
which is another good part of the game.
Some breeze whispers on our faces and we
call it a lucky moment. THE CUBE RAK,
three side climbing surfaces, with another
face with a ledge-like formation for easier
descending off from the top of the boulder.
After each climb on a particular bouldering
problem, We down climb. Or theres a bolt
on the flat roof top of the boulder for you
to equip with ropes to rappel down.
We had two crashpads which we often
use as our comforter during rests. We
worked Mikes V4 problem at around 11:00
a.m. with the naked sun on our faces. The
rock is hot, the wind is hot and everything
is HOT. This is not a very good day. Dude!,
My toes are burning , Harold said. Hes

right, both of us were suffering and we
thought that its time to pack up.
We then recall some of our stories and
sharing good vibes while we rest. Its one
of the climbing magazines of late 2010 that
brought me to the UAE. There is an article
about climbing in the Arabian Peninsula
entitled Diamond in the Dust written
by Molly Loomis. It describes Oman rock
climbing; its limestone rock, deserts dunes
and the sounds of the ocean are those
which supported my decision to move to
Dubai for work. In my early days in the
UAE, I did buildering around Abu Dhabi
and I was almost arrested by the police.
(Yes buildering is climbing the building,
making moves on any climbable manmade
structures). Then I was inspired by Abu
Dhabi climbers like Toby and Dave who
welcomed us to their homes boulder wall
to train. Nowadays, outdoor bouldering
in UAE is growing; from one dedicated
boulder gym - Rock Republic, to meeting
folks with same interests. Whilst outdoor
builderers are still rare.
Harold is pretty positive about finding
more boulders in RAK, he said Unknown
routes, plenty to discover I think!
He is right, some of them have been
discovered such as the Red Wall Boulder
Field which requires an hour of intense 4x4
driving plus another hour of hiking makes
those boulders more isolated. Even The
Cube which is a lesser climb, but a classic
bouldering problem in UAE is an hours
drive from the Dubai Airport.
The UAE still has huge potential to
develop bouldering in the region with so
much more to discover and offer.Go climb
a rock folks.
APPROACH: THE CUBE is within 110km

reach from Dubai International Airport. Yeah,
just an hour drive. No 4x4, no problem, its
a saloon friendly drive. Park beside the road
and hike to reach the boulder in five minutes.
Obvious landmark is the boulder The Cube
itself in the field on the RHS of the road and
background mountain has a cave-like formation to confirm the right spot.
GUIDE BOOKS AND TOPO: UAE ROCK
CLIMBING guide book by Toby Foord-Kelcey
covers its detail on page 61.
Updated 3D printout top is available http://www.redarmadapublishing.com/cube.pdf
GEARS: CRASH PADS. And your climbing shoes of course. Load of chalk and big
brushes will help too. Landing areas are fairly smooth to gravel ground around. Bouldering mats are must and highly recommended to use one or more for safe landing.
Having a partner with good spotting is always great too. Down climb is possible on
the other side of the boulder (bolted on top of the flat boulder- in case if you top
rope project on V4 or rappel off for descend).
IMPORTANT NOTE: There is a small graveyard near THE CUBE.
Make sure you are not climbing scattered boulders around the memorial stones of
the graveyard area. There are a lot more settlement and farms along RAK roadside in
recent years than before around, THE CUBE could belong to someone elses territory, there are no issue with access so far and no fence has been around unlike nearby
farms.
Be respectful to the land, please do not litter including cigarette buds.
OUTDOORUAE
63
LOCATIONS
Words By: Eranga Yasas

Photos By: Channa Munasinghe
Day 3 - 16th April
It was a perfect start as usual. I was the first to

hear the waves breaking on the shore, almost
like a melody in my ear. The sun was already
up and shining on the crystal clear water. By
the time I came back from my short walk, the
others were getting out of their tents. Channa
had the drone out,already filming the surroundings. Bazil was making the morning coffee. The remaining Arabic bread was served
for breakfast with cheese and a special Sri
Lankan chutney. A quick start to the day was
essential to cover as much ground as possible. Despite this, I couldnt resist the clean
water a quick wash was much needed
after Channa accidentally spilled the hot
coffee on my foot with the powerful winds
from the drone. Packing up was done and we
were on our way out of the beach area when
we spotted a soft patch of mud. Bazil is the
usual culprit to try mud but today the star
Epilogue
was Channa.
Two tyres were in soft mud and the other
two tyres were elevated on hard ground. This
made getting out even more difficult. As we
were speaking, two wheels were sinking. We
assessed all possible options and decided
that we would use both our vehicles to pull
Channas car out. By this time some locals
had also gathered to help us. They were very
kind and we gave them some chocolate to
share with their families. Finally the car was
out and we were covered in mud. It was
all good fun, but we were now behind our
schedule.
On the way to Wadi Bani Khalid, our
first stop was Wadi Shab. The journey was
uneventful, but this was a good thing as we
needed to cover the distance before our
lunch stop at Turtle Beach Resort. We made
a plan to drive there as it marks the easternmost point of Oman. Afterwards we pro-
ceeded to Wadi Bani Khalid. On the way, we

saw a few off-roaders getting ready for their
afternoon drive. Waves were exchanged. We
swore that we could see the Wahiba Sands
in the distance towards to our left hand side
while driving on Highway 23. Without further
delays, we drove up to the famous spot
where regular wadi visitors park their vehicles,
and walked up to the water. The drone got a
chance to capture the waterways before the
sun set. We followed a gravel road going to a
village on the top of the mountain, butit was
dark and difficult to find a suitable camping
spot because of the rocky terrain. However,
with the help of some locals we found a flat
spot in the backyard of a villagers house,
not realising what the spot wouldoffer us
until thenext morning! We brought out more
chocolate for the kids and received yet more
smiles. Again a full meal was served for dinner amidst guitar tunes, and it was a treat
before we said goodbye to the stars.
Day 4 - 17th April
The surprise was that we were right next to

the three main ponds and, since we were
also on high ground, we had a perfect aerial
view of the water. Breakfast was courtesy of
Bazil - red rice with bean curry, potato curry
and fried salmon a perfect Sri Lankan
meal. Soon after the meal we walked further
up the wadi looking for a suitable spot for a
dip. Words may not be enough to explain the
excitement of seeing crystal clear, fresh water
gushing through the rocks and a lovely pool
that was ideal for the four of us. We didnt
even realise that we had spent more than two
hours playing in the water. Running water is
utter luxury when you are overlanding!
Packing up after a well-set camp is not
as easy as setting up the camp. This was a
learning experience for all of us as to how to
arrange the vehicles with camping
equipment. We were ready to go in another hour and the plan was to drive up to
Jebel Shams, passing Al Hoota Cave on
the way. Later on our way we took the new
highway; I think the route was longer than
we originally thought and we missed the
shorter route. Somehow we reached Nizwa
by the late afternoon. Since we had replaced
lunch with on-the-go snacks, we decided to
have an early dinner and settle for the short
drive to Jebel Shams from Nizwa. The road
construction delayed our plans and it was
already dark when we left Nizwa. We drove
towards Al Hoota Cave on dark, narrow roads
and changed our plans yet again when we
reached the turn off to Al Hoota Resthouse
and started driving up the hill. This road
leads to Wadi Shethan and we were lucky to
find a nice, safe spot by the road for setting
up our tents right at the top of the mountain.
We started feeling the winter weather at this
point, andas wehad alreadyhad a bellyful, we
immediately retired to sleep.
Day 5 - 18th April
Wow we were all shocked with the weather

conditions and the view of the mountain
range upon waking. We could see Jebel
Shams from one side, and assumed that what
we saw on the other side was Jebel Akhdar.
Cheese, mushrooms, eggs and sausages
were presented in a five star manner, one of
the best meals served during the trip. We all
knew that this was the final day and we were
already planning our next adventure. Wadi
Shethan was the last leg of the trip and on
this leg we did more off-road than the entire
trip. An all-gravel track with mind blowing
scenery, we came across few campers driving
up in the morning. We passed some small
settlements: Al Hajir and Bilad Sayt. Bazils
Cherokee suffered a flat tire and we repaired
it with the tools we carried along with us. After four hours of wadi driving we came out to
the tarmac on Rustaq-Miskin Road. Instead of
driving to Al Ain, we headed towards Hatta
with hopes that we would be able to collect
our Walkie Talkies, but instead our vehicles

were checked and we were told to come later
to collect the Walkie Talkies.
It was indeed a memorable trip that helped
us to bond well. It was a great opportunity
to test the practicalities of the equipment
we had and to discover what we needed
for future expeditions, which we carefully
discussed and noted down to improve trips
in the future. We encourage such adventures
as they are definitely a different experience
to checking into a hotel room and taking a
dip in a chlorine-infested swimming pool. We
also have to be thankful for the safety in this
region that allows such trips to be planned
without any fear. Our hearts were full with
sadness that we had to once again be a part
of the rat race from the following day. We do
believe that this is not the last time we will
bid goodbye to Emirates Road. All in all,
we encourage everybody to plan long trips
such as this, so that you will be able to cover
more distance and also stay safe on road. As
always, abide the local laws and regulations
and make sure you dont litter the places you
travel. Remember All that goes in, must
come out.
OUTDOORUAE
65
Exercises for Rock Climbing

Words By: Milos Rankovic
Photos By: Jung Francisco
For those considering taking up rock

climbing, even for a one-shot adventure,
it is important that you get physically
prepared to go the distance as there
arent any quick exits from the side of a
mountain.
So if youre planning to take on a peak,
youll want to spend an appropriate amount
of time and energy on your bodys physical
systems ready for the demands that puts
on you. One of the most important physical
capacities that you want to build in order to
successfully conquer the peak of any mountain is to increase your strength levels.
Why is Getting Stronger Important

to be Successful in Rock Climbing?
Physical strength is one of the most important abilities in life and getting stronger is
the foundation of all fitness goals. Strength
training can help make any outdoor activity feel much easier and hence a lot more
enjoyable. It can also help prevent any injury
by increasing joint integrity and maintaining
muscle balance.
Rock climbing doesnt require powerlifting skills, but it does require a fair bit of
strength. After all, youre not just hauling
your body up the mountain; youre also
probably hauling a large pack on your back
and your body needs to be able to move
vertically with that extra weight.
Rock climbers will benefit from having
strong muscles, but the lighter their bodyweight, the less they have to drag with them
up the mountain. So while getting stronger
is crucial, it is also important to keep your
body weight in check!
Here, I am going to present to you some of
the best exercise that every climber should do:
1. Pull-ups
Undoubtedly the most universal exercise

used by climbers. Pull-ups are a great tool
for increasing the upper body pulling and
grip strength that is crucial for successful
climbing.
How to do it:
n Grab the pull-up bar with the palms

slightly wider than shoulder width.
n As you have both arms extended in front
of you holding the bar at the chosen grip
width, keep your torso as straight as possible while creating a curvature on your lower
back and sticking your chest out. This is your
starting position
n As you breathe out, pull your torso up
until your head is around the level of the
pull-up bar.
Tip: The upper torso should remain
stationary as it moves through space and
only the arms should move. The forearms
should do no other work than hold the bar.
After a second of holding your body in the
final position, slowly lower your torso back
to the starting position; when your arms are
fully extended. Breathe in as you perform
this portion of the movement. Repeat this
motion for the prescribed amount of repetitions.
90 degrees
120 degrees
How to do it:
n Using a pull-up bar or the bucket holds of

a fingerboard (palms facing away of course),
pull up to the top position and lock off with
your hands straight against your chest for a
five-second count.
n Lower yourself to the bottom, straightarmed position and then again, pull up to
the top position but this time, lower yourself
halfway and lock-off your elbow belt at a
90-degree angle.
n Hold this position for a slow, five-second
count then lower yourself to the bottom.
n Pull up a third time but this time, lower
yourself about two-thirds of the way with
an elbow angle of 120 degrees to perform
another static, five-second lock-off.
n Lower to the bottom position and you will
have completed one full cycle.
(To be continued)
2. French Pull-ups
This amazing exercise was popularized by

French climbers and kickstarted sport climbing in the mid-1980s. This unique exercise
incorporates isometric contractions within
the range of motion of a pull-up, making this
perhaps the best pull-muscle endurance exercise for climbers. They are however, inherently painful due to the lactic acid released
by the large muscles on your back and arms.
The payoffs are significant and obvious,
both in terms of more lock-off endurance on
the rock and a marked increase in pull-up
ability. Here are the details of this effective,
modified pull-up.
66
OUTDOORUAE
Milos Rankovic
Personal Trainer
Fitness First Burjuman Centre
22-24 OCT 2015
DUBAI AUTODROME
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW

FROM
ONLY
70 AED
BOOK NOW AT WWW.GULFBIKEWEEK.COM

SUPPORTERS & PARTNERS
VENUE
OFFICIAL RADIO
TIPS & TRICKS
Hydration
in Extreme Heat
Words By: Jon Edwards
Headache, nausea, muscle

cramping and fatigue: all symptoms
of dehydration, you might think. But
these are symptoms of hyponatraemia - the over consumption of
water - which has been found to be
the true cause of symptoms in as
many as a quarter of contestants
who took part in prolonged exercise
in hot climates and who thought
they were suffering from
dehydration.
In sports activities where there are frequent
supplies of fluid with electrolytes, you can in
theory just keep topping up if the activity is
well within your cardio-vascular limits. However, many activities in desert or hot climate
regions often involve the circumstances of
limited fluid supplies, such as hiking or adventure racing where you have to carry your own
fluid supply. Good hydration is not merely
about carrying and consuming water, but also
about trying to minimise the loss of excess
fluids and electrolytes from the body by
maximising body temperature regulation and
replacing those lost fluids and electrolytes.
Body Temperature Regulation
At rest, the internal organs of our body-core

provide warmth to our muscular-skeletal
68
OUTDOORUAE
system. However, when we undertake any

exertion or exercise, the by-product of the
energy our muscles produce is far greater
heat than that produced by our body-core.
This is not just the muscles on our limbs, it
is every piece of muscle tissue in our body.
The heat generated by all of this energy is
then transported by our blood away from
the muscles, but it is initially brought back to
the body-core which at rest normally prefers
to be at approximately 37oC (98.6oF). The
significance of body temperature regulation
is that life threatening heat stroke is an almost
certain consequence of only a 3 degrees C
(5.4 degrees F) increase in body-core temperature.
Heat exhaustion is significantly misunderstood as many believe it is the direct effect of
climatic heat on the body. This is not entirely
true as many people suffering from heat exhaustion have body-core temperatures within
the normal acceptable range. The cause of
the exhaustion whilst exercising in hot climates is because the cardio-vascular system
is trying to undertake two conflicting tasks
and hence working twice as hard. In cool
climates, the cardio-vascular system is mainly
focused on supplying blood rich in oxygen
and nutrients to the hard working muscles.
However, in hot climates, the same oxygen
and nutrient rich blood is being significantly
targeted to the peripheral skin in a desperate
attempt to shed heat from the body-core.
World record marathon holder Paula
Radcliffe famously failed to finish the 2004
Athens Olympic marathon, despite leading
for the majority of the race and being well
hydrated with a normal body-core temperature. She probably succumbed to merely the
cardio-vascular exhaustion because of having
to divert so much blood to her peripheral skin

to maintain a normal body-core temperature.
A great topic for debate is whether, had she
been wearing clothing more appropriate for
extremely hot conditions, she would have
been able to finish the race and win gold?
It must not be underestimated that whilst a
marathon in extreme heat may be needed to
test the limits of professional athletes, lesser
mortals can find their limits tested by far less
strenuous forms of exercise in extreme heat.
Sweating
The body only sweats to regulate body temperature in hot climates or during exertion.
Its counter-productive to carry excess fluid
if you are doing nothing to help your body
stay cool. As your body-core temperature
increases, your cardiovascular system shifts
more and more blood to the task of carrying heat away from your muscles and organs
to the skin, where increased sweating is
your bodys natural attempt to cool yourself
down by the cooling effect of the sweat
evaporating. Imagine this as your body using
sweat just as you would consider throwing
water over yourself. The quicker the sweat
evaporates, the more your body will need to
produce sweat.
Most modern sports clothing is designed
for less severe temperatures and far greater
design emphasis is given to preventing heat
loss by pulling sweat away from your skins
surface and keeping you dry, which in hot climates is working against your bodys thermoregulation mechanism. Sports materials wick
sweat away from your body and evaporate
that sweat as quickly as possible so that your
body starts losing greater amounts of fluid
and the blood that is working so hard to take
heat to your extremities is the same blood

that should be replenishing your muscles and
organs. Thus your physical exercise capability
becomes impaired.
In extreme heat, plain cotton or wool is the
preferred material of choice, despite them
not being considered technical fabrics. This
is because they evaporate fluid at a much
slower rate, keeping a cooling layer of damp
cloth against your body, helping it to stay
cooler as the evaporation process becomes
extended. Cotton will quickly smell bad but
performance wools, particularly Merino wool,
work brilliantly to regulate body temperature
with the added advantage of not smelling.
Alternating two thin wool tops from a small
watertight canister proves a very efficient way
to be able to regularly apply a freshly dampened base layer to your body.
Athletes will calculate their sweat rates
by measuring body weight before and after
exertion. However this cant be realistically
done by lay persons during exercises of prolonged duration such as hiking or adventures
in extreme heat. What the hiker should be
aware of is that an average sweat rate during
moderate exertion such as hiking can be
between 1 to 1.5 litres per hour. So, for an
eight hour trek, your body could lose 8 to 12
litres of fluids, which is an unrealistic quantity
of replacement fluid to be carrying in your
rucksack. Therefore, those undertaking long
duration exertion in extreme heat without
readily available re-supply points should be
giving greater consideration of how to minimise body-core temperature and maximise
the cooling duration of the sweat that they
produce.
If you want to conserve fluids, try to cover
as much of your surface area as possible to
keep your skin in shade and to increase the
opportunity for a damp layer against your
skin, prolonging the cooling evaporation effect and requiring more heat loss to evaporate sweat from material such as cotton or
thin wool.
Dont pass on any opportunity to dampen
clothing in the smallest of water supplies,
but ideally save your clean fluids for drinking.
Also be aware that high factor sun creams,
particularly waterproof or once-a-day application varieties, can impede the evaporation of
sweat and hence body-core cooling if they
form a film of cream on top of the skin. SPF
lotions most often supplied in sprayed bottles that appear to soak into the skin often
provide the best benefit of sun protection
whilst not impeding sweat evaporation and
body-core cooling.
calcium and glucose, which can be found

readily in many foods. Remember that food
sources that are more liquid are absorbed far
easier by your body. I favour pre-hydrating
the night before hiking with fluids and
Arabic or Bedouin style soups, then prior
to the actual activity consume slow burning
carbohydrates such as wholemeal pasta.
Mixing most fruit juices or non-diet soda
drinks 50/50 with water tends to provide an
isotonic solution but sodium content isnt
reliable so for simplicity adding rehydration
powders to water is probably the most convenient option and extra sachets can easily
be carried should you find additional water
supplies. Always check the sachet labels as
they should give you suggested contents of
the differing electrolytes.
Many nuts, particularly salted almonds or
cashews, are packed with vital nutrients and
energy and often cannot be beaten for the
packed size versus benefits. Salted yogurt
drinks such as Ayran or Laban is a common Middle Eastern drink renowned for its
benefits in hot climates. Small cartons can
be carried in backpacks but they are often
best as post-adventure refreshments served
chilled in a caf!
First Aid Implications of Hydration

in Hot Climates
The medical and first aid implications

relating to hydration in hot climates is short
and simple. Preparation and planning of
any exercise in a hot climate should focus
on prevention of getting into dehydration
difficulties;
Pre-hydrating, appropriate clothing and
roughly calculating the distances you can
reasonably hike based on the amount of
rehydration fluids you can carry are possibly
the most vital aspects of your planning, as
well as having a pre-determined timeframe
or distances at which you must turn back.
Alternatively, choose an escape route to a
guaranteed source of replacement fluids.
Should you come across someone who has
succumbed to the effects of the hot climate,
your first priority is your own safety which
includes the preservation of your own fluid
supplies. The second priority is to try and
implement the knowledge from above; hence
you would probably achieve more for the
casualty by recognising that any spare fluid
should be used to aid skin surface cooling by
dampening clothing equally as much as allowing them a drink. If they are exhausted in
the heat they might merely need shade and
rest to recover. If they have heat stroke they
require cooling, hydrating and most definitely
an emergency evacuation.
Fluid & Electrolyte Replacement
Exercising in a hot climate whilst only drinking

water is likely to leave you either dehydrated
or hyponatraemic, but rarely adequately
hydrated as you wont be replacing electrolytes which are as vitally important as the fluid
itself. Some athletes will hyper-hydrate many
hours before exercising. However, this is only
of use if you are also increasing electrolyte
intake at the same time.
Fluid and electrolyte replenishment doesnt
need to be rocket science and fancy expensive sports drinks arent required. The
electrolytes you need to replenish are mainly
sodium, chloride, magnesium, potassium,
OUTDOORUAE
69
UAE DIRECTORY
General Sports
Equipment Megastores
Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center,

Sheikh Zayed Rd, toll free: 800-ADVENTURE,
+971 43466824; The Beach on JBR, Dubai:
+971 44304419; Dalma Mall, Abu Dhabi:
+971 24456995, www.adventurehq.ae
Decathlon, Dubai, Mirdif City Centre,
+971 42839392
Go Sport, The Dubai Mall: +971 43253595;
Abu Dhabi Mall: +971 26454595; Bawabat Al
Sharq Mall, Abu Dhabi: +971 25868240
InterSport, Dubai Times Square Centre:
+971 43418214 and Dubai Festival City:
+971 42066581, www.intersport.ae
Peiniger BMT Est., CBD, Khalifa Street,
Yateem Optician Bldg., Abu Dhabi, UAE,
+971 26262332, www.peiniger.org
Sun and Sand Sports, most shopping
centres, +971 43504444,
www.sunandsandsports.com
Adventure tours
and desert safaris
Alpha Tours, Off #512, 5th Flr., Al Qwais

Bldg., Al Ittihad Road, Deira, Dubai,
+971 42949888, www.alphatoursdubai.com
Dadabhai Travel, SR 1&2, GF, Gulf Towers,
Oud Metha Rd. Dubai, +971 43885566,
www.dadabhaitravel.ae
Desert Rangers, P.O. Box 33501, Dubai
UAE, +971 4 4569944 or 50 7035111
www.desertrangers.com
Desert Road Tourism, Office 503, 5th Flr.,
Al Khor Plaza, Dubai, +971 42959429,
www.arabiantours.com
Dreamdays, First Floor Rm. 107 Ibn Battuta
Gate (Offices) Sheikh Zayed Rd.,
+971 4 4329392 or 4 4329393,
www.dreamdays.ae
Dream Explorer LLC, Shop no # 9,
Plot # 312-504, Al Musalla Building ,
Mina Bazar, Bur Dubai, +971 43544481,
www.dreamexplorerdubai.com
Dubai Relax Travel, National Towers:
Churchill Tower Suite #614, Business Bay, Dubai,
+971 44221776, www.dubairelaxtours.com
Element Fitness, Dubai, +971 44227352,
www.element-fitness.net
Explorer Tours, Umm Ramool, Dubai,
+971 42861991, www.explorertours.ae
Gulf for Good, Dubai, +971 43680222,
www.gulf4good.org
Gulf Ventures, Dnata Travel Centre
+971 44045880, www.gulfventures.com
MMI Travel LLC, Mezzanine Floor, Dnata
Travel Centre, Shk Zayed Road, Dubai,
+971 4 4045999, www.theemiratesgroup.com
Net Group, Dubai and Abu Dhabi,
+971 26794656, www.netgroupauh.com
Oasis Palm Dubai, Dubai, +971 42628889,
www.opdubai.com
Rahhalah, Dubai, +971 44472166,
www.rahhalah.com
Wild Guanabana, Dubai, +971 44422946,
www.wildguanabana.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Fishing, Camping, Kayaking,
& Adventure Club, +971504920860,
mohammed.almahrouky@gmail.com
Air
Ballooning Adventures Emirates, Dubai,

+971 42854949, www.ballooning.ae
Dubai Paragliders, www.microaviation.org,
+971 552120155 or +971 552250193
Jazirah Aviation Club, Ras Al Khaimah,
+971 72446416 or +971 555531318,
www.jac-uae.net
Seawings, Dubai, www.seawings.ae
Sky Dive Dubai, Dubai, +971 501533222,
www.skydivedubai.ae
Boating & Sailing
Manufacturer
Al Fajer Marine, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43235181, www.alfajermarine.com
Al Jeer Marina, RAK border Musandam,
+971 72682333/+971 504873185,
www.aljeerport.ae
Al Shaali Marine, Ajman, +971 67436443,
www.alshaalimarine.com
Alyousuf Industrial, LLC,
+971 43474111, www.aym.ae,
yamboats@alyousuf.com
Elite Pearl Charter, Saeed Tower 1 office
# 3102, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE,
70
OUTDOORUAE
+971 43889666, www.elitepearlcharter.com

Gulf Craft, Ajman, +971 67406060,
www.gulfcraftinc.com
Distributors and Dealers
Art Marine LLC, Al Quoz Industrial Area,
Sheikh Zayed Road, 3rd Interchange
+971 43388955, www.artmarine.ae /
www.artmarinechandley.com
Azure Marine Dubai, +971 4 3706886,
www.azuremarine.net
Luxury Sea Boats, Dubai, +971 4 3284629,
www.luxuryseaboats.com
Macky Marine LLC, Dubai,
+971 505518317, www.mackymarine.com
Nautilus Yachts, Sharjah, +971 553419494
or 50 3419494, www.nautilusyachts.com
The Boat House, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43405152, www.theboathouse.ae
UAE Boats 4 Sale, Dubai Marina,
+971 44471501, www.uaeboats4sale.com
Western Marine, Marina Yacht Club, Dubai,
+971 43039744
Equipment
Ali Khalifah Moh Al Fuqaei, Deira, Dubai,
+971 42263220
Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, +971 43468000,
www.masaoodmarine.com
Blue Waters Marine, Shop 11,
The Curve Bldg., Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+971 43808616 / +971 553899995,
info@bluewatersmarine.com,
www.bluewatersmarine.com
Extreme Marine, Dubai, +971 43992995,
www.extrememarine-me.com
Japan Marine / D1 Marine,
WS # 110, Dubai Maritime City,
+971 4 4426395 or 55 1666035,
uday@japanmarine.jp, www.japanmarine.co
Rineh Emirates Trading LLC, Dubai, Al
Quoz, +971 43391512,
www.rinehemiratesme.com
Repairs and Maintenance
Extreme Marine, Dubai, Dubai Marina,
+971 43992995,
www.extrememarine-me.com
Rineh Emirates, Sheikha Sana Warehouse 1,
Al Quoz, +971 43391512,
info@rinehemiratesme.com,
www.rinehemirates.com
SNS Marine, JAFZA Techno Park, Jebel Ali,
Dubai, +971 501405058, info@snsmarine.ae,
www.snsmarine.ae
The Boat House, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43405152, www.theboathouse.ae
Cruise Operators
Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26665491,
www.marinaalbateenresort.com
Al Marsa Travel & Tourism, Dibba,
Musandam, +968 26836550, +971 65441232
Bateaux Dubai, Dubai Creek opposite
the British Embassy, +971 43994994
Bristol Middle East, Dubai Marina,
+971 4368 2480, www.bristol-middleeast.com
Captain Tonys, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu
Dhabi, +971 26507175, www.captaintonys.ae
Delma Industrial Supply and Marine
Services, Al Bateen Jetty, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26668153, www.delmamarine.net
Eden Yachting, Dubai Marina,
+971 504586171, www.edenyachting.com
Emirates Yachting, Dubai, +971 42826683
El Mundo, Dubai, +971 505517406,
www.elmundodubai.com
Four Star Travel and Tourism, Dubai,
+971 42737779, www.fourstartravels.net
4 Yacht Arabia, Shop No. 5, Dubai Marina
Yacht Club, 800 92248, www.4yachtarabia.ae
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa,
Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah,
+971 92449888, www.rotana.com
Ghantoot Marina & Resort, Abu Dhabi,
+971 529933153, www.ghantootmarina.com
Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai,
+971 558961276, +971 503960202,
www.happydaysdubai.com
JPS Yachts and Charter, Room 225,
Emarat Atrium building, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, +971 43437734, www.jpsyachts.com
Khasab Divers, Oman, +971 567255889,
khasab.diver2@gmail.com
Khasab Musandam Travel & Tours,
PO Box 411, Khasab, Musandam,
+968 93350703, info@tourkhasab.com
Khour Shem Tourism, Oman,
+968 26731919, www.khourshemtours.com
LY Catamaran, Dubai, +971 505869746,
+971 566506683, www.lycatamaran.com
Marine Concept, Dubai, +971 559603030,
Pavilion Marina, Dubai,

Jumeirah Beach Hotel, +971 44068800
The PearlQatar Marinas, Doha, Qatar,
+974 4965801, www.ronauticame.com
Umm Al Quwaim Marine Sports Club,
Umm Al Quwaim, +971 67666644,
www.uaqmarineclub.com
Dragon Boat Groups
Dubai Dawn Patrol Dragon Boating,
Dubai, +971 508795645 (Michael),
www.dubaidawnpatrol.org
Dubai Diggers, Jumeirah Beach Hotel,
pier next to 360, Dubai, +971 501547175
(Nick Hando), www.dubai-diggers.com
UAE Dragon Boat Association,
+971 507634008,
www.dubaidragonboat.com
Camping & Hiking
www.marine-charter-concept.com
Nautica1992, Dubai, +971 504262415,
www.nautica1992.ae
Noukhada Adventure Company, Villa 332/7,
Al Meena Street, Abu Dhabi, +971 26503600,
www.noukhada.ae
RAK Marine LLC, Ras Al Khaimah City Hilton
Marina, +971 504912696, +971 72066410
Sea Hunters Passenger Yachts & Boats
Rental, Dubai Marina, +971 42951011
Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam,
+971 503336046, www.sheesabeach.com
Smoke Dragon Of London Yacht, Abu
Dhabi International Marine & Sports Club,
+971 507011958 / +971 504546617
Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai,
+971 42573084
The Club, Abu Dhabi, +971 26731111,
www.the-club.com
The Yellow Boats LLC, Dubai Marina Walk
opposite Spinneys, Intercontinental Hotel
Marina, +8008044, www.theyellowboats.com
Marinas
Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports
Club, Abu Dhabi, Breakwater,
+971 26815566, www.adimsc.com
Abu Dhabi Marina, Abu Dhabi,
Tourist Club Area, +971 26440300
Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam
+971 72682333 or 504873185,
www.aljeerport.ae
Al Mouj Marina, Muscat, Oman,
+968 24534554, www.almoujmarina.com
Al Wasl Charter & Fishing, Airport Road, Al
Qwais Bldg., Off. 207, Dubai, UAE,
+971 42394760-61, www.cruiseindubai.com
Dubai Creek Marina, Deira, Dubai,
+971 43801234, www.dubaigolf.com
Dubai International Marine Sports Club,
Dubai Marina, +971 43995777, www.dimc.ae
Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai,
+971 43627900,
www.dubaimarinayachtclub.com
Dubai Maritime City Harbour Marina,
Dubai, +971 43455545
Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, Dubai,
+971 43941669, www.dosc.ae
Emirates Palace Marina, Abu Dhabi,
+971 43388955
Four Seasons Marina, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44948899, www.mourjanmarinas.com
Fujairah International Marine Club,
Fujairah, +971 92221166, www.fimc.ae
Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Marina,
Al Bateen, Intercontinental Hotel, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26666888, www.intercontinental.com
Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa Marina,
Jebel Ali, Dubai,
+971 48145555/5029,
www.jebelali-international.com
Lusail Marina, Lusail City, Qatar,
+974 55843282,
www.mourjan-lusailmarina.com
Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, Muscat, Oman,
+968 24737286 (ext 215),
www.marinaoman.net
Equipment
Blingmytruck.com, +971 505548255,
www.blingmytruck.com
Gulf Camping, Dubai, UAE,
www.gulfcamping.com
Jack Wolfskin, Mirdif City Centre Dubai,
+971 42840228; Al Wahda Mall,
Abu Dhabi,+971 24437802
Picnico General Trading, near Sharaf DG
Metro Station, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+971 43951113
Tresspass, 2nd floor above ice rink,
The Dubai Mall, +971 43398801
Tour Operators
Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971 559556209,
www.arabiaoutdoors.com
Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +971 43459900,
www.adventure.ae
Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza 503,
Dubai, +971 42959428, www.arabiatours.com
Libra, +971 559228362, www.libra-uae.com
Mountain High Middle East, Dubai,
+971 43480214, www.mountainhighme.com
Sheesa Beach, Musandam, Dibba,
Caving
Mountain High Middle East, Dubai,

+971 43480214, www.mountainhighme.com
Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre, Oman,
+968 24543002, www.holiday-in-oman.com
Oman World Tourism, Oman,
+968 99431333,
www.omanworldtourism.com
Climbing
Equipment
www.adventurehq.ae
Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai,
Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, +971 43466558,
www.barracudadubai.com
Global Climbing Trading LLC,
Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai,
+971 48829361, www.globalclimbing.com

Clubs
Abu Dhabi Tri Club, www.abudhabitriclub.com
Cycle Safe Dubai, Dubai Autodrome
www.cyclechallenge.ae
Dubai Roadsters, www.dubairoadsters.com
Diving
Jack Wolfskin
Mirdif City Centre Dubai, +971 42840228;
Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi +971 24437802
Services
Absolute Adventure, Dubai,
+971 43459900, www.adventure.ae
www.adventurehq.ae
Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26429995, www.alshaheenme.com
Dorell Sports Management, Dubai World
Trade Centre, +971 43065061,
www.climbingdubai.com
E-Sports UAE, Dubai, +971 42824540,
www.esportsuae.com
The Club, Abu Dhabi, +971 26731111,
www.the-club.com
Information
UAE Climbing, +971 506456491,
www.uaeclimbing.com
Mountain Biking & Cycling
Equipment/Dealers
Bikers JLT, Unit H6, Cluster H,
Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, UAE,
+971 526221888, products@allbikers.net
Cycle Sports, Shop No. 1, Al Waleed Bldg., Al
Barsha 1, Dubai, +971 43415415,
www.cyclesportsuae.com
Fun Ride Sports, 301, 3rd floor, Mushrif Mall,
Abu Dhabi, Rm. 4, Mezzanine floor,
C-13 Bldg., Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi,
info@funridesports.com,
www.funridesports.com
Micahs Bike Shop, Warehouse no.4
6th St. Al Quoz 3, Dubai, +971 43805228
Peak Performance, Mall of the Emirates,
Dubai Mall, Dubai,
+971 43413056 / +971 43308023
Probike, Dubai, Al Barsha 1,
+971 43255705, www.probike.ae
Rage Shop, Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates,
Dubai Festival City,
+971 43369007, www.rage-shop.com
Revolution Cycles, Shop G05, Apex
Atrium, Motor City, Dubai, +971 43697441,
www.rcdxb.com
Ride Bike Shop, Dubai Mall, Festival City,
Oasis Centre, Mirdif City Centre,
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43750231,
www.ridebikeshop.com
Sportz Unlimited, Sheikh Zayed Road & Jebel
Ali, Dubai, + 971 43388644
Tamreen Sports LLC, Khalifa Street,
Abu Dhabi, +971 26222525,
www.tamreensports.com
The Cycle Hub, Motor City, Dubai,
+971 505528872, www.thecyclehub.com
Trek Bicycle Store, Seih Al Salam,
Al Qudra Road, Dubai, +971 48327377,
www.trekbikes.ae
Trikke uPT, Dubai, +971 45081202,
+971 556096757, www.trikkeme.net
Wolfis Bike Shop, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road,
+971 43394453, www.wbs.ae
Operator
+971 43459900, +971 506259165,
www.adventure.ae, info@adventure.ae
Equipment
Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, +971
42894858, www.alboommarine.com
Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment,
Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, +971 43444468
Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road,
+971 43468000, Dubai
Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha
Blue Waters Marine, +971 42232189, Dubai,
Gulf Marine Sports, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26710017, www.gulfmarinesports.com
Premiers for Equipment, Abu Dhabi,
Sh. Zayed 1st. Road, +971 26665226,
www.premiers-uae.com
Scuba Dubai, Al Barsha, Al Khail Road, Dubai,
+97143414940, info@scubadubai.com
Scuba 2000, Al Bidiya Beach, Fujairah, +971
92388477, www.scuba-2000.com
Diving Centres
Al Boom Diving (equipment),
Dubai, Al Wasl Rd, +971 43422993,
www.alboomdiving.com
Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam,
+971 72682333, www.aljeerport.ae
Al Mahara Dive Center, near Muroor St across
from main bus terminal,
+971 26437377, info@divemahara.com,
www.divemahara.com
Arabian Diver, Hilton Marine, Ras Al Khaimah,
+971 72226628, +971 502428128
www.arabiandiver.com
Arabian Divers and Sportfishing
Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort,
Abu Dhabi, +971 506146931,
www.fishabudhabi.com
Coastal Technical Divers,
glenn@coastaltechnicaldivers.com,
www.coastaltechnicaldivers.com
Deep Blue Sea Diving, International City,
Dubai, +971 44308246, www.diveindubai.com
Desert Islands, Sir Bani YAs Island,
Abu Dhabi, UAE, +971 28015400,
www.divemahara.com
Divers Down, Fujairah, Rotana Al Aqah Hotel
Resort & Spa, +971 92370299,
www.diversdown-uae.com
Emirates Divers Centre, Abu Dhabi,
near Meena Fish Market, +97126432444,
www.edc-ad.ae
Euro-Divers Oman, Muscat, Oman,
+968 95035815, www.euro-divers.com
Extra Divers Ziggy Bay, Oman, Musandam,
+968 26735555, www.extradivers.info
Freediving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah,
contactus@freedivinguae.com,
www.freedivinguae.com
Freestyle Divers, Dubai, Al Wasl & Dibba,
Royal Beach Hotel, +971 43944275,
www.freestyledivers.com
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa - Al Aqah
Beach, Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah,
+971 92449888, www.rotana.com
Global Scuba Dive Center, Civil Aviation Club,
Oman, +968 99317518,
www.global-scuba.com
Khasab Divers, Oman,
www.khasabdiver.com
Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort,
Dibba Road, Fujairah, +971 92449000,
www.lemeridien-alaqah.com
Moonlight Dive Center,
Madinat Qaboos, Oman, +968 99317700,
www.moonlightdive.com
Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre,
Oman, +971 503289642,
www.holiday-in-oman.com
Neptune Diving, +971 504347902,
www.neptunedivingcentre.com
Nomad Ocean Adventures,
www.discovernomad.com,
+971 508853238, Dibba, Oman
Oman Dive Center, Muscat, Oman,
+968 24284240, www.omadivecenter.com
Pavilion Dive Centre (equipment), Dubai,
+971 44068828
Scuba Oman, Oman, +968 99558488,
www.scubaoman.com
Scuba 2000, Al Bidiya Beach, Fujairah,
+971 92388477, www.scuba-2000.com
Scuba UAE.com, +971 502053922,
www.scubauae.com
7 Seas Diving Center, Khorfakkan,
+971 92387400, www.7seasdivers.com
Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah, +971
50784 0830, www.bsac406.com

Sky &Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton, Jumeirah
Beach Road, +971 43999005,
www.watersportsdubai.com
The Dive Shop, 34G, European Center, Green
Community, Dubai, UAE,
+971 48135474, www.thediveshopdubai.com
Clubs
Atlantis Underwater Photography Club,
Dubai, +971 44263000
Desert Sports Diving Club, Dubai,
www.desertsportsdivingclub.net
Emirates Diving Association, Diving Village, Al
Shindagha, Dubai,
+971 43939390, www.emiratesdiving.com
Filipino SCUBA Divers Club (FSDC),
Dubai, UAE, +971 566952421,
www.thefilipinoscubadivers.com
Freediving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah,
contactus@freedivinguae.com,
www.freedivinguae.com
Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah, +971
507840830, www.bsac406.com
Fishing & Kayaking
Equipment
Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai,
+971 42894858, www.alboommarine.com
Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment,
Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai,
+971 43444468
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed
Road, +971 43468000,
Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd,
Arabian Divers and Sportfishing
Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort,
Abu Dhabi, +971 506146931,
www.fishabudhabi.com
Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai, Street
13A 1, Al Safa 1, +971 43466558,
www.barracudadubai.com
Blue Waters Marine, Shop 11,
The Curve Bldg., Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+971 43808616 / +971 553899995,
Challenging Adventure, Wadi Al Bih Ras Al Khaimah, +971 561060798,
contactus@challengingadventure.com
Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai,
Ocean Active, Dubai, Garden Centre,
+971 502898713, www.oceanactive.com
Operators
+971 43459900, www.adventure.ae
Al Boom Diving, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach
Resort, Fujairah, +971 43422993
Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club, Al Hamra,
Ras Al Khaimah, +971 72434540,
www.alhamramarina.com
Al Mahara Dive Center,
Downtown Abu Dhabi, +971 501118125,
www.divemahara.com
Al Wasl Charter & Fishing, Airport Road, Al
Qwais Bldg., Off. 207, Dubai, UAE, +974 4
2394760-61, www.cruiseindubai.com
Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26429995, www.alshaheenme.com
Al Wasl Charter & Fishing (Al Wasl
Passenger Yachts and Boats Rental LLC),
THE
SPECIALIST
ONLINE
ADVENTURE
R E TA I L E R
SWISS EXCELLENCE IN SPORTS NUTRITION
Your Energy & Performance Companion

Recovery Drinks Energy Gels
Protein Smoothies
Electrolyte & Isotonic Drinks

Nutrition & Cereal Bars
/Sponser.uae
WWW.SPONSERUAE.COM
BROUGHT TO YOU BY :
info@hercules-health-fitness.com
Airport Road, Al Owais Building, Dubai,

+971 42394761, www.cruiseindubai.com
Arabian Divers and Sportfishing Charters, Al
Bateen Marina Resort,
+971 506146931, www.fishabudhabi.com
Barracuda Diving Centre, Fujairah
International Marine Club, +971 9222558
Belevari Marine, Abu Dhabi, +971 26594144
Captain Tonys, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu
Dhabi, +971 26507175, www.captaintonys.ae
Fun Beach Water Sports, Dubai,
+971 53244550, www.funbeachsports.com
Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai,
+971 558961276, +971 503960202,
www.happydaysdubai.com
Hiltonia Beach Club, Hilton Abu Dhabi Hotel,
Abu Dhabi, +971 26811900
Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort,
Dibba Road, Fujairah, +971 92449000,
www.lemeridien-alaqah.com
Nautica 1992, Dubai, +971 504262415,
www.nautica1992.ae
Noukhada Adventure Company,
Villa 332/7, Al Meena Street, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26503600, www.noukhada.ae
Ocean Active, Dubai, Garden Centre,
+971 502898713, www.oceanactive.com
Soolyman Sports Fishing, Dubai,
Umm Suqeim, +971 508866227,
www.soolymansportsfishing.com
Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai,
+971 42573084, www.summertimemarine.com
Xclusive Yachts, Dubai, Dubai Marina,
+971 44327233, www.xclusiveyachts.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Camping, Fishing & Kayaking
Club, mohamed.almahrouky@gmail.com
Dubai Surfski & Kayak Club, Kitesurfers
Beach, Umm Suqeim 1, Dubai,
+971 554986280, www.dskc.hu
General Sports Equipment

Distributors

Sheikh Zayed Rd, Toll free: 800-ADVENTURE,
www.adventurehq.ae
Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
800 Sport, Al Quoz, Dubai
+971 43467751, www.800sport.ae
Flip Flop Arabia, flipme@flipfloparabia.com,
www.flipfloparabia.com
Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai
Goal Zero, +971 509128353,
www.goalzero.ae
Highbury Trading, Dubai, UAE,
www.highburytrading.ae
Jack Wolfskin Mirdif City Centre Dubai,
+971 42840228; Al Wahda Mall Abu Dhabi,
+971 44437802
Ocean Sports FZE, +971 559352735,
www.kitesurfsup.com
PORTABLE SHADE UAE, Jebel Ali, Dubai,
UAE, +971 4 3469600,
www.portable-shade.net
OUTDOORUAE
71

Sakeen General Trading, +971 47094224,
www.sakeen.ae
Sport in Life Distribution, Nad Al Hammar
Rd., Ras Al Khor, Dubai, UAE,
+971 42896001, +971 42896002,
info@sportinlife.ae, www.sportinlife.ae
Tresspass, The Dubai Mall
2nd floor above ice rink, +971 43398801
Horse Riding
Equipment
Al Asifa Horse Equestrian
& Requisites Trading, Al Khawaneej 1,
Dubai, +971 554733110, www.asifa.ae
Black Horse LLC, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26422237, www.blackhorseuae.com
Bonjour Equestrian Supplies,
Nad Al Hammar Rd., Ras Al Kho, Dubai,
UAE, +971 42896001, +971 42896002,
info@bonjourequestrian.com,
www.bonjourequestrian.com
Cavalos Equine Care and Supplies,
16th Street, Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi,
+917 22222433, www.cavalosuae.com
Emirta Horse Requirement Centre,
Sheik Zayed Rd, Dubai, +971 43437475,
www.emirtahorse.com
Equestrian Clubs/Centres
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Al Mushrif,
Abu Dhabi, +971 24455500,
www.adec-web.com
Al Ahli Riding School, Al Amman Street,
Dubai-Sharjah Rd., +971 42988408,
www.alahliclub.info
Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu
Dhabi, +971 25568555, www.alforsan.com
Al Jiyad Stables, Behind Dubai International
Endurance City, Dubai, +971 505995866,
info@aljiyad.com, www.aljiyad.com
Al Sahra Desert Resort Equestrian Centre,
Dubai, +971 44274055,
equestrian.centre@alsahra.com
Desert Equestrian Club, Mirdif, Dubai,
+971 503099770 / +971 501978888
Desert Palm Riding School, Near Al Awir
Road (going to Hatta-Oman),
Dubai, +971 43238010,
www.desertpalm.peraquum.com
Dubai Polo Academy, Dubai,
+971 508879847, www.dubaipoloacademy.com
Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai,
Arabian Ranches, +971 43618111,
www.poloclubdubai.com
Emirates Equestrian Centre, Dubai,
+971 505587656,
www.emiratesequestriancentre.com
Ghantoot Polo & Racing Club, Exit 399,
Abu Dhabi/ Dubai Highway, Abu Dhabi,
+971 25629050, www.grpc.ae
Golden Stables Equestrian Club, Al
Khawaneej, Dubai, (Nouri) +971 555528182,
www.goldenstables.ae
HoofbeatZ, located just inside the Dubai
Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai,
+971 501810401, www.hoofbeatz.com
Mushrif Equestrian and Polo Club,
Mushrif Park, Al Khawaneej Road, Dubai,
+971 42571256, www.mushrifec.com
Qudraland Community,
info@qudraland.com, www.qudraland.com
Rahal Ranch, Al Wathba Racing Area,
Abu Dhabi, +971 566127914,
www.rahalranch.com
Riding for the Disabled, Dubai,
lessons@rdad.ae, www.rdad.ae,
Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club,
Sharjah, Al Dhaid Road,
+971 65311188, www.serc.ae
Racecourses
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Al Mushrif, Abu
Dhabi, +971 24455500, www.adec-web.com
Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club, Exit 399,
Abu Dhabi/ Dubai Highway, Abu Dhabi,
+971 25629050, www.grpc.ae
Jebel Ali Racecourse, off the main Abu
Dhabi - Dubai Highway (Sheikh Zayed road)
beside the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai,
+971 43474914
Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse,
Al Meydan Road, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai,
+971 43270000, www.meydan.ae
Sharjah Racecourse, Al Dhaid Road,
Sharjah, +971 65311155, www.serc.ae
Jet Ski
Dealers
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai,

Sheikh Zayed Road, +971 43468000,
Japan Marine General Trading,
Al Garhoud Road, Liberty Building, Dubai,
+971 559299111 / +971 42828255,
uday@japanmarine.jp, www.japanmarine.co
Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange 4,
www.libertykawasaki.com
Motocross & ATVs
Dealers
Al Badayer Rental (Rental),
Dubai-Hatta Road, +971 507842020,
www.albadayerrental.com
Al Shaali Moto, Ras Al Khor,
+971 43200009, sales@alshaalimoto.com.
www.alshaalimoto.com
Golden Desert Motorcycles
Rental (Rental), Dubai-Hatta Road, Dubai,
+971 551532550, www.goldendesert-dubai.com
Just Gas It, Hatta Rd., Al Aweer, Dubai, UAE,
+971 509192394, www.JustGasIt.net
KTM, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, exit 42,
+971 4323151, www.ktm.com
Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange 4,
Polaris UAE (atvs), Ras Al Khor, Nad al
Hamar Road, Al Ghandi Complex, Dubai,
+971 42896100, M4, Sector 13,
10th Street, Mussafah Industrial, Abu Dhabi,
+971 25555144, www.polarisuae.com
Sebsports, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1
Dubai, +971 43393399, www.sebsports.com
Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai,
+971 48321050, www. wildx.ae
Equipment
Dubai, +971 42959429, www.arabiantours.com
Sandstorm Motorcycles (Rental),
Al Quoz, Dubai, +971 43470270,
www.sandstorm-motorcycles.com
Sebsports, Dubai, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3,
+971 43393399, www.sebsports.com
2XWheeler, Motorcity Dubai,
+971 44548388, www.2xwheeler.com
Wild X, Dubai, Um Al Ramoul Industrial Area,
+971 42852200, www. wildx.ae
Workshops and Services
Moto-X and Quad, PO Box 476214, Dubai,
UAE, +971 50 6169727, www.gasgasmotos.me
Motorcycling

www.aym.ae/yamaha
Ducati, Mussafah 4, Street 10, Abu Dhabi,
+971 25535771, info2@ducati.ae,
www.ducati.ae
Duseja Motorcycles, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43476712, www.dusejamoto.com
Harley-Davidson, Mussafah 4, Street 10,
Abu Dhabi, +971 25540667,
hd.auh@harley-davidson.ae,
www.harley-davidson-abu-dhabi.com
Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange4,
Polaris UAE, Al Ghandi Complex,
Nad al Hamar Road, Ras Al Khor,
+971 42896100, www.polarisuae.com
Tristar Motorcycles, +971 43330659,
www.tristaruae.com
Workshops and Services
Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu
72
OUTDOORUAE
Dhabi, +971 25568555, www.alforsan.com

Dubai Autodrome, Dubai, +971 43678700
www.dubaiautodrome.com
Emirates Motorplex, Umm Al Quwain,
+971 67681717
2xWheeler Adventures, Dubai,
+971 44548388, www.alainraceway.com
Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi,
www.yasmarinacircuit.com
Off-Road
Dealers
Bling My Truck,
+971 503634839 / +971 505548255,
info@blingmytruck.com, www.blingmytruck.com
4x4 Motors LLC, Shk. Zayed Rd, Dubai,
+971 43384866, www.4x4motors.com
Liberty Automobiles, Dubai, 800 5423789,
www.libertyautos.com
Repairs and Services
AAA Service Centre, Al Quoz, Dubai, UAE,
+971 4 285 8989, www.aaadubai.com
Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +971 43382744,
www.icon-auto.com
Mebar Auto, Al Quoz, Industrial Area 2,
Dubai, UAE, +971 4 3469600,
www.mebarauto.com
Off Road Zone, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43392449, www.offroad-zone.com
Saluki Motorsport, Dubai, +971 43476939
www.salukimotorsport.com
Equipment
Advanced Expedition Vehicles,
Dubai & Abu Dhabi, +971 43307152, www.aev.ae
Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, +971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha
Bling My Truck,
+971 503634839 / +971 505548255,
info@blingmytruck.com, www.blingmytruck.com
Heartland UAE, Al Mafraq Industrial,
Abu Dhabi, +971 567231967,
www.heartlanduae.com
Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +971 43382744,
www.icon-auto.com
Mebar Auto, Al Quoz, Industrial Area 2,
Dubai, UAE, +971 4 3469600,
www.mebarauto.com
Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai-Hatta Road,
Dubai, +971 48321050, www.wildx.ae
Yellow Hat, Nad Al Hamar, and Times Square
Center, Dubai, +971 42898060,
www.yellowhat.ae
Tour Operators
Arabian Adventures, Dubai & Abu Dhabi,
+971 43034888, www.arabian-adventures.com
Dubai, +971 42959429, www.arabiantours.com
Oasis Palm Dubai, Dubai, +971 4 2628832
or 4 2686826, www.opdubai.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Off- Road Club, www.ad4x4.com
ALMOST 4x4 Off-Road Club,
+971 507665522, www.almost4x4.com
Dubai Offroaders, www.dubaioffroaders.com
JEEP Wrangler JK Fun Club,
suffian.omar@yahoo.com, www.jk-funclub.com
ME 4X4, www.me4x4.com
Running
Clubs
ABRasAC, Dubai, www.abrasac.org
Abu Dhabi Tri Club, Abu Dhabi,
www.abudhabitriclub.org
Abu Dhabi Striders,
admin@abudhabistriders.com,
www.abudhabistriders.com
Al Ain Road Runners, Abu Dhabi,
+971 504188978, alainroadrunners@yahoo.co.uk
Mirdif Milers, Dubai, www.mirdifmilers.info
Dubai Creek Striders
www.dubaicreekstriders.org
Stand up Paddling, Kite &

Surfing, Wakeboarding
Equipment
Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai,
+971 42894858, www.alboommarine.com
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai,
Iknic Brands, Suite 509 Dsseldorf
Business Point Al Barsha Dubai, UAE
+971 506874178, info@ikonicbrands.com
Kitesurf Dubai, Kitesurf Beach,
Umm Suqueim and Jumeirah 3
+971 505586190, www.kitesurfdubai.ae
Pearl Water Crafts,
Dubai Marina Yacht Club, +971 553749398,
www.pearl-watercrafts.com
Picnico, Jumeirah Beach Road
Opposite Sunset Mall, Dubai, +971 43941653
Surf Dubai, Dubai, Umm Suqeim,
+971 505043020, www.surfingdubai.com
Surf Shop Arabia, Building 1,
Al Manara Road (East), Interchange 3, Dubai,
+971 43791998, www.surfshoparabia.com

Surf School Arabia, +971 556010997,
www.surfschoolarabia.com
UAE Kite Surfing, +971 505626383,
www.ad-kitesurfing.net
Distributors
Kitepeople Kite & Surf Store,
International City, Dubai,
+971 504559098, www.kitepeople.ae
Ocean Sports FZE, +971 559352735,
www.kitesurfsup.com
Operators
Al Forsan International Sports Resort,
Abu Dhabi, +971 25568555, www.alforsan.com
Dubai Kite Surf School, Dubai,
Umm Suqeim Beach, +971 504965107,
www.dubaikitesurfschool.com
Duco Maritime, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah
and Abu Dhabi, +971 508703427,
www.ducomaritime.com
Dukite, Kitesurf Beach, Umm Suqeim,
Dubai,+971 507586992, www.dukite.com
Kite Fly, Dubai, +971 502547440,
www.kitesurf.ae
Kite4fun.net, Abu Dhabi, +971 508133134,
www.kite4fun.net
Kitepro Abu Dhabi, Yas Island
and Al Dabbayyah, Abu Dhabi,
+971 505441494, www.kitepro.ae
Nautica1992, Dubai, +971 504262415,
www.nautica1992.ae
Shamal Kite Surfing, Umm Suqueim Dubai,
+971 507689226, astrid@shamalkitesurfing.com,
www.shmalkitesurfing.com
Sky & Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton,
Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 43999005,
www.watersportsdubai.com
Surf School UAE, Umm Suqeim Beach
and Building 1, Al Manara Road (East),
Interchange 3, Dubai,+971 556010997,
www.surfschooluae.com
Watercooled, Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa,
Dubai, +971 48876771,
www.watercooleddubai.com
Water Cooled, Watercooled Sports Services
LLC, Hilton Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, UAE,
+971 26395997, www.watercooleduae.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle,
www.abudhabisup.com
UAE SUP www.uaesup.com
Water Parks
Aquaventure Atlantis, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah,

+971 44260000, www.atlantisthepalm.ae
Dreamland Aqua Park, Umm Al Quwain,
Emirates Road, +971 67681888,
www.dreamlanduae.com
Wadi Adventure, Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain,
+971 37818422, www.wadiadventure.ae
Wild Wadi Water Park, Dubai,
+971 43484444, www.wildwadi.com
Other leisure activities
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Abu Dhabi,

+ 971 25588990, www.adgolfclub.com
Al Tamimi Stables, Sharjah,
+971 67431122 / +971 44370505,
www.tamimistables.com
Blokart Sailing, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai,
+971 556101841, www.blokartme.com
DUBAI
INTERNATIONAL
MOTOR SHOW
10 -14 NOV 2015
DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE
W H AT D R I V E S Y O U ?
DUBAIMOTORSHOW.COM
Organised by
Official Tire
Official Airline Partner
Official Event
DUBAIMOTORSHOW
Official Event Partners
Official Courier Handler
DXBMOTORSHOW
Promotion Partner
Event TV Partner
Official Music Partner
Official Publisher
Official Travel Partner
Distribution Partners
DUBAIMOTORSHOW
Adventure tours
and desert safaris
Bike and Hike Oman, PO Box 833, Ruwi,

Postal Code 112, Oman, +968 24400873,
www.bikeandhikeoman.com
Dolphin Qasab Tours, PO Box: 123, P.C.
QATAR DIRECTORY
Adventure tours and desert
safaris
Al Mulla Travels, PO Box: 4147, Doha, Qatar,

+974 44413488, almullatrvls@qatar.net.qa
Alpha Tours, PO Box: 13530, Doha, Qatar,
+974 4837815, info@alphatoursqatar.com
Al QAYED Travel & Tours, PO Box: 158,
Doha, Qatar, +974 44072244,
www.alqayedtravel.com
Arabian Adventures, PO Box: 4476, Doha,
Qatar, +974 44361461,
www.arabianadventureqatar.net
Black Pearls Tourism Services,
PO Box: 45677, Doha, Qatar
East Marine, West Bay, Doha, Qatar,
+974 55200078
E2E Qatar Travel and Tours,
PO Box: 23563, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44502521, www.e2eqatar.com
Falcon Travels, PO Box: 22031, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44354777, www.falcontravelqatar.com
Gulf Adventures, 29, PO Box: 18180 Qatar,
+974 44221888, www.gulf-adventures.com
Net Tours Qatar, PO Box: 23080, Doha,
Qatar, +974 4310902, www.nettours.com.qa
Regency Travel & Tours, +974 4434
4503/4718, www.regencyholidays.com
Qatar Adventure, PO Box: 13915,
Doha, Qatar, +974 55694561,
www.qataradventure.com
Qatar Desert Gate, Doha, PO Box: 18496
Ad Dawha, Qatar, +974 55594016,
www.qatardesertgate.com
Qatar Inbound Tours, PO Box: 21153,
+974 77451196,
www.inboundtoursqatar.com
Qatar International Tours, PO Box: 55733
Doha, Qatar, +974 44551141,
www.qittour.com
Qatar Ventures, Doha, Qatar, +974
55776679, www.qatar-ventures.com
Clubs
Cycling, Running & Triathlon

Doha Sailing Club, Katara Beach
+974 44439840/+974 55649995
www.qmsf.com
SkiDubai, Dubai, Mall of The Emirates,

+971 44094000, www.skidxb.com
Spacewalk Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi,
+971 24463653, www.spacewalk.ae
811, Khasab City, Musandam, Oman,

+968 26730813,
www.dolphinkhasabtours.com
Go Dive Oman, Capital Area Yacht Club
(CAYC), Sidab Muscat, +968 99289200,
www.godiveoman.com
Nomad Tours, PO Box: 583, Postal Code
100, Muscat, Oman, +968 95495240,
www.nomadtours.com
Oman Trekking Guides, PO Box: 917,
NIZWA, Oman, +968 95741441,
www.omantrekkingguides.com
+968 99877957, www.musandam-diving.com

Global Scuba LLC, +968 24692346,
www.global-scuba.com
Moon Light Dive Center, P.O. Box: 65,
Madinat Qaboos, Muscat Oman,
+968 99317700, www.moonlightdive.com
Oman Dive Center Resort, PO Box: 199,
Medinat Sultan Qaboos, Oman,
+968 24824240, www.omandivecenter.info
Omanta Scuba Diving Academy, Al Kharjiya
Street, Al Shati Area, Muscat, Oman, +968
97700564, www.omantascuba.com
Oxygen Diving and Adventures, PO Box:
1363 PC130 Alazaiba, Muscat, Oman,
www.o2diveoman.com
Seaoman, PO Box: 2394, RUWI PC 112,
Oman, +968 24181400, www.seaoman.com
Sub Aqua Dive Center, Hilton Salalah
Resort, PO Box: 699, Salalah 211, Oman,
+968 99894031,
www.subaqua-divecenter.com
Omans Kite Center, +968 94006007,

www.kitesurfing-lessons.com
Stand Up Paddeling, Kite

& Surfing, Wakeboarding
Manufacturer
Saphire Marine, PO Box: 11, Post Code 118,
Muscat, Oman, +968 99877243,
www.sapphire-marine.com
Equipment
Al Marsa Musandam, PO Box: 44, Dibba,
Sultanate of Oman, +968 26836550,
www.almarsamusandam.com
Al Sawadi Beach Resort, PO Box: 747,
Barka - Al Sawadi, Oman, +968 26795545,
www.alsawadibeach.info
Diving UAE & Oman,
www.dive-uae-oman.com
Euro Divers CAYC Oman, Marina Bandar Al
Rhowda, PO Box: 940, Muscat, Oman,
+968 95035815, www.euro-divers.com
Extra Divers Musandam, PO Box: 498,
PC 811 Khasab, Musandam, Oman,
Qatar Chain Reaction,

www.qatarchainreaction.weebly.com
Qatar Sandstromers, +974 77775207
/ +974 77776634, www.facebook.com/
QatarSandstormers
Velostar Doha, https://www.facebook.com/
groups/587539064642288/
Doha Bay Running Club,
www.dohabayrunningclub.com
TriClub Doha, www.triclubdoha.com
General Sports
Equipment Megastores
Galaxy Sport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor,

Qatar: +974 44822194; Villagio Mall, Qatar:
+974 44569143; Ezdan Mall, Qatar: +974
44922827, www.galaxysportqatar.com
GO Sport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor, Qatar:
+974 44631644; Villaggio Mall, Qatar:
+974 44517574,
www.facebook.com/gosport.qatar
Sun & Sand Sports, City Centre Mall, Qatar:
+974 44837007; Dar Al Salam Mall, Qatar:
+974 44932973,
www.sunandsandsports.com
Boating & Sailing
Equipment
Regatta Sailing Academy, Katara Beach
+974 55503484
www.regattasailingacademy.com
Speed Marine, Speed Marine, Museum
Road, PO Box: 9145 Doha, Qatar, +974
44410109, www.speedmarinegroup.com
Horse Riding
Equestrian Clubs/Centres
Al Shaqab, PO Box: 90055, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44546320, www.alshaqab.com
Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club, Racing
and Equestrian Club, PO Box: 7559, Doha,
Qatar, +974 44197664, www.qrec.gov.qa
Diving
Equipment/Centres
Al Fardan Marine Services, Najma Street
(near Al Fardan Exchange), Doha, Qatar,
+974 44435626
Doha Sub Aqua Club, Doha Sub-Aqua Club,
Add your free listing to the

74
OUTDOORUAE
Dusseldorf Business Point, Al Barsha 1,

Dubai, +971 44502418, www.sltme.com
Sport and Health Centres
Bespoke Wellness, Dubai,
+971 553724670, www.bespoke-wellness.com
Original Fitness Co., C6 Tower Al Bateen
Bainunah St, Abu Dhabi, +971 2406 9404,
www.originalfitnessco.com
Orthosports, 5B Street, Jumeira Beach road,
Dubai, +971 4355060, www.orthosp.com
The Physio Center, Suite 405, Building 49,
Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai,
+971 44370570, www.physiocentre.ae
Childrens City, Creek Park Gate No.1,

Dubai, +971 43340808, www.childrencity.ae
Dolphin Bay Atlantis, Dubai,
+971 44260000, www.atlantisthepalm.ae
Dubai Dolphinarium Dubai, Creek Park Gate
No. 1, +971 43369773,
www.dubaidolphinarium.ae
iFly Dubai, Dubai, Mirdif City Centre,
+971 42316292, www.iflyme.com
Sadiyaat Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat
Island, +971 25578000, www.sbgolfclub.ae
Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, Sharjah,
+971 43999005, www.golfandshootingshj.com
Diving
OMAN DIRECTORY
Health, Safety & Training
Safety Lessons
Marine Concept Yacht Charter
& Sea School, Rania Business Centre,
Dubai, +971 559603030,
www.marine-charter-concept.com
Safety & Leisure Training Middle East,
Equipment, Operators
Kiteboarding Oman, Sawadi Beach,
PO Box: 133, PC 118, Muscat, Oman,
+968 96323524, www.kiteboarding-oman.com

+974 66304061, www.dohasubaquaclub.com
Extreme Adventure, PO Box: 33002, Shop
3, 4 Ahmed Bin Ali Street (Bin Omran), Doha,
Qatar, +974 44877884, www.extreme.qa
GoSport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor,
Qatar: +974 44631644; Villagio Mall,
Qatar: +974 44517574,
www.facebook.com/gosport.qatar
Pearl Divers, PO Box: 2489, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44449553, www.pearl-divers.org
Poseidon Dive Center, Ras Abu Abboud
Street, Al Emadi Suites, Showroom #2,
+974 66084040, www.pdcqatar.com
Qatar Scuba Center, 187 Al Mansoura
Street, Al Mansoura Area, Doha, Qatar,
+974 66662277, www.qatarscubacenter.com
Q Dive, Souq Al Najada cnr of Grand Hamad
and Ali bin Abdulla Str.; Al-Odeid Aisle
numbers 129-132, +974 55319507,
www.qdive.net
World Marine Centre, PO Box: 6944,
Doha, Qatar, +974 44360989,
www.worldmarinecenter.webs.com
Pearl Divers, Al Mirqab Al Jadeed Street,
Doha, Qatar,
+974 4444 9553, www.pearl-divers.org
Poseidon Dive Center, Ras Abu Abboud
Street, Al Emadi Suites, Showroom #2,
+974 66084040, www.pdcqatar.com
Qatar Divers, Marriott Hotel Marina Near Old
Airport, Ras Abu Aboud Area, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44313331, www.qatardivers.com
Qatar Marine, Go Sport City Center
West Bay, PO Box: 16657, Doha,
+974 553199507, www.qatarmarine.net
Qatar Scuba Centre, 187 Al Mansoura
Street, Al Mansoura Area, Doha, Qatar,
+974 66662277 / +974 44422234,
www.qatarscubacenter.com
Qdive Marine Center, PO Box: 16657, Doha,
Qatar, +974 44375065, www.qdive.net
World Marine Centre, Old Salata Street,
near the Qatar National Museum, Doha,
Qatar, +974 55508177
Fishing & Kayaking
Equipment
Al Kashat, Fishing and Hunting Equipment,
Souq Waqif, next to the Falcon Souq,
Camping & Hiking
Tour Operators
Safari Desert Camp,
PO Box: 117, Postal Code 421,
Bediyah, Ghabbi, Oman,
+968 99310108,
www.safaridesert.com
Fishing & Kayaking
Equipment
AzZaha Tours, +968 99013424,
www.azzahatours.com
Water World Marine Oman,
POBox:76,Muscat,113,Sultanate
ofOman, +96824737438,
www.waterworldoman.com
Boating & Sailing
+974 66724828
Al Mamzoore Marine Equipment,
PO Box: 6449,Old Salata, Doha, Qatar, +974
44444238, almamzoore@qatar.net.qa
Extreme Adventure, Shop 3,4 Ahmed Bin Ali
Steet, Doha, +974 44877884,
www.extreme.qa
Fish World, PO Box: 1975, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44340754
State of Qatar (QatarSub), Souq Waqif,
next to the Falcon Souq, +974 4431234,
www.stateofqatar.com
Operators
Paddle Qatar, +974 55490895,
www.paddleqatar.com
Entalek, +974 3023 3207, www.entalek.org
Motocross & ATVs

Dealers
Qatar Adventures, Barwa Village, Building

# 9 Shop # 11, Doha, Qatar, +974 77700074
Stand Up Paddeling, Kite

& Surfing, Wakeboarding
Equipment, Operators
Fly-N-Ride, Ras abu Aboud, Doha,
+974 33117089, www.fly-n-ride.com
Flo Kite School, Westbay, Doha,
+974 55041039, www.flokiteschool.com
Kitesurfing Qatar, +97430179108,
www.kitesurfingqatar.com
QSUP, Qanat Quartier, Costa Malaz,
The Pearl-Qc, Doha, Qatar, +974 66602830,
www.qsup.me
Cycling (Road & Off Road)
Bike Servicing, Equipment

Carbon Wheels Bike Shop, Al Maha Center
10, Salwa Road, Doha, +974 44419048,
www.facebook.com/CarbonWheelsQTR
Flash Bike Shop, Mesaeed New Souq, Shop
C.06, +974 6600 9116,
www.flashbikeshop.com
Skate Shack, Salwa Road, South Doha,
+974 44692532, www.skate-shack.com
Galaxy Sport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor,
+974 44822194; Villaggio Mall, +974 4456
9143; Ezdan Mall, +974 4492 2827,
www.galaxysportqatar.com;
Sportswell, Salwa Road, South Doha,
+974 40165155 / 40165156
ONLINE DIRECTORY

#61 November 2015

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

#61 November 2015

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

THE CUBE

A FORGOTTEN UAE BOULDER

Clear waters, better dives

Classic style meets modern performance and

IN TOUCH WITH ITS PAST,

This is Pure American Luxury: The dramatic design

This powerful, versatile, next-generation bagger

MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2015 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Because I Got High

for the plain simplicity of it, but because it speaks

2015 Outdoor UAE FZE

Eulogy van Dyk

Katherine Caedo Patangui

EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS

The information contained is for general use only.

Helle Bachofen Von Echt

MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2015 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

10 DUBAI GLADIATORS CHALLENGE

22 BHUTAN: SNOWMAN TREK

20 ROMANIA: LOW BUDGET MOUNTAIN PARADISE

EVENT & ACTIVITY REPORTS

10 DUBAI GLADIATORS CHALLENGE

MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2015 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

50 LIFEPROOF IPHONE CASE

56 AN UNDERWATER CLEANUP - JAKE

62 THE BOULDER THAT UAE FORGOT

62 THE BOULDER THAT UAE FORGOT

53 IN SEARCH OF ALTITUDE EULOGY

MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2015 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

STAY UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LATEST EVENTS

ABU DHABI TOUR

PINK RUN 2015

A 5 or 10km run within the grounds of Zayed Sports City. A

2XU 5 STAR AQUATHLON

The Abu Dhabi Tri Club returns to the Emirates

Run along the beautiful The Track Golf

JLL ROY NASR MEMORIAL TRIATHLON

The first race of the JLL series, dedicated to the memory of

X-TRI CROSS COUNTRY TRIATHLON

2XU/GO SPORT TRIATHLON

Win a week-long holiday in the French Alps

MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2015 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

DUBAI OFF-ROAD AND ADVENTURE SHOW 2015

GULF BIKE WEEK

Ride hard in the regions premier biking lifestyle event. With

DUBAI GLADIATORS CHALLENGE

The fun adventure challenge for the whole family and

UAE WOODEN POWERBOAT RACE

Over 25 powerboats battle it out in this intense race.

When: October 29-31

CONTAGION RUN DUBAI 2015

Zombies and Survivors have never been this

WESTIN KILO MARATHON RUN 2015

WADI ADVENTURE RACE 10

Prepare to light up the front in the 10th Wadi

MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2015 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Grant on crux move of FA-Chumbawamba 6c+, The Wave, Hatta

Jumeirah Beach Shoreline