Emirati Mountaineer Fatima Al Awadhi Makes History with Summit of Antarctica’s Highest Peak

Emirati teenager Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi has etched her name into history after successfully summiting Mount Vinson, the highest peak in Antarctica, becoming the youngest and first Arab woman to achieve the feat at just 18 years old. The landmark ascent took place on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, marking a proud moment for the UAE and the wider Arab world.

Rising to 4,892 metres above sea level, Mount Vinson represents one of the most challenging climbs on Earth. With this achievement, Al Awadhi has completed the third peak in her ambitious Seven Summits journey a global challenge to climb the highest mountain on each continent.

Al Awadhi dedicated her historic success to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation,” in recognition of their steadfast support for Emirati youth and women. She praised their continued efforts to empower future generations and elevate the UAE’s global standing across diverse fields.

The expedition tested the limits of endurance, taking place in one of the world’s most extreme environments. Al Awadhi faced temperatures plunging below minus 40 degrees Celsius, fierce winds and prolonged isolation, requiring exceptional physical stamina, mental resilience and self-reliance.

Reflecting on the journey, Al Awadhi described Mount Vinson as a defining challenge. She noted that while the mountain initially intimidated her due to its harsh conditions and isolation, standing at the summit transformed fear into strength. Gazing across Antarctica’s vast, icy landscape, she said the experience left her deeply inspired and eager to return one day.

She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the UAE’s leadership for creating an environment that nurtures ambition and enables young people to pursue bold dreams. Raising the UAE flag atop Antarctica’s highest peak, she said, symbolised more than personal success it represented a nation built on opportunity, vision and inspiration.

Al Awadhi emphasised that the achievement carries a powerful national message: with determination and leadership support, Emiratis can overcome even the most extreme challenges. She extended thanks to her family, sponsors and supporters, noting that having both encouragement and resources is essential to turning dreams into reality.

Currently a university student majoring in Economics, Al Awadhi highlighted the importance of balancing education with ambition. She encouraged Arab youth, particularly young women, to pursue their goals without delay, stressing that her generation is not just the future, but the present.

The expedition was sponsored by Palms Sports, a UAE-based global sports management and training company dedicated to empowering Emirati youth. Additional support came from Dar Al Takaful Finance, which had also sponsored Al Awadhi’s earlier ascent of Mount Elbrus in July 2025, when she became the youngest Emirati to reach Europe’s highest peak.

Al Awadhi’s Mount Vinson summit brings her one step closer to completing the prestigious Explorer’s Grand Slam a challenge that includes climbing the Seven Summits and reaching both the North and South Poles further strengthening the UAE’s presence on the global adventure sports stage and cementing her status as an inspiring role model for youth and women worldwide.