The Emirates Foundation has opened registration for Misrah, a national initiative developed by Active Abu Dhabi in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority. The programme aims to cultivate cultural awareness and a strong sense of identity among UAE youth through an immersive heritage and physical endurance experience rooted in authentic Emirati traditions.
Empowering Youth Through Culture and Challenge
Launching officially on 21 August 2025, Misrah invites UAE citizens and residents aged 18 to 25, regardless of nationality, to apply for a chance to be selected among 100 participants. Those chosen will embark on a 1,000km desert journey using traditional methods of transport, including camels. Designed to push physical and mental limits, the initiative seeks to foster resilience while deepening cultural roots.
The journey is the culmination of two structured training phases. Initially, 500 young men and women will be selected to participate in training sessions in Abu Dhabi, where they will learn camel riding, traditional crafts, and folk arts. This training, held four days a week until 19 October, is supervised by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority. Each session will host 60 participants, running from 4pm to 8pm. At the end of this phase, 100 individuals will be shortlisted for the final desert expedition.
Mansour Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Active Abu Dhabi, said: “Misrah marks an inspiring milestone in our continued efforts to empower youth and reinforce their connection to national identity. We are proud to open registration for this unique cultural journey that blends physical challenge with deep-rooted Emirati pride. We encourage young citizens and residents to take part in this exceptional experience, which will help shape their character, enhance their skills, and deepen their appreciation for the richness of Emirati heritage.”
In-Depth Cultural Training and Collaboration
The Misrah initiative includes both theoretical and hands-on modules that bring Emirati culture to life. Training will cover camel care, saddle assembly, and traditional tool usage. Participants will study camel anatomy and work with materials such as batan (padding), zuwar (stirrups), hasra (woven mats), and saqa’a (water pouches). Additionally, workshops will teach folk performances like Al Ayala, Al Harbiya, Al Taghrooda, and the hospitality ritual San’a al-dhiyafa.
As part of the curriculum, storytelling sessions and demonstrations such as Shabah Al Daw and Emirati coffee preparation will enrich cultural understanding. Participants will rotate through three core stations—The Coffee House, Folk Arts Workshops, and Camel Pastures—ensuring a well-balanced and comprehensive experience.
Multiple government and private sector entities are supporting the initiative, including the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Mubadala Investment Company, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Ministry of Defense, and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. Other partners include the Department of Health, Nafis Program, PureHealth, Abu Dhabi Police, and various media offices, academic institutions, and archives.
Registration Now Open
The Misrah programme serves not only as a physical endurance challenge but also as a cultural revival movement. It aims to empower youth to carry forward the intangible heritage of the UAE through direct engagement and community-driven storytelling.
Applicants can register or find further information by visiting: www.activeabudhabi.com/misrah.