Fatima Sajwani Becomes First Emirati Woman to Summit Mont Blanc

Fatima Sajwani an Emirati mountaineer became a part of history on 16 July 2023 by becoming the very first Emirati woman to summit Alps’ highest peak, Mont Blanc. She began the climb on 13 July 2023, taking four days to summit Western Europe’s most famed mountaintop.

This feat is considered a new milestone in Fatima's climbing career throughout which she has already achieved various mountaineering records for her country. She became the first Emirati to ascend Africa’s third highest Margherita Peak in 2022.

Speaking about her achievement, Fatima Sajwani said: “I am proud to continue the legacy of other great female Emirati sportswomen across diverse fields who have paved the way for me. I am grateful to be able to represent the UAE in mountaineering, a sport in which Middle Eastern athletes are usually underrepresented. My motivation to set new records for my country is fueled by my raise my nation’s flag over new peaks and to inspire young Emiratis, especially women, to embrace extreme sports.”

The ace mountaineer is already setting her sights on the next challenge. Upon her return to the UAE, Fatima Sajwani intends to begin prep for climbing Ama Dablam in Nepal, a Himalayan peak known for its steep pitches and sharp ridges.