The 48-year-old Nadhira al Harthy was the second person from the Sultanate of Oman and the first Omani woman to climb Mount Everest.
She passed away while on a mission following an avalanche below Camp III on Broad Peak (8,047m) in Pakistan’s Karakoram, authorities said, as a search mission continues for the remaining climbers unaccounted for since the disaster struck the mountain on Thursday.
This is what Nadhira said about her preparations and achievements.
Preparations in Oman
“To prepare myself for the Himalayas, I engaged in various activities in Oman’s diverse terrain. Canyoning, which involves descending into ravines and gorges, helped me develop agility and mental strength. Exploring caves tested my endurance and connected me with the mysteries of the earth. Hiking and trail runs on different paths, some easy and some challenging, trained my body to overcome obstacles.”
“Standing at the summits of Amadablam and Everest, surrounded by breathtaking views, I couldn’t help but feel immense gratitude for the land that nurtured me. Oman, my home country, with its diverse landscapes and untamed beauty, had prepared me for this moment. It had revealed its secrets, tested my courage, and inspired me to conquer the seemingly impossible.”
Before her Everest ascent, Nadhira led an expedition of Omani students through the GLOBE Program to attempt to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro.
Role model for students
She worked as a geography teacher and a curriculum developer and held managerial positions in the field of education, including as the Deputy Director General at Oman Scouts and Guides Organization, a full-time role that allowed her to contribute to the growth and development of young minds. She was also the country coordinator of the GLOBE Program in Oman.
She held a master’s degree in Geographic Studies from Sultan Qaboos University and a bachelor’s degree in Social Studies from the College of Education in Rustaq.
Everest
“On May 23, 2019, I etched my name in history as the first Omani woman to summit Mount Everest. Standing atop the world’s tallest peak, I planted a piece of paper inscribed with Khalid’s name, symbolizing our intertwined journeys. Accompanied by fellow Arab women, my triumph resonated with a sense of unity and empowerment. Shattering gender barriers, my accomplishment inspired a nation and opened doors for future generations.”
My journey to Everest is a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within each of us. From the depths of hidden dreams to the heights of accomplishment, my story exemplifies the power of determination, courage, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams. My triumphs serve as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging us all to believe in ourselves, embrace our passions, and reach for the summits that await us. May my story ignite the flames of possibility within each reader, forever reminding us that with unwavering dedication, dreams do come true.”
AMA DABLAM
“I stood tall on January 14, 2021, etching my name in the annals of mountaineering history. As the first Arab woman to conquer Ama Dablam’s treacherous heights, I triumphantly claimed the summit, immortalizing my achievement and inspiring a new generation of adventurers.”
Ama Dablam, known as the “Jewel of the Himalayas,” is a majestic peak nestled in the heart of Nepal’s Khumbu region. Its distinctive pyramid-shaped summit rises dramatically to an elevation of 6,812 meters (22,349 feet). Cloaked in a veil of mythical allure, Ama Dablam has captivated the hearts and minds of mountaineers around the world. Its technical terrain, steep icy slopes, and exposed ridges demand exceptional skill and unwavering determination. To conquer Ama Dablam is to truly test one’s mettle amidst a world of granite and ice.”
In my first attempt to conquer this awe-inspiring mountain, I encountered a formidable adversary—altitude sickness. Despite my ardent efforts and unwavering determination, I fell agonizingly short of reaching the summit, missing it by a mere 300 meters. The experience was a humbling reminder of the immense power and unpredictability of nature. It taught me a valuable lesson, etching within me an unyielding resolve to persevere and learn from my failures.”
KILIMANJARO
“Life on Mount Kilimanjaro, the fourth-highest mountaintop in the world, unfolded as a transformative experience, allowing me to rediscover myself and test my resilience. Challenging the elements that pushed me both mentally and physically, including cold, scorching sun, high altitude, and rugged terrain, revealed the extent to which we have grown accustomed to the comforts of our surroundings.”
During a particularly demanding day en route to Lava Tower Camp, I curiously asked our Sherpa (guide) if Kilimanjaro had a God. Without hesitation, he affirmed the existence of a deity, and I humorously assumed that the mountain must not welcome visitors then. However, he clarified, saying, “No, he waits for you all and welcomes those who reach him because it isn’t easy.” This perspective provided solace and strength, alleviating the difficulties I faced while breathing in the thin air.”
Manaslu
“My expectations of Manaslu were quickly interrupted as soon as I began having altitude sickness and anxiety. It was early days, and I found myself lying in my sleeping bag, with a heart rate of 120, a pounding headache, and exhaustion taking over my whole body. I began to wonder if these symptoms were an indication of something bigger, something regarding my ability to reach my goals and make it to the top. Instead, the only thing going up was my anxiety. But I wasn’t going to let it control me and my feelings, so I reached out for help.”
I reached the summit and got my bright photo with Oman’s flag raised for the first time at Manaslu. This experience made me happy, a new way of getting to know myself even more!”
