UK and Omani Royals Embark on Historic Arabian Expedition

LONDON: A remarkable journey is about to unfold as a group of explorers, supported by royal figures, prepares to retrace a historic route along the coast of Oman. This expedition, known as the "Jewel of Arabia," is inspired by the travels of British diplomat Bertram Thomas, who first embarked on this path nearly a century ago in 1928. Thomas's journey lasted 42 days, during which he documented the region's unique wildlife and landscapes, earning praise from King George V for his adventurous spirit.

The current expedition is backed by William, Prince of Wales, and Omani Crown Prince Theyazin bin Haitham. It will consist of six travelers, led by experienced explorer Mark Evans. The team will not only rely on traditional camels but will also utilize modern off-road vehicles to navigate the challenging terrain. According to reports, the primary goal of this journey is to "raise awareness among young people both in and outside of Oman of the value of Oman’s natural heritage and biodiversity as well as the environmental challenges the country and the wider world face." This initiative aims to engage the youth in understanding the importance of preserving nature.

As part of their adventure, the explorers will share their experiences through podcasts and radio interviews with local stations. They will also interact with local children, fostering a sense of community and connection. An online tracker will allow people to follow their progress in real time, making it an engaging experience for those interested in their journey.

During a recent gathering at the Royal Geographical Society, Prince William expressed his enthusiasm for the expedition, stating, "I wish I was able to join you, but will be following very closely." He emphasized the significance of the journey, noting that it would not only showcase the beauty of Oman but also highlight the impacts of climate change on the region. The prince remarked, "The expedition will not only highlight Oman’s biodiversity and natural heritage, but also symbolize the enduring friendship between our two countries." This sentiment reflects the deep-rooted ties between Britain and Oman, which will be further celebrated in 2025, marking 225 years since the signing of a friendship treaty between the two nations.

The explorers will begin their daily treks around 5 a.m. local time, aiming to cover 25 to 30 kilometers each day. They will sleep under the stars, embracing the raw beauty of the desert without the comfort of tents. Evans, 63, humorously noted that the camels, the true stars of the show, are currently undergoing a "camel boot camp" in Oman to prepare for the demanding journey ahead. Joining Evans are fellow adventurers Nigel Harling, Ana-Maria Pavalache, Dhirka Al-Mawali, Ibrahim Al-Hasni, and Amour Al-Wahibi, all seasoned explorers ready to take on this challenge.

Bertram Thomas's original expedition took place during a time when the region was deemed one of the most inhospitable places on Earth, known as Rub Al-Khali, or the "empty quarter." His work for the Sultan of Oman allowed him to become the first Westerner to traverse this coastal route, navigating through harsh landscapes and local conflicts. His experiences were later compiled into a book titled "Arabia Felix," which features a foreword by the famous T.E. Lawrence.

As this new expedition sets forth, it not only honors the legacy of Bertram Thomas but also serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and international friendship. The journey promises to be an enlightening experience, showcasing the beauty of Oman while addressing the pressing issues of climate change. It is a call to action for all of us to appreciate and protect our natural world, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the wonders of our planet.