Emirates Ski Academy Launches ‘Our Flag Above The Summit’

The Emirates Ski Academy has officially launched the 14th edition of its patriotic initiative titled “Our Flag Above the Summit.” This annual campaign aims to raise the UAE flag above the world’s highest snowy peaks, carrying a symbolic message of pride, unity, and ambition. The initiative celebrates the nation’s determination to always reach the top — not only in mountaineering but in all fields of development and achievement.

The announcement was made during a press conference held in Dubai, attended by His Excellency Ghanem Mubarak Al Hajeri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Sports; Ibrahim Ali Khadem, partner and founder of the Emirates Ski Academy; and Waleed Fakih, CEO of McDonald’s UAE, a key partner in the UAE Ski Talents Program. The event reflected the spirit of national unity and cooperation that the campaign promotes each year.

During the launch, His Excellency Ghanem Mubarak Al Hajeri praised the academy for continuing this inspiring national effort. He said that the campaign is not just about placing a flag on a mountaintop, but about sending a strong message of perseverance and hope. “It is not just about raising a flag on a mountain,” he explained, “but a national message to the world confirming that the people of the Emirates are capable of reaching the highest peaks through work, diligence, and cooperation.”

Al Hajeri added that the initiative mirrors the values of ambition, teamwork, and determination that define the Emirati spirit. He said the event encourages young citizens to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals. “We are proud of this initiative, which reflects our national values and ambitious spirit. We look forward to our heroes participating in the Valorance Summit journey to promote this global message in cooperation with our strategic partners,” he said.

The Emirates Ski Academy has long been dedicated to promoting adventure sports among young Emiratis and building their skills in skiing, climbing, and snow sports. Through this initiative, the academy not only promotes physical endurance but also highlights the UAE’s image as a nation that values excellence and international cooperation.

The “Our Flag Above the Summit” initiative began over a decade ago and has since become a proud annual tradition. Every year, trained Emirati adventurers and athletes carry the UAE flag to snowy peaks around the world, including mountains in Europe and Asia. Each climb represents a new achievement, symbolizing the country’s constant pursuit of progress and leadership on the global stage.

The initiative also aims to inspire youth participation and international awareness. The Emirates Ski Academy often collaborates with schools, sponsors, and organizations to involve young athletes in training and cultural exchange programs. By combining sportsmanship with national pride, the campaign promotes values of courage, teamwork, and resilience.

This year’s campaign coincides with preparations for the Valorance Summit Expedition, a new international mountaineering challenge supported by UAE sports and adventure organizations. Participants will attempt to raise the UAE flag on one of the world’s notable snowy summits, marking another milestone for the Emirates Ski Academy and the nation’s sports movement.

Waleed Fakih, CEO of McDonald’s UAE, expressed pride in being a supporting partner of the initiative. He said, “We are honored to collaborate with the Emirates Ski Academy to support young Emirati athletes in achieving excellence and representing our nation proudly across the world.” Fakih emphasized that such initiatives help inspire future generations to adopt active lifestyles while celebrating national identity.

Over the years, the “Our Flag Above the Summit” initiative has become a symbol of Emirati unity, pride, and endurance. It reflects the country’s belief that success requires teamwork, persistence, and a vision that reaches beyond limits. Each time the flag is raised on a snowy peak, it reminds the world of the UAE’s journey — from the desert to the summits — driven by the same spirit that built a modern and ambitious nation.

The Emirates Ski Academy will continue its mission to encourage sports participation, adventure training, and national pride among Emiratis. With strong support from government institutions and private sector partners, the academy aims to expand its global outreach and inspire more youth to represent the UAE in future international sports challenges.