The Sharjah Foundation for Capability Development, known as “Taqdeer,” has unveiled a new edition of its innovative programme “To the Summits,” specifically designed to enhance skills in climbing and mountain adventures. This initiative, part of the 25-Year Foundation for the Development of Leaders and Innovators, features a comprehensive training pathway that combines theoretical learning with practical experiences, offering participants the opportunity to tackle challenges in natural environments across the UAE.
Building on Previous Success
This latest version follows the previous programme, where participants faced the challenge of climbing Mount Elbrus in Russia. The current focus is on developing essential climbing skills, including rope handling, equipment usage, and advanced descent techniques, as well as fostering climbing leadership abilities.
Programme Details
Spanning from September 5 to November 14, 2026, the programme will consist of nine progressive training sessions. Participants will start by familiarising themselves with equipment, safety principles, and the basics of climbing, gradually advancing to more complex skills in ascent and descent, which will be tested in outdoor and rugged terrains.
According to Khaled Ibrahim Al Nakhai, Director of the Sharjah Foundation for Capability Development, this year’s “To the Summits” programme is revitalised with fresh challenges that enable participants to discover their capabilities and hone their skills. He emphasised that reaching the summit of Mount Elbrus marked a significant milestone in the programme’s journey, whereas the current edition is centred on tackling climbing challenges and developing technical and field skills within the UAE.
Programme Objectives
Al Nakhai further explained that the programme aims not just to reach a physical summit but also to build participants’ capacities, enhance self-confidence, decision-making skills, and the ability to confront challenges. The structure of the programme is designed to support skill and readiness development in a gradual and incremental manner.
Four Stages of Training
The new version encompasses four consecutive training stages. It begins with an orientation phase that focuses on the fundamentals of equipment handling, rope management, and safety protocols. Following this is a technical training phase aimed at refining climbing and descent skills through practical applications.
In the third stage, participants will practice descending in canyons, applying their acquired skills in natural settings. The fourth phase centres on climbing leadership, representing the most advanced level for qualified participants. Progress through the programme requires the completion of each phase before advancing to the next.
Personal and Practical Skill Development
In addition to enhancing climbing proficiency and equipment handling, the programme seeks to cultivate various personal and practical skills, including focus, self-confidence, decision-making, responsibility, teamwork, and adaptability to diverse environments and situations.
Commitment to Development
This programme is part of the Sharjah Foundation for Capability Development’s ongoing efforts to offer enriching experiences based on practical training and real-world challenges. It provides youth with a platform to test their limits, acquire new skills, and prepare themselves for more advanced challenges in the future.