Mike Metzger is on a remarkable journey, walking from the UAE to Yemen with his camel, Sheba, as part of The Hope Voyage. This first-of-its-kind expedition is more than a test of endurance—it’s a mission to bring aid to communities in Yemen through healthcare initiatives, water well projects, and sustainable livestock training. Travelling on foot across vast desert landscapes, Metzger’s journey is a story of resilience, determination, and kindness.
Now over 50 days into the Oman leg of his expedition—after 18 days trekking across the UAE—Mike has faced both challenges and acts of generosity. His path takes him through remote desert landscapes, including the formidable Empty Quarter, where resources are scarce. His camel Sheba, he explains, has proven to be a natural traveller, adapting effortlessly to the journey.
One of the most defining aspects of his time in Oman has been the overwhelming generosity of its people. Along his route, strangers have stopped to offer food, water, and supplies. He recalls Bedouin brothers Salim and Said, whose family provided fresh meals, firewood, and care for Sheba—just one of many encounters that have reinforced his belief in human generosity in the most unexpected places. However, his journey has not been without hardship. Walking for months under extreme desert conditions takes a physical toll. From exhaustion, lack of rest, and the challenge of carrying supplies to setbacks such as losing his phone that held the crucial information of GPS coordinates for food and water drop-offs; every step is a test of endurance.
Oman’s desert conditions have presented additional obstacles, he explains. While January days were manageable, the nights were brutally cold, making early starts difficult. More recently, relentless sandstorms have forced him to stop and clear sand from his eyes, while the rising heat has required more breaks, slowing his progress.
One of the most unexpected aspects of his time in Oman has been the country’s dramatic and ever-changing landscapes. He shares how astonished he is at how quickly the terrain shifts from barren desert to lush valleys within a kilometre. Another surprise was how, even in the most remote areas, Omanis seemed to appear out of nowhere, always ready to help. These moments, he says, feel like something out of a storybook, reinforcing his belief in the power of human connection.
Mike has also been surprised by the active role of Bedouin women in Omani society. He never expected to see so many women driving trucks, tending to animals, and stopping to chat with him and Sheba. On multiple occasions, women were not just accompanying men but leading interactions—offering food, taking photos, and engaging in conversations. This openness has challenged his previous perceptions, revealing a side of Bedouin culture he hadn’t anticipated.
As the duo nears their final stretch towards Yemen, the challenges ahead are immense. The next leg of the journey, from Mukshin to Al Mazuna, will take two to three weeks to cross, with water being the biggest concern. At any given time, they can only carry enough for three to four days before relying entirely on the generosity of those they meet along the way. This uncertainty adds an extra layer of difficulty to an already demanding expedition.
There have been moments when Mike felt pushed to his limits, battling the harsh realities of the journey. But messages from friends and supporters reminding him of The Hope Voyage’s greater purpose keep him moving forward. This journey is not just about personal endurance—it is about creating real change. The mission is already making a difference in Yemen through a free medical clinic, a water well project serving 1,000 Bedouins, and a livestock training programme helping families become self-sufficient.
Mike hopes his journey inspires people to reconnect with their heritage and embrace adventure. Oman, with its deep-rooted tradition of long-distance travel, has reminded him of the spiritual connection that comes with moving through the world in a simple, natural way. He encourages Omanis to step outside their comfort zones, experience nature, and take risks. He believes that travelling by camel, donkey, or ship—much like generations before—offers a perspective that modern transportation cannot replicate.
With just a few weeks left in Oman, Mike welcomes anyone who wants to join him on this journey. He and Sheba continue to seek support, whether through donations, community engagement, or simply sharing the road with them for a few kilometres. Beyond Yemen, he dreams of expanding this mission to other regions in need, with plans for future humanitarian treks to Palestine, Sudan, and Somalia.
Through every challenge and act of kindness, Mike’s journey has become more than just a trek—it’s a testament to the endurance of the human spirit and the power of purpose. Each step forward is fuelled by the generosity of strangers, the bond with Sheba, and the unwavering belief that small actions can create lasting change.
As he nears the Yemeni border, Mike reflects on the transformative power of his journey. Each encounter and experience has shaped him, deepening his understanding of the world and the ties that bind humanity together. The desert, with its harsh environments and moments of beauty, has taught him patience and humility.
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