Muscat, Nov 1 9
Commemorating Oman's National Day, Ahmed al Mahrouqi, desert adventurer and camel enthusiast, is commencing his journey on a camel. The journey will begin on November 22, 2025, from Adam, the birthplace of the founder of the Al Busaid State, Imam Ahmed bin Said.
From Adam, Ahmed will head to Nizwa, Al Hamra, Jabal Sharqi, known for its dramatic landscapes, and on to Balad Sayt, a mountain village in the Wilayat of Bahla. Then it is the climb down to cross through wadis to reach Al Rustaq.
"The plan is to travel for 10 hours each day and camp before sunset," said Al Mahrouqi. The journey is titled 'Steps of Imam Ahmed bin Said', tracing his journey during his life.
Imam Ahmed bin Said was the first ruler of Oman of the Al Busaid State. He came to power during a period when Oman was divided by civil war, and the Persians had occupied large parts of the country. During his long rule as Imam, the country prospered and regained its leading position in the region.
On Wednesday, over 50 journalists arrived in Adam to experience history. Al Mahrouqi was there to receive them with his camels.
"We arranged for the media representatives to walk through the old town, as this place holds great significance in the history of Al Busaid State. This is where Imam Ahmed bin Said was born. And it is interesting to trace his journey from being born in the interior and expanding to the coast," explained Shaikha al Mahrouqi, Acting Director-General for International Media, Ministry of Information.
"It was amazing to see and speak to journalists from around the world," said Al Mahrouqi, a resident of Adam.
"It is an art and part of Omani heritage. So we must not forget it," he said. One of the challenging parts of the solo journey could be climbing Jabal Al Sharaf.
"The camels can do it," said Al Mahrouqi, who is known for crossing the deserts, especially the Empty Quarter. He has also been featured in many international documentaries and is a celebrity guide when it comes to crossing deserts.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
