Prince William recently embarked on an exciting new adventure as co-patron of the Jewel of Arabia Expedition. Attending the launch at the Royal Geographical Society, the Prince expressed his enthusiasm for the project, which aims to retrace the steps of British explorer Bertram Thomas. A significant aspect of the expedition is its collaboration with Oman’s Crown Prince, Theyazin bin Haitham, highlighting the strong bond between the two nations.
During the event, held on November 24, 2024, William reminisced about his previous visit to Oman back in 2019. "I’ve just had the opportunity to look through some of the images from the RGS collection, and they bring back warm memories of my visit to Oman," he noted. The Jewel of Arabia Expedition is set to begin on January 6, 2025, and will take six explorers on a challenging 30-day trek across some of Oman’s most stunning yet inhospitable terrains.
The expedition crew plans to traverse the southeast coastline of Oman, following the route originally mapped by Bertram Thomas during his landmark 1928 exploration. Thomas documented his findings extensively, and this modern-day adventure hopes to raise awareness about Oman’s rich biodiversity and the environmental challenges it faces.
The Prince explained, "This expedition will not only highlight Oman’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage, but it also symbolizes the enduring friendship between our two countries." William emphasized the significance of showcasing Oman’s natural beauty as well as the damage inflicted by climate change. The crew will navigate diverse terrains, including the infamous Rub Al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, one of the largest sand deserts globally.
Mark Evans, the 63-year-old expedition leader, shared insights about the team’s preparation. “We will start every day at 5 am,” he stated. They plan to cover approximately 25 to 30 kilometers daily, combining hiking and camel riding. Evans expressed the intention of using slow travel to tell stories and engage with the environment meaningfully. “It’s all about slow travel, telling stories, and using technology to spotlight the country,” he explained.
The group will sleep under the open desert sky each night, bringing participants closer to nature and allowing them to experience the beauty of the environment firsthand. The expedition is not just about adventure; it seeks to inspire future generations to respect and protect their natural heritage. During their trek, the explorers will interact with local schoolchildren, aiming to educate them about Oman’s biodiversity and sustainability efforts.
The use of modern technology will play a key role throughout the expedition. Videos, podcasts, and social media will allow real-time sharing of their experiences and discoveries, broadening the outreach of the expedition's message. Evans remarked, "I just hope they will use it to challenge their own stereotypes of the Middle East," emphasizing the expedition's goal to alter perceptions about the region.
Prince William’s support for conservation efforts has been evident throughout his royal duties. His involvement with the Jewel of Arabia Expedition aligns with his long-standing passion for protecting the environment. The expedition also coincides with significant milestones, such as the 225th anniversary of the friendship treaty between Britain and Oman, underscoring the historical and cultural connections between the two countries.
Though the Prince expressed his desire to participate, he revealed he would not be joining the team on this trek but remains committed to future visits. He expressed optimism, stating, "We’re in the planning process," hinting at potential trips to Oman to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties.
With the Crown Prince of Oman by his side, Prince William highlighted the importance of the expedition as not only preserving traditional environmental practices but also incorporating modern innovations. They aim to establish Oman as a leading advocate for sustainability and conservation.
This venture stands as more than just another royal engagement. It symbolizes Prince William’s dedication to global environmental issues and his commitment to working collaboratively with Oman to highlight its natural treasures. Through this groundbreaking expedition, they are set to inspire future generations about the importance of biodiversity and showcase Oman as a unique and vibrant country concerned about its future.
Overall, the Jewel of Arabia Expedition promises to be not only adventurous but also educational and transformative, serving as a reminder of the beauty of our planet and the necessity of its protection. With its high-profile patrons and dynamic programming, it is sure to captivate the hearts and minds of audiences around the world, reaffirming the bonds of friendship and shared responsibility between nations.
