In a remarkable feat of determination, Saudi Arabian entrepreneur and explorer, Badr Al-Shebani, has successfully reached the South Pole. Marking the culmination of a long-held aspiration, Al-Shebani skied to the last degree of the South Pole, proudly hoisting the Saudi flag.
With a track record of conquering the highest peaks on all seven continents, including the formidable Mount Everest, Al-Shebani is no stranger to extreme challenges. Commenting on the harsh conditions, he stated,
Although the weather is very harsh in the South Pole, I have faced similar conditions on Mount Everest, Denali, and Vinson."
Undertaking this demanding journey required rigorous preparation, enduring temperatures as low as -50°C, battling winds of up to 60 miles per hour, and hauling a 60 kg sledge. Al-Shebani emphasized the months of physical preparation needed for such arduous expeditions.
The seasoned adventurer's familiarity with challenging terrains, gained through years of experience, contributed to the success of this South Pole expedition. Dr. Badr, having previously undertaken an expedition to climb Mount Vinson, was well-acquainted with the region.
The comprehensive journey spans two weeks, encompassing arrival in Punta Arenas, Chile, a flight to Antarctica, two days of preparation and acclimatization, a flight to 89°S, and eight days of skiing through challenging conditions to reach the South Pole. The South Pole, situated at 2,800 meters above sea level, poses additional challenges due to the thin air, making breathing even more demanding.
This ambitious expedition, aiming to conquer all seven summits and reach the South Pole, draws inspiration from Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman's Vision 2030. Aligned with the vision's emphasis on motivating youth to engage in sports and lead healthy lives, Al-Shebani encourages young people to pursue their dreams, emphasizing that nothing is impossible.
