130 scouts camp out in the desert of Al Marmoom reserve for three days

dubai — Over 130 student scouts from the UAE and Saudi Arabia took part in a three-day outing at Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve in Dubai.

The outing for students aged between 11 and 16 years — organised by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) — marked the formal launch of the first dedicated camp for scouts in the protectorate.

Commander Khalil Rahma Ali, secretary-general of the UAE Scout Association and executive director of the Dubai Scout Mission, said: “We want to create an aptitude for problem-solving and develop skills of young scouts who are committed to preserving our natural environment. Our scouting activities and accolades are designed to challenge and bring out the best values in young ones.”

Throughout the camp, the scouts aspired to earn various badges showcasing different achievements. Each badge is designed to complement the objectives of Al Marmoom Reserve and promote its purpose of protecting the environment, wildlife and the desert.

“The scouting camp also aims to create a culture of volunteering and positive values that help give back to the community around us,” Khalil Rahma added.

Hind Al Mualla, chief of creativity, happiness and innovation at the KHDA, said: “Al Marmoom Desert Reserve brings the scouts closer to nature and gives them an opportunity to try new experiences.”

The Marmoom reserve is the UAE’s first desert sanctuary that is open to the public. Its 40-hectare area is also home to the country’s largest plant life nursery. In time, it will bloom with more than one million different species of local flora.

The scouting camp aims to create a culture of volunteering and positive values.” Commander Khalil Rahma Ali, secretary-general, UAE Scout Association

— Supplied photos Dr Abdulla Al Karam alongside a scout during the outing organised by the KHDA.

Young scouts tackle various challenges and engage in activities that earned them medals, honours and badges at the camp.