Around 400 people took part in the first ever Caracal Challenge, named after the UAE’s desert wildcat, this weekend, a one-of-a-kind 15km excursion through Al Khatim desert, organised by the Emirates Wildlife Society in association with the World Wild Fund, EWS-WWF, together with event organiser Husaak Adventures.

Participants tested their endurance, navigated the desert landscape at night and learned about the UAE’s natural environment, all while contributing funds for an important cause. The initiative donated all net profits towards EWS-WWF’s Terrestrial Conservation Programme that is designed to protect land-based species and habitats across the UAE and Gulf region.

Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Deputy Director General of EWS-WWF, commented, "Residents of the UAE should be so proud to live in a country that is home to such a diverse mix of natural habitats and rich wildlife. Over the years, the UAE has been rapidly developing to meet population needs and socio-economic demand; this significant pressure has, as a result, impacted the natural environment and biodiversity."