As temperatures sharply rise in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the summer months, most residents seek refuge in air-conditioned spaces. However, for Matthew May, an engineer, outdoor event content creator, and founder of the UAE trail running community, summer is simply another reason to head to the mountains.
Matthew regularly conquers the country's highest peaks when temperatures climb, driven by a passion for showcasing the nation's natural landscapes. He noted that he has always explored nature, having grown up in a coastal town in Wales National Park. For him, being in nature, especially mountain climbing, brings a sense of calm, freedom, and the opportunity to maintain physical fitness in picturesque settings.
Despite the apparent illogic of climbing mountains during the summer heat, Matthew explains that altitude is the key to escaping the harsh climate. He has found that by ascending the highest mountains in the UAE, one can find better weather, meaning lower humidity and temperature. This is one way that helps him feel comfortable in the country during the summer.
Calculated Risks and Extreme Early Ascents
Despite his enthusiasm, Matthew emphasizes that summer trekking demands immense endurance and meticulous planning. He strictly avoids extreme conditions, so his schedule is far from ordinary. He explained that it is necessary to start very early in the morning, such as at 2 AM, or depart closer to sunset, around 5 or 6 PM. In the summer, he prefers to climb only above 1000 meters in elevation, as anything less makes him uncomfortable, which he wishes to avoid. Although there are many locations, in the summer he specifically seeks out the highest mountains.
For Matthew, this experience is about short breaks from the heat. He clarifies that he does not go for a summer walk just to be in the heat; he climbs to a specific altitude to get out of it. The experience itself in the summer months is the feeling of relief from the heat, even if only for 15–20 minutes.
When on the trails, his priorities are survival and safety. He constantly reminds himself of his water supply and how long the route will take, questioning how far he can go while remaining safe. Beyond safety concerns, he enjoys the views and the personal challenge he overcomes.
Mental Preparation is More Important Than Physical Strength
As an ultra-marathon runner accustomed to spending days on routes, Matthew has learned how strong both his body and mind are. Nevertheless, he stresses that summer trekking in the UAE is more of a mental than a physical challenge. He believes that managing the trails in the summer months depends more on mental understanding and preparation than on physical stats. His body adapts faster, and he can sweat more to cool down, but ultimately, the most important component is his mental strength and ability to know his limits in hot conditions.
He has personally faced serious consequences from overexertion in difficult conditions, admitting that he has felt weak and nearly lost consciousness several times. In such cases, he usually lies down, tries to slow his heart rate, cools down with water, restores hydration, and raises his sugar and salt levels. After some time, he can usually start moving again.
To mitigate these risks, Matthew relies on strict control of variables. In the summer, he only hikes routes he has previously covered in winter. He warns that trying new routes is too risky, so he needs to know the route, distance, and estimated time.
Strict Warning for Beginners
Although Matthew loves the mountains, his message to others is one of extreme caution. He strongly advises against summer trekking for people without significant experience. He does not encourage people to explore nature in the summer months because it is extremely dangerous, especially for beginners. He points out that too many incidents and deaths occur annually involving unprepared and inexperienced people venturing onto trails.
For those who do decide to go, his mandatory requirements include carrying more water and snacks than seems necessary, ensuring a fully charged mobile phone, having a first aid kit, sunscreen, and GPS watch. He adds that without these, the risk is too high, and it is essential to inform people of your route and plans. He also warns that solo hiking is extremely risky and not recommended.
He advises anyone without at least two or three years of mountain experience to completely forgo summer hikes. For those seeking a safer alternative, Matthew recommends Jebel Jais, the highest peak in the UAE, which offers the best weather at the summit in summer. Although the road was recently closed due to flooding earlier this year, he hopes it will reopen next season. If the road to Jebel Jais were open, his favorite route would involve traversing along the summit to the peak and enjoying the good weather. He notes that even in summer, one must start very early, before 8:30 AM, or start around sunset and hike at night to avoid encountering sunrise.
For Matthew, the mountains are a place of beauty, but also a dangerous environment that requires deep respect, especially when the summer sun beats down.
