Dubai-based mountaineer Naila Kiani is currently in Nepal as she prepares to scale Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain at 8,586 metres. This climb will be her 12th summit of the world’s 14 highest peaks, each towering above 8,000 metres.
Acclimatisation under way
Kiani is now in the acclimatisation stage, moving between Base Camp and Camp 2 (6,400 metres). These rotations are essential for adjusting to extreme altitude before attempting the summit.
“Kanchenjunga is known for its unforgiving terrain and rapidly shifting weather,” said Kiani. “But with the support of my family, team, and community, especially my sponsor The Bard Foundation, which has been instrumental in this journey, I’m stepping into this challenge with hope and determination.”
Closer to elite milestone
Kiani has already summited 11 of the 14 eight-thousanders, including Everest, K2, Annapurna, and Makalu. Once she completes all 14, she will join a small group of only around 65 climbers in the world — and just about 14 women — to have achieved the feat.
Dubai’s support and drive
Kiani, who lives and works in Dubai, says the city has played a major role in her journey.
“Dubai has given me the platform to dream bigger, push further, and redefine what’s possible,” she said. “It’s a place where ambition is celebrated and supported. Where someone like me, a working mum, engineer, and adventurer, can chase the highest peaks in the world, both metaphorically and physically.”
Beyond climbing
In addition to being a high-altitude mountaineer, Kiani is an aerospace engineer, tech entrepreneur, mother of two, and founder of Naila Kiani Adventures. She is also a recipient of the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan’s top civilian honours.
Her mission, she says, is about more than just mountaineering — it’s about breaking barriers and inspiring others, particularly women and underrepresented adventurers.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
