UAE National Returns from Landmark Antarctic Expedition, Reinforcing Commitment to Sustainability
Dr. Hussain Khansaheb, a UAE national and seasoned marine engineer with nearly 20 years of experience, has returned to the UAE after completing a rare and transformative expedition to Antarctica—an experience that has further strengthened his resolve to advance national and global sustainability goals.
Supported by Dubai Holding, Dr. Khansaheb was selected as one of just eight global changemakers to participate in the 2041 Foundation’s Ice Station Expedition 2025, held from 1 to 12 December at the Union Glacier in Antarctica.
The expedition was led by renowned polar explorer and climate advocate Robert Swan OBE, the first person in history to walk to both the North and South Poles.
Climate Learning at the Edge of the World
Blending climate education, scientific exposure and leadership development, the expedition offered participants a first-hand view of one of the planet’s most fragile and vital ecosystems.
As Dubai Holding’s first-ever National Sustainability Champion, Dr. Khansaheb gained critical insights into Antarctica’s unique status as an ungoverned continent dedicated to peaceful scientific research.
During the journey, he observed NASA-led research on dry permafrost, which explores similarities between Antarctica and Mars, and witnessed the visible impacts of climate change, including icebergs breaking away from the mainland—an experience that underscored the urgency of collective global action.
A Renewed Mission for Climate Action
Reflecting on the expedition, Dr. Khansaheb described it as life-changing.
“This was one of the most challenging and transformative experiences of my life,” he said. “Antarctica offers an unparalleled perspective on how deeply interconnected our planet is. From the icy desert to the sandy desert, I am committed to applying these learnings to support climate action aligned with the UAE’s sustainability ambitions.”
Antarctica holds around 90% of the Earth’s ice and plays a crucial role in regulating global climate systems. Accelerated ice melt could raise global sea levels by up to 60 metres, posing serious environmental and economic risks to coastal nations, including the UAE.
Aligning with the UAE’s Polar and Net Zero Vision
Dr. Khansaheb’s participation closely aligns with the UAE’s growing role in polar science and climate leadership.
The country joined the Antarctic Treaty System in 2024, launched the Emirates Polar Programme, and recently announced plans to establish a permanent research base in Antarctica—a move aimed at contributing to global climate science and inspiring future Emirati researchers.
Upon his return, Dr. Khansaheb will share insights from his journey through speaking engagements with schools and communities, helping raise awareness and inspire action in support of the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy.
Building Climate Leaders for the Future
Huda Buhumaid, Group Chief Impact Officer of Dubai Holding, highlighted the broader impact of such initiatives:
“Inspiring the next generation of climate advocates is essential for our nation and the planet. By empowering leaders like Dr. Khansaheb, we are fostering meaningful climate education, environmental stewardship and real-world action.”
Robert Swan OBE echoed this sentiment, praising Dr. Khansaheb’s commitment and leadership.
“There is no better classroom than Antarctica,” he said. “Experiences like the 2041 Expeditions build the leadership skills needed to protect our planet through peaceful, collaborative global action.”
A Journey Beyond Exploration
The expedition began in Punta Arenas, Chile, before participants flew to Antarctica, where Dr. Khansaheb spent seven days observing scientific research, camping overnight, cross-country skiing, and completing Robert Swan’s Leadership on the Edge and Survival Skills programme.
Highlights included a 10-kilometre endurance challenge across the Union Glacier and hikes at key research sites such as Elephant’s Head.
As Dr. Khansaheb returns home, his Antarctic journey stands as a powerful reminder that climate leadership is forged not just in boardrooms and policies, but at the very frontlines of the planet’s most vulnerable environments.
