Sunday, August 1, 2010

A Dubai local is hoping to become the first to walk all the way to the top of the world’s tallest building when the Burj Dubai finally opens, reports Nichola Jones

He has walked the length of the United Arab Emirates, climbed Dubai’s 100 highest towers and is now taking on his tallest challenge yet - conquering the Burj Dubai.

UAE national and university student Jalal bin Thaneya will need a head for heights, muscles of steel and unbreakable stamina as he shuns the super-speed lifts inside the world’s tallest building for the stairs.

The 23-year-old, studying human resources and business at Middlesex University, is taking on the imposing 800m tower to highlight the plight of thousands of people in the UAE living with a disability or special needs.

He explains: “I don’t have a disability, I don’t have any relatives with a disability but that does not mean I don’t understand that there is a need to raise awareness of this issue. I am young and fit and I am in a position to do something positive and help change people’s perceptions, which is why I am doing this challenge.”

Jalal has undergone a tough training regime for 12 months to make sure he is prepared for the mission and is not taking any chances where safety is concerned.

There are hidden hazards involved climbing up such a giant structure. A medical team will be on hand and he will be armed with oxygen to fight altitude sickness.

“Safety is a priority and I take it very seriously because I want to complete this task. I have done a lot of research and will be doing more before I go,” he said.

“There are safety issues relating to the air quality inside the stairwells because the air becomes thinner as you get higher and even claustrophobia is an issue because the stairwells are often small and can make you feel quite restricted when you are inside for a long time.  Also, you have to be careful not to twist your ankle or injure yourself because if you do, it’s all over.”

Although the gym sessions stand Jalal in good stead for completing the climb, he is also well versed in how to conquer Dubai’s highest buildings having scaled the entire emirate’s skyline in just 12 days last year.

“In 2008, I climbed 100 towers in Dubai which was a great challenge and I did it for the same cause. I raise funds as well as awareness, but getting the message across that you can do something positive for people is the key.

One of the problems is that people think they have to try and change the world.

“You cannot change the world at once but if you can change just one person’s perspective then you have made a difference and that’s what I aim to do.”

Jalal is hoping to secure sponsorship for the event, which will take place after the Burj Dubai’s official opening, which is due to take place on December 2.

“I cannot reveal the exact date yet but it will be happening after the official opening in December,” said Jalal. “I am feeling ready and very positive, it will be great to have some support.”

To contact Jalal and find out more about his charity challenges, go to www.binthaneya.com