Sheikha Asma, the first Qatari woman to climb Nanga Parbat

In a historic time for Qatar and women climbers everywhere, Sheikha Asma Al Thani is the first Qatari woman to summit Nanga Parbat, also referred to as the “Killer Mountain”, K2, in Pakistan. Nanga Parbat reaches 8,126 meters, meaning it is just under 8000-meters, and is the ninth highest peak in the world. One of the most lethal mountains in the Himalayas, Nanga Parbat is located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan and is famous for its extreme weather, steep ice walls, and remarkably high death toll.

It is also the ninth successful ascent of an “eight-thousander” by Sheikha Asma, which means it is only one of fourteen mountain peaks worldwide higher than 8,000 meters. In addition to Nanga Parbat, Asma has successfully summited Everest, K2, Makalu, and a number of others, making her one of the most accomplished Arab women in the world of high-altitude mountaineering.

Posting the emotional milestone on Instagram, Sheikha Asma stated: “Alhamdulillah, Nanga Parbat. My ninth 8000er and one of the hardest climbs I’ve ever done. This mountain tested me in ways I didn’t imagine… a constant reminder of the fragility of life.” She went on to say, “There was surrender and there was strength I didn’t know I still had. I climb not only to the summit, but to return to what is.”

Sheikha Asma’s accomplishment comes during the busy summer climbing season in Pakistan, in which climbers from around the world attempt some of the toughest peaks on the planet. Her grit and strength continue to motivate a new generation of climbers, particularly women from the Middle East. With each ascent, she is breaking not only records – but breaking barriers.

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