Dedication to the UAE is an enduring mission’: Introducing Noora Al Neyadi, the Emirati photographer who left a strong impression on Sheikh Mohamed A commitment to serving our leaders and the UAE is a lifelong pursuit,” was Emirati photographer Noora Al Neyadi’s response upon meeting His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE President. Affectionately known as the ‘Free Arab,’ she captured widespread attention by embarking on a distinctive journey where she formed a team to accompany her. Together, they spent an entire month living in tents among tribes in Chad.
During their meeting at Qasr Al Bahar, Sheikh Mohamed encouraged Noora to persist in capturing and chronicling diverse traditions and cultures, with the aim of fostering understanding and collaboration through photography.
But who exactly is Noora Al Neyadi, and why has she garnered such praise from the President? Noora is an Emirati anthropologist, documentary photographer, and fearless traveler who has garnered a substantial following of over 30,000 on Instagram. Through her platform, she generously shares captivating visuals and narratives from her remarkable journeys across the UAE’s landscapes and far beyond.
Noora gained significant attention by immersing herself in the heart of tribal communities in Chad, embarking on a unique mission. For an entire month, she lived in a tent, disconnecting from the internet, with a noble goal of transforming the lives of millions in dire need of clean water. Her documentation vividly captured poignant moments and intricacies of tribal life.
In a conversation with CNN, Noora delved into her mission within the African nation, explaining, “During the COP27 climate conference, a Chadian woman discussed the drought’s impact on about 90 percent of Lake Chad. It was crucial for me to undertake an exploratory journey to connect with local people and study how they are affected by this crisis.” She added, “This place will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I hope to return someday.”
Following her journey, the entire Chad was abuzz with talk of the “Free Arab” who embarked on an adventure filled with excitement, danger, and events, recounted through her Instagram account. Notably, Noora achieved a significant goal by raising over Dh1.2 million to construct seven water wells in various regions of Chad. She shared on her account, “We are the creators of exploration paths, offering cities and individuals a realm of hope and deeper significance to their life stories. We are planting Zayed’s benevolence.”
With deep appreciation, she acknowledged the steadfast support from the Emirates Red Crescent and their role in facilitating this project.
However, this was not Noora’s sole journey, as her passion for camping led her to undertake numerous trips within the country. One of her journeys involved a week-long expedition from Abu Dhabi’s capital to Liwa. Despite facing challenges like frigid temperatures, Noora enjoyed moments like stargazing beneath the clear, sparkling night sky.
Throughout this extraordinary expedition, she traversed various stations, passing through oases and castles, covering a total distance of 848 km. She narrated stories about these places, their castles, and their history.
During her meeting with the President, Noora shared her experiences and challenges while exploring diverse cultures. Undeterred by obstacles, she pledged her commitment to documenting the history and architecture that distinguishes each society.
