In the bustling city of Dubai, Dr. Ayesha Al Memari, a 45-year-old Emirati critical-care doctor, has found solace and rejuvenation in the towering peaks of some of the world’s highest mountains. Amid the constant digital noise of modern life, Dr. Ayesha has sought tranquility away from the daily challenges of her profession by embarking on a mission to conquer the Seven Summits, the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. 
Having completed three summits already – Mt. Kilimanjaro twice (5,895 meters in 2017 and 2022), Mt. Elbrus (5,642 meters, the highest in Europe) in July 2023, and the recent ascent of Aconcagua (6,961 meters), the tallest peak in the Western hemisphere located in Argentina near the Chilean border – Dr. Ayesha shared her journey of using mountain climbing as a therapeutic remedy for professional burnout.
As a consultant in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care at a hospital in Abu Dhabi, Dr. Ayesha emphasized the transformative power of exercise in combating burnout. She revealed that ascending mountains, far from the daily grind, provides her with a personal challenge, allowing her to unwind and return to her work fully revitalized.
“Exercise is one of the most effective therapies against burnout. And I found my peace in the mountains,” said Dr. Ayesha. “When you are on top of a mountain, there is no internet access to the rest of the world. It forces me to focus on my steps climbing and completely disconnect from the world. It is a great stress buster.”
Working in critical care, Dr. Ayesha faces the daily challenge of dealing with patients nearing the end of their lives. Recognizing the mental toll it takes on healthcare professionals, she stressed the importance of having a passion and engaging in refreshing activities to alleviate stress.
Recently, on January 17, Dr. Ayesha achieved the summit of Aconcagua, facing rocky terrain and challenging weather conditions. Her dedication to the cause goes beyond personal fulfillment, as she carries the banner of the “Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education” campaign, positioning the United Arab Emirates as a role model in providing access to quality education.
Dr. Ayesha is on a mission to complete the Seven Summits and plans to form a team of seven Emirati women to achieve this feat by the 55th UAE national day. Her hikes serve as a platform to raise awareness for important causes, emphasizing the role of education in societal progress.
Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Ayesha acknowledged the support of her family, especially her mother, who is concerned when she embarks on these challenging hikes. Despite the worries, her mother ensures that Dr. Ayesha carries the UAE flag to raise it atop each summit. 
Dr. Ayesha’s journey into mountain climbing began in 2015 with an attempt to summit Jabal Shams in Oman, and since then, she has embraced the challenges, trained rigorously, and conquered peaks around the world. She follows a disciplined approach to training, engaging with mountain coaches, cycling coaches, and maintaining a specific diet to stay fit and prepared for each expedition.
As she continues her quest to conquer mountains, Dr. Ayesha Al Memari remains an inspiration, not only in the medical field but also as a symbol of determination, resilience, and a passionate advocate for quality education.