News DeskDubai: Dr. Hussain Khansaheb, a UAE national and marine engineer with nearly two decades of experience, has returned to the UAE after taking part in a landmark Antarctic expedition aimed at advancing global climate awareness and leadership.
Supported by Dubai Holding, Dr. Khansaheb was among just eight global changemakers selected to participate in the 2041 Foundation’s Ice Station Expedition 2025, held from December 1 to 12 at Union Glacier in Antarctica. The expedition was led by renowned polar explorer and climate advocate Robert Swan OBE, the first person to walk to both the North and South Poles.
Dr. Khansaheb, Executive Director of Marine Engineering at Dubai Holding Real Estate, joined the expedition as Dubai Holding’s first National Sustainability Champion. The programme combined climate education, scientific learning and leadership training in one of the world’s most environmentally sensitive regions.
During the expedition, he learned about Antarctica’s status as an ungoverned continent reserved for peaceful scientific research and observed ongoing NASA studies into dry permafrost and the parallels between Earth and Mars. He also witnessed first-hand the visible impacts of climate change, including icebergs breaking away from the mainland.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Khansaheb said the journey was both challenging and transformative. “From the icy desert to the sandy desert, I am eager to integrate my learnings to support climate action in line with the UAE’s sustainability goals,” he said, expressing gratitude to Dubai Holding for the opportunity.
Antarctica contains around 90 per cent of the Earth’s ice and plays a crucial role in regulating global temperatures and ocean systems. Scientists warn that widespread ice melt could raise global sea levels by up to 60 metres, posing serious environmental and economic risks to coastal nations, including the UAE.
The expedition aligns with the UAE’s growing engagement in polar research. In 2024, the country acceded to the Antarctic Treaty System and launched the Emirates Polar Programme. Last November, the UAE also announced plans to establish a permanent research base in Antarctica to contribute to international climate science and inspire Emirati researchers.
Following his return, Dr. Khansaheb is set to share his experiences through speaking engagements at schools and community forums, aiming to raise awareness and support the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative.
Huda Buhumaid, Group Chief Impact Officer of Dubai Holding, said the organisation is committed to developing climate leaders who can drive meaningful environmental action. “Inspiring the next generation of climate advocates is crucial to shaping our nation and planet’s future,” she said.
Robert Swan OBE praised Dr. Khansaheb’s passion and commitment, noting that Antarctica offers a unique environment for building leadership skills needed to address global climate challenges.
The expedition began in Punta Arenas, Chile, before participants flew to Antarctica. Dr. Khansaheb spent seven days at Union Glacier, taking part in scientific observations, overnight camping, cross-country skiing, a 10-kilometre endurance trek, and hikes to sites including Elephant’s Head, where NASA is conducting research.
