In a new UAE-based TV reality show called The Quest, participants showcase their speed, strength and agility in competing with each other to complete tasks while conquering some of the United Arab Emirates' adventure territory.
According to the show's host, Emirati culture enthusiast Ali Alsaloom, the aim is to show the world there is more to the UAE than shopping malls and luxury hotels and that it is actually a thriving destination for adventure tourism.
Some of the challenges on the show have included a bicycle trek across the Empty Quarter and freediving to obtain bags of treasure.
During each episode, 12 two-person teams, some of whom are all-women teams, are presented with a challenge set in different locations across the country to complete by the end of the episode.
The contestants, who represent eight countries from the Middle East and North Africa, must follow clues, answer riddles and overcome physical tasks to advance to the next stage. The winning team will be awarded AED 500,000 (US$ 136,125).
The production began filming the series in September 2017. The show began airing in October 2017 and has already attracted attention across the region.
The show is expected to contribute to increasing interest in adventure and sports tourism in the UAE.
In 2016, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, vice president and Ruler of Dubai, announced a AED 3.1 billion ($844 million) plan to turn the mountain city of Hatta into a world-class tourist destination.
The governments of Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah have embarked in developing new attractions that cater to the adventure and sports tourism market. Ras Al Khaimah’s development plans include a roadmap for tourist attractions which that capitalise on the emirate’s natural assets.
On The Quest, contestants will be facing challenges set in Jebel Jais, Hatta, Qasr Al Sarab, Zaya Nurai Island and Al Ain Oasis.
The Quest airs on Dubai TV on Sundays at 10 pm. The episodes are also available online on dmi.ae/thequest/.
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