MUSCAT: Oman is mourning the loss of pioneering mountaineer Nadhira Al Harthy, who died after an avalanche struck her expedition on Broad Peak in Pakistan, bringing to a close the remarkable journey of one of the Sultanate’s most celebrated adventurers.

The Alpine Club of Pakistan confirmed that Al Harthy was among the climbers caught in the avalanche during the expedition.

Al Harthy made history in 2019 when she became the first Omani woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest, a landmark achievement that inspired a new generation of Omanis to pursue ambitious goals and break barriers.

Her accomplishments extended well beyond Everest. She became the first Omani to summit K2, the world’s second-highest mountain, and successfully climbed several of the world’s most challenging peaks, including Manaslu, Nanga Parbat, and Ama Dablam, earning recognition as one of the Arab world’s most accomplished high-altitude mountaineers.

Beyond her achievements in the mountains, Al Harthy was admired for her humility, perseverance and commitment to inspiring others. Through her expeditions, public engagements and advocacy for adventure sports, she encouraged young people to embrace challenges, push beyond their limits and believe that determination can turn the impossible into reality.

In recognition of her extraordinary achievements and her role in inspiring positive change, The Arabian Stories honoured Al Harthy with the Changemaker Award in 2024, celebrating her exceptional contribution to Oman and her influence as a role model for future generations.

Her achievements elevated Oman’s profile on the global mountaineering stage and demonstrated that Omani women can excel in some of the world’s most demanding environments.

Tributes have poured in from across Oman and the international climbing community, remembering Al Harthy as a fearless pioneer whose determination, resilience and adventurous spirit inspired countless people.