What new perspective did walking through AlUla with archaeologist Wissam Khalil offer?
Wissam said, “Walk with an archaeologist and you will never look up again.” He was right! He found artefacts just lying on the ground. At Dadan, we found a shift schedule carved into stone—a kind of ancient timesheet. It was a powerful reminder of how connected we are to our ancestors.
What have your camel companions, Lulu and Juicy, taught you?
They’re crucial team members—and full of personality. Camels are clever, funny, and sensitive. They’d start fast in the mornings, so we had to jog to keep up. They also love snacking, often yanking me toward tasty bushes. I’ve learned patience and humour from them.
Walking 930km over seven weeks is a major feat. What were your biggest challenges?
Blisters. My feet blistered badly on day one and worsened. I spent three weeks in real pain. Mentally, I had to block it out and keep going. It was tough, but I managed.
You speak fluent Arabic and have years of experience in the region. How does this journey reflect changes you’ve seen in Saudi Arabia?
From an outsider’s perspective, the transformation is incredible. Women’s roles are evolving fast—not just in dress codes, but in deeper ways. I’ve met so many Saudis who are proud of their country and optimistic about the future. It’s inspiring.
You explored environmental projects like species reintroduction. How important is conservation in this region?
It’s clear that significant investment is being made in conservation. I applaud those efforts—they reflect a broader vision for sustainable development and respect for nature.
In today’s digital world, what role does long-form storytelling still play?
People crave connection. Following a real journey—even digitally—is like watching a serial drama. Will my feet hold up? What’s Juicy going to do next? Whether it’s a TikTok or a long article, people engage with stories that unfold over time.
With Stage Two starting in…
