First Saudi Woman Conquers Mount Everest

Raha Moharrak became the first Saudi woman to climb Mount Everest on Saturday. The graphic designer took the challenge as a part of the “Arabs with Attitude” expedition, which also included an Iranian, a Palestinian, and a Qatari also aiming to be the first from his nation to reach the top of the mountain. The team is working to earn funds for the organization, Reach Out Asia.

Moharrak spent many months training with previous climbs including Aconcagua, Argentina’s highest peak. She comes from a very traditional and conservative family, which made it difficult for her to get permission to climb the mountain. Her climb is now considered one of the latest signs of changing opinions about women and sports in Saudi Arabia.