A Pakistani hiking guide is drawing widespread praise in the UAE after reportedly saving the life of a foreign tourist who suffered heatstroke on a mountain trail in Ras Al Khaimah.
According to online reports, the guide, Faisi Shalmani, was part of a Pakistani hiking group on the popular Stairway to Heaven trail when they were informed that a Filipino woman had collapsed during the hike. She was said to be suffering from severe heatstroke and had fallen into a semi-conscious state.
With the area described as too remote and difficult for an immediate air rescue, Shalmani reportedly gave initial first aid and tried to lower the woman’s body temperature before carrying her on his shoulders down the steep trail.
Reports said he spent around three hours bringing the woman to a safer point where emergency services could take over. She was later shifted for medical treatment and her condition improved.
The incident has drawn attention not only because of the difficult terrain involved, but also because of the quick response that likely prevented the situation from turning fatal.
It has also renewed focus on the dangers of hiking in extreme heat, especially in mountainous areas where rescue access can be limited.
