Muscat – Oman woke up on Saturday to the tragic news of the death of Nadhira Al Harthy, the first Omani woman to summit Mount Everest. The trailblazing mountaineer died in an avalanche in Pakistan’s Broad Peak. As news of Nadhira’s death spread, people across Oman and beyond mourned a woman who had raised the sultanate’s flag on some of the world’s highest summits. Friends, diplomats, adventurers and members of the wider community remembered not only her achievements but also her warmth, humility and ability to inspire others.

Dornath Aryal, former Ambassador of Nepal to Oman

I was extremely saddened to learn of the tragic death of Oman’s first female Mount Everest summiteer Nadhira Al Harthy, alongside renowned Nepali mountaineers, in an avalanche. During my four-year tenure, Nadhira and the embassy developed a close friendship through our collaboration on various programmes. She attended our annual Everest Day celebrations every year as a special guest, and we also had the opportunity to go hiking together several times. It is still difficult to believe that she is no longer with us. We extend our deepest condolences to her bereaved family, loved ones and all those mourning this heartbreaking loss. 

Dr Sarmila Parajuli Dhakal, former Ambassador of Nepal to Oman

Nadhira was not just a dear friend but a beautiful part of my life in Oman. Our families shared a close bond, and I was blessed to witness her extraordinary journey with pride and admiration. I followed every step of her Everest expedition until she reached the summit, and we remained closely connected throughout. Today, I not only mourn an extraordinary Omani woman but a cherished friend whose warmth, kindness and beautiful spirit will remain in my heart forever.

Khalil Al Aufi, member of Oman Riders

The news of Nadhira’s passing was painful for all of us. We have lost a woman who achieved so much for this country and raised the sultanate’s flag on some of the world’s highest peaks. Her name will forever be remembered in history. Rest in peace, our dear sister.

Sulaiman Al Naabi, Omani mountaineer

We were a small team preparing to travel to Nepal in a few weeks, but we called off the trip following the tragic news of Nadhira and the brave climbers who died in the avalanche in Pakistan. She was a strong woman, and memories of her keep returning to me. This is a deeply painful time for Oman and the adventure sports community.

Maggie Jeans, author and social worker

Some stories remind us how thin the line can be between extraordinary achievement and unimaginable loss. Ten experienced mountaineers lost their lives in the avalanche on Broad Peak. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of every climber who will not return home, including Nadhira Al Harthy. She inspired so many people in Oman. I hope they will be remembered not for how they died, but for how they lived. Nadhira was an exceptional speaker. I particularly remember her presentation following her successful ascent of Everest.

Piya Pawani, adventurer and avid trekker

The first time I met Nadhira was at the Nepalese Embassy. I was not simply meeting a mountaineer; I was meeting a woman whose passion for life was impossible to miss. She carried a quiet confidence and remained humble despite her extraordinary achievements. Her genuine warmth made everyone around her feel seen. What hurts most is knowing that she left this world while doing what she loved. It is heartbreaking, but it also reflects the fearless way she chose to live. She did not simply climb mountains; she inspired others to believe that their own mountains could also be conquered. Her journey may have ended, but the impact she had on so many lives never will. I am grateful that our paths crossed. She was a true friend and an inspiration.

Nasser Khalid al Salmi, founder of Oman Adventurer Dream Team 

The news of Nadhira’s passing came as a great shock. My interactions with her were always marked by her kindness, warmth and genuine character. She had a positive presence that touched those around her, and she will be remembered with great respect and affection. My heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace.