Born: 1993 (Baghdad, Iraq)
Biography:
Mawj Aldarraji (Arabic: , born June 6, 1993) is an Iraqi mountaineer and architect, widely regarded as the first female mountaineer from Iraq. Known for her determination and passion, Aldarraji is currently working through the seven summits challenge, while also making significant contributions as a vocal advocate for female empowerment and women’s rights. Her inspiring journey, from battling medical issues in her childhood to conquering the world’s highest peaks, has made her a symbol of resilience and courage.
Aldarraji was born in Baghdad and spent her early years there until the age of ten. In 2003, due to the rise in kidnappings following the U.S. invasion, she and her family relocated to the United Arab Emirates, where they continue to reside. Aldarraji also spent time in Toronto, Canada. Throughout her childhood, she faced severe medical problems, including life-threatening illnesses affecting her immune, respiratory, and cardiac systems. However, Aldarraji attributes her self-confidence and belief in gender equality to her supportive parents.
Aldarraji’s passion for mountaineering emerged unexpectedly after a chance encounter with friends in Malaysia. Despite having a phobia of heights, she was determined to overcome her fears and embraced mountain climbing as a way to challenge herself. Initially met with apprehension from her family, they eventually became her biggest supporters. Her first substantial summit was Mount Kinabalu in Malaysia, followed by Annapurna Poon Hill in Nepal, Mount Bromo in Indonesia, Mount Elbrus in Russia, and Jebel Jais and other mountains in the Emirates. Her highest elevation to date has been reaching the base camp of Everest, a significant milestone at 5,500 meters. Following each climb, Aldarraji proudly raises the Iraqi flag, symbolizing her achievements.
While balancing a full-time architecture job, Aldarraji dedicates 2-3 hours every day to training for her climbs. Her ultimate goal is to become the first-ever Iraqi national to summit Mount Everest, a feat that holds enormous personal significance. Alongside her personal ambitions, Aldarraji hopes her story inspires other young Iraqis, particularly women, to consider mountain climbing and pursue their dreams fearlessly. She also actively uses the publicity garnered from her summit attempts to raise resources and awareness for humanitarian efforts in Iraq.
Beyond mountaineering, Aldarraji possesses a range of other hobbies that reflect her adventurous spirit and zest for life. She enjoys boxing, swimming, scuba diving, running, Spartan racing, as well as creating visual art through drawing and photography. Her diverse interests showcase her enthusiasm for pushing boundaries and embracing new challenges.