Ethan Guo, a 19-year-old pilot, has arrived in Dubai as part of his ambitious quest to become the youngest individual to fly solo across all seven continents. This endeavor is driven by a noble objective: to raise $1 million for research and treatment of childhood cancer. While in Dubai, Guo intends to visit cancer research facilities, meet with young patients at local hospitals, and engage with students to highlight the significance of combating childhood cancer.
Prior to his arrival in Dubai on August 25, Guo made short stops in Doha and Riyadh. He landed at the ExecuJet Middle East terminal at Dubai International Airport, expressing his appreciation for the warm reception he received in the Arabian cities. "I was greeted with open arms in Riyadh, and the hospitality I experienced was truly memorable. I anticipated a similar welcome in Dubai, and it exceeded my expectations," Guo remarked.
Upon his approach to the UAE after a two-hour flight from Doha, Guo was captivated by the sight of Abu Dhabi's skyline. "The coastal buildings were enormous, and the infrastructure was breathtaking. It was a remarkable fusion of urban development and natural desert scenery," Guo described. As he neared Dubai, the Burj Khalifa caught his eye, leaving him in awe of its towering presence. "From above, it appeared as a colossal structure reaching towards the clouds," he noted.
The Palm Islands also left a profound impression on Guo as he approached Dubai International Airport. "The engineering marvel of the Palm Islands is incredible. Seeing them from the air was a unique experience that left me speechless," he added. Guo's landing in Dubai was particularly memorable, as he was directed to approach from the land side, affording him a panoramic view of the city.
Over the next three days, Guo plans to visit several hospitals in Dubai, interact with medical professionals, and learn about the cutting-edge research being conducted in the city's cancer centers. "I'm keen to see how Dubai's rapid development translates into medical research and hope to share these insights with other communities," Guo stated. He also intends to engage with students as schools reopen, emphasizing the importance of health education and the fight against cancer.
Guo's journey is not only a testament to his passion for aviation, which began at age 13 and led him to earn his private pilot's license by 17, but also a response to a personal tragedy. "My cousin's diagnosis with blood cancer at 18 was a turning point for me. It underscored the importance of supporting cancer research, and I decided to leverage my love for flying to make a difference," Guo explained. His ultimate goal is to set a world record and inspire others to contribute to the cause of childhood cancer.
Starting his journey on May 31 from Geneva, Switzerland, Guo has since traveled through Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, with upcoming stops in Karachi, New Delhi, and beyond. He plans to visit nearly 60 countries and cover over 80,000 kilometers in his quest to reach all seven continents.
