Born and raised in a small Lebanese mountain village, Zeidan has developed his connection with nature from an early age. However, the 2006 war in Lebanon has prompted him to leave his homeland for stability and better opportunities.

The UAE has been the place where he decided to start a new chapter.

“What initially brought me here was the search for opportunity, but what made me stay was the experience of growing, belonging, and being able to turn my ambitions into reality,” Zeidan told Gulf News.

While much of Zeidan’s work takes place outdoors, his community initiatives focus on supporting people and preserving traditions.

Through Yook, he supports women in his hometown in Lebanon by promoting traditional food production and rural heritage. The initiative aims to support women’s empowerment while helping preserve local practices and traditions that are part of the community’s identity.

Another important part of his work is HappyNas Humanitarian Adventurer, an initiative focused on supporting underprivileged children and orphans.

Zeidan has noted that the knowledge, experience, and opportunities people gain should eventually be shared with those who may not have access to the same resources.

His humanitarian involvement has also extended to the UAE. He has served as a project leader with Blood Donor UAE, working with the Ministry of Health and local blood banks to organise regular mobile blood donation campaigns across Dubai and Sharjah.

Beyond humanitarian campaigns, Zeidan has seen outdoor activities as another way of giving back. Through his work in the UAE, he aims to make outdoor experiences accessible, encourage healthier lifestyles, and introduce more people to nature.

Leading hiking adventures has paved way for him to bring together people who might otherwise never meet. These experiences teach important life skills, including resilience, teamwork, respect and responsibility towards the environment.

His interest in wellbeing has extended beyond physical activity. He is a certified holistic coach specialising in sound healing and breathwork.

Having spent more than two decades building his career and community in the UAE, Zeidan has encouraged newcomers to look beyond professional success when starting a life in the Emirates.

“Don’t come to the UAE only to build a career, come with the intention of building a meaningful life,” said Zeidan.

He has advised residents to remain curious, work hard, embrace the country’s diversity, and build genuine relationships. He has emphasised that people should support the communities around them and make giving back part of their lives.

Most importantly, he has urged everyone to measure success by the positive difference they make rather than their job titles or financial achievements.

“The UAE has given many of us the opportunity to build our dreams. I believe the best way to appreciate that opportunity is to help others build theirs.”