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UK adventurer goes on Dubai endurance trip...

DUBAI — "Difficulties are just things to overcome."

The physically-challenged British adventurer and inspirational speaker Michael McGrath believes that these words from Anglo-Irish explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton inspired him to create history by becoming the only disabled person in the world to have reached both the North and South Poles.

He went to the North Pole in 2002 and the South Pole in 2004.

McGrath, who is currently in Dubai to attend the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference and the Arabian Travel Market, yesterday visited Dubai's major tourist attractions, places of interest and hotels on a mission titled "24 Hour Dubai Accessibility Endurance Challenge."

"I call it endurance because I can't walk, I use a power chair and I have muscle wasting disease, muscular dystrophy," he said.

This is McGrath's third visit to Dubai. McGrath, 40, who was born with muscular dystrophy, visited the Golf Club, Mall of the Emirates, Hilton Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Dubai Museum as part of his endurance tour of the city. He was accompanied by his wife, Sue, and a tour guide.

Commenting on the facilities in some of Dubai's hotels, he said hoteliers need to develop strategies that address the multi-generational needs, wants and desires. He added that the hotels should offer design and amenities that cater to the different needs of the elderly and physically-challenged visitors.

He, however, appreciated the excellent facilities that are available at the Dubai International Airport for physically-challenged passengers.