Maldivian Diver Shafraz Naeem to Attempt Record-Breaking Underwater Expedition

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Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) has announced “Across Maldives 2026,” an ambitious underwater record attempt by Maldivian diver Shafraz Naeem, set to begin on 23 January 2026. The expedition marks the first record attempt of the year for the Visit Maldives Book of Records.

Over a period of 15+ days, Shafraz will dive more than 450 kilometres across three atolls, completing approximately 55 dives and spending over 90 hours underwater using a Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV). The record categories include the longest distance covered in open ocean on a single dive using a DPV and the longest distance covered using a DPV within one month.

The initiative aims to position the Maldives as an Ocean Nation and a premier destination for marine, adventure, and experiential tourism. The expedition will highlight the Maldives’ underwater landscapes, rich ecosystems, and deep cultural ties to the sea.

Shafraz will make scheduled stopovers at selected islands, supported by partner hotels and local councils. The journey will be documented through underwater videography, island visit highlights, interviews, and sustainability-focused storytelling, offering global audiences an immersive perspective on the Maldives’ marine heritage.

The expedition is led by Visit Maldives with Shafraz Naeem, supported by Ooredoo Maldives as the tech partner and beOnd Airlines as the airline partner. Across Maldives 2026 marks the launch of a national campaign to elevate the Maldives’ global visibility through record-breaking feats that reflect the nation’s commitment to ocean stewardship.