Maldivian Diver Shafraz Naeem Added to Visit Maldives Book of Records for Two Underwater Records
Maldivian diver Shafraz Naeem has been added to the Visit Maldives Book of Records for setting two incredible underwater records during the Across Maldives 2026 expedition, which was conducted in partnership with Visit Maldives.
The two new records added to the Visit Maldives Book of Records are the longest total underwater distance covered and the longest continuous underwater traverse. During the two-week long Across Maldives 2026 expedition, Naeem managed to complete over 55 dives, covering an incredible underwater distance of 335 kilometers. He also managed to complete a single continuous underwater dive of 16.5 kilometers, which lasted over five hours and 30 minutes.
Apart from these records, Naeem's record set in 2022 has also been added to the Visit Maldives Book of Records. This record marked the longest open-water scuba dive ever recorded in the Maldives and the surrounding region. The 50-hour dive was conducted at Anantara Lagoon to celebrate the 50th anniversary of tourism and diving in the Maldives.
The Across Maldives 2026 expedition came to a close with an induction ceremony held on 4th February 2026 at Phase One Beach in Hulhumalé, after
Addressing the gathering, Naeem said that the achievement was important but added that his personal mission was more than just breaking records. He hoped that his personal journey would encourage more Maldivians to take up technical diving and raise awareness about marine conservation. He also thanked Visit Maldives and the sponsors of the expedition for their assistance. Visit Maldives CEO Ibrahim Shiuree said that the inductions are an important addition to the Visit Maldives Book of Records and that the significance of recording achievements related to the country’s marine heritage cannot be overstated. He also added that the expedition is an important step in further enhancing the Maldives’ reputation internationally in relation to ocean-related activities.
The expedition has been made possible through the assistance of several partners, including State Trading Organisation as a partner, Ooredoo Maldives as the technology partner, and beOnd Airlines as the airline partner. Other partners include H78 Hulhumalé, Ocean Junkies, and Safari (Southern Cross). According to Visit Maldives, the Across Maldives 2026 expedition is a part of its overall strategy to promote the Maldives through initiatives related to the marine environment and conservation awareness.
