Diver Shafraz Naeem enters Visit Maldives Book of Records with two underwater achievements
Maldivian diver Shafraz Naeem has been entered into the Visit Maldives Book of Records for two achievements recorded during the Across Maldives 2026 expedition, organised in collaboration with Visit Maldives.
The records recognised under the Visit Maldives Book of Records are the longest underwater distance covered and the longest single-stretch underwater traverse.
According to Visit Maldives, Naeem covered a total underwater distance of 335 kilometres over a two-week period, completing more than 55 dives. He also completed a continuous underwater dive covering 16.5 kilometres in a single session lasting more than five hours and 30 minutes.
In addition, Naeem’s earlier achievement from 2022—the longest recorded open-water scuba dive in the Maldives and the region—was also inducted into the Book of Records. That dive lasted 50 hours and was completed at Anantara Lagoon to mark the 50th anniversary of tourism and diving in the Maldives.
The Across Maldives 2026 expedition concluded with an induction ceremony held on 4 February 2026 at Phase One Beach in Hulhumalé, following the completion of Naeem’s final dive. At the ceremony, Naeem was presented with a commemorative coin and certificate by Tourism Minister Thoriq Ibrahim, and Ibrahim Shiuree, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Visit Maldives.
Speaking at the event, Naeem said the record entries were significant but noted that his objective extended beyond the records themselves. He said he hoped to encourage Maldivians to explore technical diving and to strengthen awareness of the marine environment. He also thanked Visit Maldives and the sponsors for their support.
Visit Maldives CEO Ibrahim Shiuree said the entries mark an important addition to the Visit Maldives Book of Records and reflect efforts to document achievements linked to the country’s marine environment. He said the expedition contributes to the Maldives’ international profile in ocean-related activities.
The expedition was supported by several partners. State Trading Organisation participated as a partner, while Ooredoo Maldives served as the technology partner. beOnd Airlines was the airline partner. Additional support was provided by H78 Hulhumalé, Ocean Junkies and Safari (Southern Cross).
Visit Maldives said the Across Maldives 2026 expedition forms part of its broader initiatives to promote the Maldives through activities linked to the marine environment and conservation awareness.
