Dhiraagu Malé Open 2026 concludes with record 420-plus swimmers
The Dhiraagu Malé Open 2026 has successfully concluded with over 420 swimmers, making this year’s competition the largest open water swimming event in the Male’.
Held from 21 to 22 August 2026 at Rasfannu, Malé, the competition brought together swimmers from across the country for two days of exciting open water racing. Organised by Swim Maldives, the event continues to provide a key platform to promote open water swimming, encourage greater participation in the sport and raise awareness about protecting the Maldives’ marine environment.
Participants competed across 1km, 500m and 250m race categories, with swimmers ranging from 6 years old to 79 years old. The wide age range reflected the inclusive nature of the competition and the growing interest in open water swimming among people of different ages and experience levels. Adding a new team element to this year’s event, the competition also introduced the 500m Team Relay, giving friends, families and swimming clubs the opportunity to race together and share the experience as a team.
Inclusivity remains a core part of all Swim Maldives events. Swimmers from Special Olympics Maldives and para swimmers participated across various distances at the Dhiraagu Malé Open 2026, competing alongside other participants within the same race categories. The event is designed to create an inclusive environment where swimmers of different abilities, ages and experience levels can take part together.
With strong participation and an encouraging mix of young and experienced swimmers, this year’s Dhiraagu Malé Open highlighted the continued growth of open water swimming in the country and the enthusiasm surrounding the sport.
Dhiraagu remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles, strengthen community engagement and create meaningful opportunities for people across the Maldives to participate in sports and recreational activities.
