Musandam, Oman’s northern peninsula, has just made waves with its first-ever international diving festival—a four-day celebration that blended sport, adventure, and sustainability. The event, which kicked off on Monday, drew professional divers, hobbyists, and adventure seekers, all eager to experience the untouched marine beauty of the region.
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Competitions and Underwater Challenges
The festival’s program was packed with activities. Free-diving races, long-distance swims, and kayak sprints across Khor Qadah tested speed and endurance, while underwater photography competitions highlighted the creative side of diving. Divers captured Musandam’s rich coral reefs and marine life, putting the spotlight on the region’s underwater treasures.
Global Diving Icons in Attendance
The event also welcomed international guests who added prestige and inspiration. Egyptian diver Ahmed Gabr, the world record holder for the deepest scuba dive, shared his extraordinary journey with the audience. Bahraini para-athlete Faisal Jawad, a three-time Guinness World Record holder, spoke about diving with disability, inspiring participants with his resilience and achievements.
Sustainability at the Core
Beyond competition, the festival underscored the importance of marine conservation. Divers carried out Musandam’s largest-ever reef clean-up and participated in coral planting projects in protected zones. Workshops covered diving medicine, eco-tourism strategies, and sustainable training efforts designed to preserve Musandam’s marine ecosystem for generations to come.
Exploring Hidden Depths
Some dives went beyond competition, taking teams to Musandam’s deepest sea point. Explorers reported dramatic underwater cliffs, rare rock formations, and vibrant marine life, discoveries that could fuel Musandam’s push toward becoming a leading eco-tourism destination.
Official Statement
“This festival is about showing the world Musandam’s beauty while protecting it,” said Mubarak Al Rahbi, general director of the governor’s office. Backed by government bodies and private sponsors, the initiative forms part of Oman’s broader vision of promoting eco-tourism while safeguarding its natural environment.
As the festival concluded, the message was clear: Musandam is positioning itself as a global destination where diving, adventure, and sustainability come together.
