In a remarkable blend of innovation, connectivity, and marine conservation, a historic underwater panel discussion was successfully held off the coast of Fulhadhoo in Baa Atoll, achieving a new Guinness World Record for the world’s largest underwater panel discussion. The event was spearheaded by Ooredoo Maldives, demonstrating the power and reliability of its advanced telecommunications network in one of the most unique environments on Earth.
Held five metres beneath the ocean surface within the vibrant marine ecosystem of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the event brought together five speakers equipped with specialised waterproof communication gear. The panel featured prominent voices, including the Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam, CEO of Ooredoo Maldives Khalid Al-Hamadi, Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem from the Maldives National Defence Force, and Ooredoo team members Shabeen Ali and Afsheen Mohamed.
Each participant addressed the global audience through a carefully synchronised setup that enabled seamless two-minute speeches, delivered using pressurised underwater headsets. The entire session was streamed live to viewers in Malé, Qatar, and internationally, showcasing the resilience and real-time capabilities of Ooredoo’s digital infrastructure. This technical feat required meticulous planning involving synchronisation of audio and video delivery, real-time communication in a submerged environment, and uninterrupted broadcasting under challenging underwater conditions.
CEO Khalid Al-Hamadi emphasised the broader meaning of the initiative: “This achievement goes beyond setting a world record. It serves as a powerful demonstration of how our network enables uninterrupted voice and video calls—even from underwater—and delivers flawless connectivity to international audiences.”
The underwater panel exemplified Ooredoo Maldives’ ongoing commitment to expanding digital access and showcasing technological excellence across the Maldives, especially in remote and ecologically sensitive areas. As part of Ooredoo Group’s global vision to empower communities through inclusive connectivity, the event also underlined the company’s sustainability values by drawing global attention to marine conservation in one of the world’s most precious biospheres.
The event not only placed the Maldives in the global spotlight for its innovative use of technology but also reinforced the country’s unique positioning as a destination that blends natural beauty with technological advancement. It provided a platform to raise awareness about ocean conservation while promoting the Maldives as a forward-thinking destination for eco-tourism and digital experiences.
A short documentary capturing the behind-the-scenes preparation and execution of the record-setting dive has been released and is available for public viewing on YouTube. The film provides an inside look into the cutting-edge technology, coordination, and environmental considerations involved in staging this one-of-a-kind event.
With this successful record, the Maldives continues to inspire and attract travelers seeking not only natural beauty but also authentic experiences shaped by innovation and sustainability. Ooredoo Maldives remains at the forefront of this vision, continually redefining the boundaries of connectivity and experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking island nations.
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