Imagine suiting up in scuba gear, descending into the crystal-clear waters of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and then… starting a serious panel discussion with government ministers and executives—all while bubbles float upward and fish swim by. It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but in May 2025, Ooredoo Maldives turned this wild idea into reality. They hosted the world’s largest underwater panel discussion off the coast of Fulhadhoo in Baa Atoll, earning an official Guinness World Record. As someone who’s always been fascinated by the Maldives—I’ve snorkeled those waters myself and felt that magical pull of the ocean—this event hit close to home. It wasn’t just a stunt; it blended cutting-edge telecom tech with a deep respect for the environment that makes the Maldives so special.
This achievement highlights how innovation can push boundaries in unexpected ways, especially in a nation where the ocean isn’t just a backdrop—it’s everything.
What Exactly Happened Underwater?
The event took place on May 3, 2025, at a depth of about five meters in the pristine waters surrounding Fulhadhoo island.
Five panelists, all experienced divers equipped with full-face masks and specialized communication gear, delivered speeches lasting over two minutes each. The discussion focused on technology, innovation, and marine conservation, with the entire session broadcast live to audiences in Malé, Qatar, and beyond. No glitches, no dropped signals—just seamless connectivity powered by Ooredoo’s robust network.
This setup required meticulous planning: pressurized headsets for clear speech, synchronized timing to avoid overlap in bubbly audio, and underwater cameras for real-time streaming. It was a testament to human ingenuity meeting the challenges of the deep blue.
Who Were the Brave Panelists?
The lineup featured a mix of leaders committed to the Maldives’ future.
- Ahmed Shiyam, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources
- Khalid Al-Hamadi, CEO of Ooredoo Maldives
- Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem, from the Maldives National Defence Force
- Shabeen Ali, Ooredoo’s Director of Operations
- Afsheen Mohamed, Senior Manager of Transmission at Ooredoo
A select underwater audience joined them, including representatives from the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC). Each speaker used the platform to emphasize sustainability and digital advancement, turning the record attempt into a meaningful conversation.
Why the Maldives Keeps Making Underwater Headlines
The Maldives has a knack for these spectacular underwater events, often to spotlight climate vulnerabilities.
Remember the 2009 underwater cabinet meeting led by then-President Mohamed Nasheed? That 30-minute session in a lagoon sent a global SOS about rising sea levels. Ooredoo’s panel echoes that spirit but adds a modern twist: proving that even underwater, we can stay connected. Other records include mass freediving events and snorkeling gatherings, but this was the first for a structured panel discussion.
It’s no coincidence these happen here—the islands’ low-lying atolls make climate action personal, and the stunning marine life provides the perfect stage.
The Tech Behind the Bubbles: Ooredoo’s Network Shine
At its core, this wasn’t just about diving; it was a live demo of Ooredoo Maldives’ capabilities.
The company, a pioneer in bringing 3G, 4G, and 5G to the nation, used the event to showcase unbreakable connectivity. Voice and video streamed flawlessly from underwater to international viewers, highlighting how their infrastructure bridges even the most remote—or submerged—locations. CEO Khalid Al-Hamadi called it “proof that there are no limits to innovation,” and honestly, watching the footage, it’s hard not to agree. In a country spread across hundreds of islands, reliable networks like this are lifelines.
Environmental Angle: Celebrating a UNESCO Treasure
Baa Atoll, where the panel unfolded, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its biodiversity, including manta ray gatherings at Hanifaru Bay.
By hosting here, Ooredoo underscored their commitment to sustainability. The discussion touched on protecting ocean resources, aligning with broader efforts in the Maldives to combat climate change. It’s refreshing to see a telecom giant not just chasing profits but using their platform for environmental awareness—especially in a place where the health of the reefs directly impacts tourism and livelihoods.
Planning and Logistics: No Small Feat
Pulling this off required serious coordination.
Divers needed custom waterproof comms gear, and the team practiced speech synchronization to ensure clarity through water’s acoustics. Sound and video systems were rigged for live transmission, with backups for safety. Ooredoo released a behind-the-scenes documentary on YouTube that captures the preparation—it’s worth watching for the sheer ambition. Challenges like equalizing pressure while talking? They nailed it with training and tech.
Pros and Cons of Underwater Events Like This
These spectacles grab attention, but they’re not without trade-offs.
Pros:
- Raises global awareness for climate issues in vulnerable nations
- Showcases technological advancements in creative ways
- Boosts tourism by highlighting the Maldives’ unique beauty
- Inspires innovation in connectivity and sustainability
Cons:
- High logistical costs and planning intensity
- Potential minor disturbances to marine life (though minimized here)
- Risk of being seen as gimmicky if not tied to real action
- Safety concerns for participants in open water
Overall, the positives outweigh the drawbacks when done responsibly, as this was.
Comparison: Ooredoo’s Record vs. Past Maldives Underwater Milestones
| Event | Year | Participants | Purpose | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underwater Cabinet Meeting | 2009 | Cabinet members | Climate SOS | First of its kind globally |
| Mass Freediving (Neyvaa) | 2019 | 521 | Tourism promotion | Most people freediving simultaneously |
| Static Apnea (Neyvaa 2) | 2022 | 455+ | Breath-holding record | Held across multiple resorts |
| Ooredoo Underwater Panel | 2025 | 5 speakers + audience | Innovation & conservation | Live broadcast, largest panel discussion |
Ooredoo’s stands out for its tech integration and live global reach.
Broader Impact on Telecom and Conservation
This record positions Ooredoo as more than a service provider—they’re innovators shaping the Maldives’ digital future.
It also amplifies calls for marine protection, encouraging other companies to tie stunts to substance. In my view, events like this remind us that fun and purpose can coexist; I laughed imagining the panelists adjusting masks mid-sentence, but it drove home a serious message about our oceans.
People Also Ask
What is the Guinness World Record held by Ooredoo Maldives? The largest underwater panel discussion, with five speakers delivering extended talks live from beneath the sea.
When and where did the Ooredoo underwater panel take place? On May 3, 2025, off Fulhadhoo in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Why did Ooredoo Maldives host an underwater panel? To demonstrate network strength, celebrate innovation, and highlight marine conservation.
Has the Maldives held other underwater events for records? Yes, including the 2009 cabinet meeting and multiple freediving/snorkeling records.
How was the underwater panel broadcast live? Using specialized underwater communication gear and Ooredoo’s network for seamless streaming.
FAQ
Is the Ooredoo underwater panel video available to watch? Yes, Ooredoo released a short documentary on YouTube detailing the event and behind-the-scenes prep.
Did the event disrupt marine life in Baa Atoll? No reports of disruption; it was held in a controlled area with emphasis on environmental respect.
What topics were discussed in the underwater panel? Innovation in technology, digital connectivity in remote areas, and sustainable ocean resource management.
How does this compare to the famous 2009 underwater cabinet meeting? Both raised climate awareness, but Ooredoo’s added live global broadcasting and a focus on telecom innovation.
Can tourists experience similar underwater activities in the Maldives? Absolutely—many resorts offer snorkeling, diving, and even underwater dining, though nothing quite matches this record yet.
In the end, Ooredoo Maldives didn’t just set a record; they created a moment that bridges the gap between technology and the natural world we all share. I’ve been lucky enough to dive in those waters, feeling that profound quiet below the surface, and this event captures why the Maldives feels so alive. It’s a reminder that even in the face of challenges like climate change, creativity and connection can bubble up in the most unexpected places. If you’re planning a trip there, keep an eye out for more innovations—these islands never stop surprising.