Mariam Binladen

Dentist
Swimmer
Humanitarian

Mariam's Story

Mariam Binladen is a trailblazer, not only in sports but also in humanitarian advocacy and environmental awareness. As a Saudi endurance swimmer and the first Arab woman to swim the entire length of the River Thames, she has broken barriers and redefined what is possible for women in the region. Her passion for swimming began as a personal challenge but quickly evolved into a powerful platform for activism. With every stroke, Mariam carries messages of hope, resilience, and the need for urgent action on global issues.

In 2016, Mariam made headlines as the first Saudi woman to swim across the English Channel, an achievement that marked a turning point in her journey. But her ambitions have always gone far beyond personal records. Motivated by the suffering of refugees and children affected by war, she dedicated her swims to raising awareness and funds for those in need. Her River Thames swim was a tribute to Syrian refugee children, combining the physical demands of sport with a deep commitment to humanitarian causes.

Mariam’s dedication to public service extends into her professional life as well. Trained as a dentist, she has long held a strong belief in the power of education and healthcare as tools for empowerment. She brings the same discipline and compassion to her advocacy work, serving as a voice for those often left unheard. Whether addressing the water crisis, promoting environmental stewardship, or supporting women's empowerment, Mariam continues to inspire change at both grassroots and global levels.

Through her journey, Mariam Binladen has become more than an athlete—she is a symbol of perseverance, purpose, and progress. Her story is one of breaking norms, building bridges, and championing causes that matter. With every challenge she takes on, she seeks not only to push her own limits but also to uplift others. Today, she uses her platform to encourage young people—especially girls in the Arab world—to dream boldly, act courageously, and believe in their power to create a better future.

Recognized & featured in

Swimming Distinctions

  • First Saudi woman to swim across the English Channel (34 km from England to France).
  • First woman to swim the entire 101-mile (162 km) length of the River Thames, UK.
  • First Saudi woman to swim across the Hellespont (Dardanelles Strait) from Europe to Asia.
  • First Arab woman to swim from Saudi Arabia to Egypt across the Red Sea.
  • Swam 30 km from Al Khobar to Bahrain in 11 hours and 25 minutes, completing the regional open-water challenge.
  • Completed a symbolic swim around Dubai’s World Islands to promote ocean conservation and women’s participation in sports.
Mariam once told Arab News in an interview:
“This event is a part of my continued pledge to raise awareness for the plight of thousands of orphaned Syrian refugees who have lost their parents and guardians, and have been uprooted from their homes, and scattered across different parts of the world. I also wanted to motivate more and more women from the Arab World to take on sports and use their talents to achieve the unachievable, knowing that nothing is impossible”.
“Mariam's dedication to pushing the limits of human endurance is unparalleled. She is not only a remarkable athlete but also a true trailblazer for women in sports in the Arab world.”

From a fellow sports professional

“Mariam’s ability to use her platform to raise awareness for critical global issues, like the refugee crisis and environmental conservation, is truly inspiring. She is a role model for using personal achievements to make a difference.”

From a humanitarian organization

“Mariam’s achievements show young people, especially young girls, that they can break barriers, push boundaries, and make a lasting impact. She is a living testament to the power of perseverance and passion.”

From a youth mentor or community leader

“Through every swim I’ve undertaken, I’ve learned that the greatest challenges are often the ones that push you to not only redefine your limits but to also give back to the world that has given you so much.”

From a personal reflection (Mariam herself)

Documentary

I am Mariam Binladen

​The documentary I Am Mariam Binladen (2019), directed by Vito Robbiani, chronicles Mariam Saleh Binladen's journey to swim across the English Channel.

  • Mariam’s journey from prominent family member to women’s rights advocate.
  • Capturing her intense training and the mental and physical challenges of her swims.
  • Examining the complexities of carrying the Binladen name and her mission to redefine its meaning.
  • Focusing on her efforts to raise awareness for Syrian orphan refugees.
  • Motivating women in the Arab world to break societal barriers and chase their dreams.
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