Saudi Arabia to Bahrain

Dr. Mariam Binladen, has become the first Saudi woman to swim from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The record-breaking swim took place in the early days of April 2025, when Binladen completed the roughly 25-kilometer (15.5-mile) journey across the Gulf waters. Beginning her swim near Al Khobar on Saudi Arabia's eastern coast, she crossed the marine border to arrive triumphantly in Bahrain, greeted by cheering supporters, family members, and regional dignitaries.

A Landmark Achievement for the Region

This accomplishment is not only a personal milestone for Binladen but also a powerful symbol of changing times in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region. As the first Saudi woman to complete such a crossing, she shattered both physical and symbolic barriers, reinforcing the growing empowerment of women in sports and public life throughout the Arab world.

Advocacy Through Adventure

Dr. Mariam Binladen, a dentist and philanthropist, is known for her ambitious open-water swims to raise awareness for global issues. She was the first woman to swim the full length of the River Thames, highlighting the Syrian refugee crisis and global water scarcity. Her latest swim focused on promoting regional unity and environmental awareness in the Arabian Gulf, supported by a team ensuring her safety and documenting the journey.

A New Wave of Possibility

Binladen's swim symbolizes Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 — a push for economic diversity, innovation, and women's empowerment. As Saudi women break barriers across various fields, her journey to Bahrain reflects a bold move toward connection and progress.

Looking Ahead

Dr. Mariam Binladen sees this swim as part of a series promoting regional unity and youth empowerment. She hopes to inspire Gulf youth—especially women—to dream big and break barriers. Standing triumphant in Bahrain, she showed that change isn’t coming—it’s already here.