📅 Timeline of Key Events
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March 10, 2017:
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5:00 AM: Dr. Mariam begins her swim from the entrance of the Dubai Creek in the Al Shindagha area of Dubai's historic district.
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2:10 PM: She completes the swim at Al Ghubaiba Station, near the Four Seasons Hotel, after 9 hours and 10 minutes.
📍 Swim Route Overview
March 10, 2017:
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5:00 AM: Dr. Mariam begins her swim from the entrance of the Dubai Creek in the Al Shindagha area of Dubai's historic district.
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2:10 PM: She completes the swim at Al Ghubaiba Station, near the Four Seasons Hotel, after 9 hours and 10 minutes.
Dr. Mariam's swim commenced at the Dubai Creek entrance in Al Shindagha, a historic district in Dubai, and concluded at Al Ghubaiba Station, adjacent to the Four Seasons Hotel. Over the course of 24 kilometers, she navigated through the Dubai Water Canal, contending with strong currents at the canal's entrance and passing by several of Dubai's iconic landmarks.
🏊♀️ Challenges and Significance
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Strong Currents: The entrance and mouth of the canal presented challenging currents, requiring significant endurance and skill.
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Landmarks: The swim offered views of some of Dubai's most striking tourist sites, adding both beauty and distraction to the challenge.
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Humanitarian Cause: This endeavor was part of Dr. Mariam's continued efforts to support orphaned Syrian refugees, raising awareness and funds for their plight.
Strong Currents: The entrance and mouth of the canal presented challenging currents, requiring significant endurance and skill.
Landmarks: The swim offered views of some of Dubai's most striking tourist sites, adding both beauty and distraction to the challenge.
Humanitarian Cause: This endeavor was part of Dr. Mariam's continued efforts to support orphaned Syrian refugees, raising awareness and funds for their plight.
Dubai Creek & Canal
On March 10, 2017, Dr. Mariam Saleh Binladen etched her name into the history books with a groundbreaking 24-kilometer swim through Dubai Creek and the Dubai Water Canal, becoming the first woman to complete this unique route through one of the region’s most iconic urban waterways.
This remarkable achievement highlighted not only her endurance as a long-distance swimmer but also her unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes—particularly raising awareness for orphaned Syrian refugee children, a cause close to her heart.
A Journey Through Old and New Dubai
Dr. Mariam’s swim began at 5:00 AM from the historic Al Shindagha area, near the entrance to Dubai Creek. This part of the city is rich in cultural heritage and has served as a trading port for centuries. From there, she swam through the bustling waters of the Creek, into the Dubai Water Canal—a modern engineering marvel that connects the Creek to the Arabian Gulf, slicing through the heart of the city.
Her journey ended at Al Ghubaiba Station, near the Four Seasons Hotel, at around 2:10 PM, completing the swim in 9 hours and 10 minutes.
Navigating Urban Waters
Unlike traditional open-water swims in oceans or rivers, the Dubai Creek and Canal route presented unique challenges. Mariam had to navigate:
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Strong tidal currents, especially at the mouth of the canal
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Urban marine traffic, including abras, yachts, and ferries
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Changing water conditions, as the route passed through both natural and man-made waterways
The swim route showcased Dubai’s contrast of old and new—from traditional souks and wind towers in Deira and Bur Dubai, to modern architecture and gleaming skyscrapers along the canal.
More Than a Swim: A Message of Hope
While the swim was physically demanding, its purpose extended far beyond personal achievement. Dr. Mariam used the platform to shine a spotlight on the plight of Syrian children who have lost their families due to war. By taking on this formidable challenge, she hoped to inspire global compassion and encourage support for displaced and vulnerable children.
Breaking Barriers
As a Saudi woman taking on high-profile endurance swims in public spaces, Dr. Mariam continues to challenge stereotypes and break barriers for Arab women in sports. Her presence in the water—amid Dubai’s symbolic blend of tradition and modernity—sent a powerful message about courage, resilience, and the role of women in reshaping regional narratives.
A Lasting Legacy
Dr. Mariam Binladen’s 24km swim through Dubai Creek and the Water Canal was more than a sporting feat—it was a powerful act of purpose and perseverance. In a city built on breaking boundaries, her swim became a symbol of resilience, compassion, and the power of sport to inspire global awareness and change.
“I am incredibly happy to have completed the challenge of swimming around the World Islands in Dubai. I sincerely appreciate the efforts of the Dubai International Marine Club and its team for ensuring the success of this initiative, which encourages women in sports while also raising awareness about marine conservation and ocean cleanliness”.
~ Mariam Saleh Binladen