Saudi Arabia to Egypt

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Dr. Mariam Binladen Makes History as First Arab Woman to Swim from KSA to Egypt.

A Record-Breaking Swim Across the Red Sea

In a powerful display of endurance and advocacy, Dr. Mariam Saleh Binladen has become the first Arab and Saudi woman to swim across the Red Sea from Saudi Arabia to Egypt. Her 9-kilometer journey from Tiran Island to Sharm El Sheikh took just over four hours, marking a historic milestone in both sports and regional history.

Raising Awareness Through the Coral Swim Initiative

The swim was part of the Coral Swim Initiative, a campaign to raise awareness about the threatened coral reefs of the Red Sea. The initiative coincided with the COP27 climate summit in Egypt, highlighting the urgent need for global action on marine conservation.

Swimming with Purpose: Environmental Advocacy in Action

Dr. Binladen was accompanied by Lewis Pugh, a renowned British-South African endurance swimmer and the United Nations Patron of the Oceans. Pugh was undertaking a 160-kilometer swim across the Red Sea, and together, their efforts brought global attention to the vulnerability of ocean ecosystems.

Challenges Faced During the Swim

Despite her experience, the Red Sea swim was far from easy. Dr. Binladen battled strong tides, navigated through waters known for shark activity, and endured long hours in open sea. She later described the experience as “life-changing,” encouraging others to challenge themselves and support important causes.

Inspiration for Future Generations

Dr. Mariam Binladen’s crossing is more than a physical triumph—it’s a symbol of courage, resilience, and purpose. By merging sport with environmental activism, she is creating waves not just in the water, but in the global movement for climate and gender equity.

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🌊 Swim Conditions

• Water Type: Open ocean, with strong tidal currents, waves, and variable visibility.

• Water Temperature: Typically around 26–28°C (79–82°F) in October.

• Weather: Favorable; calm seas and warm temperatures were reported during the swim.

• Support: Accompanied by safety kayaks and a support boat for hydration and navigation; Lewis Pugh, a British-South African UN Ocean Advocate, swam alongside her.