Jeddah: Inspired by the legendary sea-dwelling creatures, a diving center in Jeddah is offering a first-of-its-kind mermaid diving course for those who want to frolic in cool waters during summer.
Scuba School International in the coastal town of Al-Haddad Scuba offers a whimsical yet exhilarating experience for those looking for an aquatic adventure.
Around the world, mermaids represent beauty, danger, transformation, duality and feminine power. Today they continue to inspire literature, movies, fashion, and even marine conservation efforts.
Ali Ayoub, Al-Haddad Scuba, Certified Mermaid Diver
Arab News spoke to Corinna David, an Austrian scuba diving and swimming instructor known for her groundbreaking approach to mermaid diving. She developed the SSI Mermaid Program after years of expertise in free diving and swimming.
David became a swimming and scuba diving instructor at SSI when she was 18 and has since revolutionized the diving industry, making waves with her innovative techniques and passion for the ocean.
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• In April, Corinna Davids organized the first mermaid diving course for instructors in Saudi Arabia.
• The course includes extensive theory sessions, on-the-water training, and assessments of teaching skills.
Mermaid diving, he explained, is an art form that combines the dolphin kick technique used in swimming with exaggerated, aesthetically pleasing movements. This unique style not only looks beautiful but also ensures efficiency and safety.
“By mastering various fun skills and tricks, SSI mermaids can perform beautifully while maintaining safety protocols,” she told Arab News.
Saudi model Wafa Al-Masri said the mermaid diving course was a 'fun and unique experience'. (supplied)
Davids says all it takes to become a mermaid is basic water confidence. “The program is easily accessible, and to become a mermaid instructor, additional steps need to be completed after becoming a mermaid,” he added.
A mermaid diving experience is incomplete without a mermaid costume. Davids recommends using high-quality monofins, such as the Mahina Monofin, which offer efficiency and aesthetic appeal. A tail skin made of lycra or scuba fabric completes the look and gives mermaids the confidence to shine.
In April, Davids held the first mermaid diving course for instructors in Saudi Arabia, focusing on safety, technique and teaching methods to ensure trainees are able to teach mermaid diving to students of all levels. The course includes extensive theory sessions, on-the-water training, and assessments of teaching abilities.
Initiatives such as the Vision 2030 plan aim to diversify the economy and promote tourism, including the development of new recreational activities such as mermaid diving.
Ali AyubAl-Haddad Scuba, a certified mermaid diver
“The course received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the trainees, who showed significant improvement in the program,” she said.
Newly certified instructors will be able to teach mermaid diving programs throughout Saudi Arabia.
“The primary objective of conducting this course in Saudi Arabia was to introduce a new, fun program that would appeal to children and adults alike. Mermaid diving offers an exciting experience for those hesitant to try scuba diving or freediving,” said Davids.
Corinna Davids, a respected scuba diving and swimming instructor known for her groundbreaking approach to mermaid diving. (Instagram/corinna.flowrebels)
Four participants from different backgrounds participated in the course, including a swimming instructor and lifeguard, two scuba instructors (one of whom is a doctor), and an air traffic controller as well as a free diving instructor.
Ali Ayoub, a certified mermaid diver and scuba instructor at Al-Haddad Scuba, told Arab News: “Saudi Arabia is undergoing social and cultural changes with more emphasis on entertainment and recreational activities.
“Initiatives such as the Vision 2030 plan aim to diversify the economy and promote tourism, including the development of new recreational activities such as mermaid diving.”
Ayub added that mermaid diving requires strong swimming skills and good physical fitness. “Practice swimming regularly, work on your breath-holding techniques, and consider taking free-diving courses to improve your underwater endurance,” he advises.
He added that mermaid divers can participate in educational programs for schools, community groups and public events: “They can share information about marine ecosystems, the threats they face and how people can help. Their fascinating presence encourages people to learn more about these issues.” Can make it attractive and memorable.”
22-year-old Saudi model Wafa Al-Masri took a mermaid diving course under the supervision of coach Ayub. She told Arab News: “It was a fun and unique experience. At first I thought it would be difficult, but with the training and guidance of the coach, I found it easy and enjoyable.
She said that breathing technique, relaxation, and mastering the fin method were new skills that she managed differently in the mermaid course. “The instructor was excellent in providing instruction, making the experience enjoyable and imparting valuable information,” he added.
Davids has written a comprehensive guide for those who want to discover the magic of mermaid diving in Saudi Arabia. The guide provides all the information new divers need to stay safe, make informed decisions and choose the right equipment.
Having trained over 3,000 divers over the past five years, Al-Haddad Scuba specializes in unique activities such as snorkeling, deep diving and night diving, offering immersive experiences of the vibrant underwater world with a community of fellow ocean enthusiasts.
