The Dhiraagu Malé Open Swimming Competition 2026 is set to return to Rasfannu, Malé, on 21 and 22 August, as organisers seek to expand participation in open water swimming and position the event as a larger fixture in the Maldives’ sporting calendar.
Organised by Swim Maldives, the competition is described as the largest open water swimming event in the country. It aims to encourage wider participation in the sport while raising awareness about the importance of protecting the Maldives’ marine environment.
Registration is now open for this year’s competition, with participants able to sign up for the 1km, 500m and 250m race categories. A new 500m Team Relay category has also been introduced for the 2026 edition, allowing friends, families and clubs to take part as teams.
Dhiraagu said its support for the event forms part of its wider efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and community participation through mass sporting activities. The company also highlighted swimming as an important life skill in the Maldives, given the country’s island geography and close connection to the ocean.
Swim Maldives said open water swimming has gained increasing momentum in the country, following the previous edition of the Dhiraagu Malé Open and the debut of OCEANMAN Maldives. The organisation expects stronger participation from international swimmers and national teams this year.
Last year’s Dhiraagu Malé Open attracted 350 swimmers from across the Maldives, with more than 340 participants completing their races. Participants ranged from six to 65 years of age, reflecting the event’s broad appeal and the growing interest in open water swimming nationwide.
Dhiraagu said it remains committed to supporting initiatives that encourage active lifestyles, strengthen community engagement, and create more opportunities for people across the Maldives to participate in sports and recreational activities.
