Dr. Mariam Binladen: A Trailblazer in Open-Water Swimming and Humanitarian Efforts

Dr. Mariam Binladen, a Saudi swimmer, completed the 30km Khalid bin Hamad Swimming Challenge from Alkhobar to Bahrain in 11 hours, 25 minutes. Known for her pioneering swims, she has broken barriers for women in sports and contributed significantly to humanitarian efforts, advocating for women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia.

In a remarkable display of endurance, Dr. Mariam Binladen, a distinguished Saudi open-water swimmer, recently completed the grueling Khalid bin Hamad Swimming Challenge, successfully traversing a distance of 30 kilometers from Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia, to Salman City, Bahrain. Dr. Binladen accomplished this feat in an impressive time of 11 hours, 25 minutes, and 47 seconds, further establishing her reputation as a pioneer in long-distance swimming.

Dr. Binladen has a remarkable history of achievements as she became the first Arab woman to swim across the Red Sea to Egypt in October 2022 and the first female from the Gulf region to navigate the English Channel in August 2016. She undertook this latest challenge with careful preparations, having monitored various environmental factors to ensure her safety and success.

In her interview with Arab News, Dr. Binladen expressed her dedication to the swim, stating, “This swim was on my radar for 7 years.” She emphasized the challenges posed by unpredictable weather conditions in the Gulf of Bahrain. For this swim, she meticulously studied factors such as tides, wind speed, wave patterns, and marine life cycles to optimize her performance and mitigate risks.

Dr. Binladen recounted the trials of night swimming in cold waters, noting the necessity of feeding every 15 minutes to fend off hypothermia. The swim initiated at 1:50 a.m. in total darkness, presenting significant visibility challenges. She described how the fluctuating temperatures and tidal shifts tested her stamina and mental determination. Each swim presents unique hurdles, such as encountering marine wildlife during the Red Sea swim and navigating busy shipping lanes in the English Channel.

Aside from her athletic prowess, Dr. Binladen is a notable dentist and humanitarian dedicated to providing aid to refugees. In 2016, she founded the first free medical facility for dental treatments within a Syrian refugee camp in Azraq, Jordan. Her endeavors combine her passions for both sports and service to others, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact.

Dr. Binladen expressed her pride in advancing women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia, encouraging fellow women to pursue their dreams. She stated, “My advice to Saudi women is to never give up on your dream; with hard work and dedication, you can fulfill your goals.” Looking to the future, she mentioned several possibilities she is exploring, emphasizing her aspirations for continuous personal growth and inspiring others.

Her determination and multifaceted contributions highlight a significant cultural shift in the Kingdom towards supporting women in various fields, reinforcing the importance of resilience and ambition.

Dr. Mariam Binladen is a pioneering open-water swimmer from Saudi Arabia who has broken numerous barriers in her career. She has made significant achievements in her field, becoming the first Arab woman to swim across the Red Sea and the Gulf region’s first to navigate the English Channel. Additionally, Dr. Binladen is active in humanitarian efforts, particularly in assisting refugees, displaying a strong commitment to making a positive impact on society. Her story reflects the evolving landscape for women in Saudi Arabia, showcasing their growing presence in sports and leadership roles.

Dr. Mariam Binladen’s recent completion of the Khalid bin Hamad Swimming Challenge not only underscores her extraordinary athletic capabilities but also highlights her commitment to humanitarian efforts. Through her achievements, she serves as an inspiration for Saudi women, advocating for perseverance and ambition in pursuing personal and professional goals. Her endeavors exemplify the transformative changes occurring in Saudi society, particularly in the realm of women’s empowerment.

Original Source: www.arabnews.pk