Watch: UAE divers set Guinness World Record in massive underwater cleanup

307 volunteers join ‘Beneath the Blue’ largest underwater cleanup in Abu Dhabi

Guinness World Record
Caption: A record-breaking 307 divers in Abu Dhabi completed the world’s largest multi-site underwater cleanup, removing over one tonne of marine debris.
Source: Ma\'an Abu Dhabi


ABU DHABI – Under the patronage of Sheikh Zayed bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi has set a new Guinness World Record after 307 divers took part in the ‘Beneath the Blue – Underwater Cleanup’ initiative.

The landmark effort, supervised by Sustainable Future Initiative and supported by the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, marked the largest seabed cleanup conducted across multiple locations. The mission unfolded at Al Taweelah and Al Zahiyah, drawing licensed volunteers from diverse backgrounds to support the UAE’s environmental goals.

The achievement added momentum to national efforts aimed at conserving marine ecosystems while strengthening public participation in sustainability initiatives.

‘Beneath the Blue – Underwater Cleanup’

The underwater cleanup, held on November 8, 2025, saw divers work in precise synchronisation during a 15-minute operational window. Spread across Fishermen Sea Port in Al Taweelah and The Cove in Abu Dhabi, participants successfully collected over one tonne of marine waste.

The coordinated approach underscored the effectiveness of collective action in tackling pollution below the surface.

How it was done?

Prior to the dive, volunteers attended specialist safety and environmental training sessions led by certified instructors and marine experts. These briefings ensured adherence to the highest standards, allowing the Guinness World Record attempt to proceed with strict safety and sustainability protocols.

Guiness World Record

Ma’an’s involvement through the ‘Beneath the Blue’ initiative reflects its long-standing commitment to promoting environmental responsibility and inspiring meaningful social participation. Officials from Ma’an and Sustainable Future Initiative expressed pride in earning a place in the Guinness World Records, noting that the milestone highlights what communities can accomplish when united behind a shared purpose.

The organising entities extended their thanks to all participants whose efforts transformed the underwater cleanup into a global benchmark for environmental action.