Registration for Dhiraagu Male' Open 2026 closes this month

Swim Maldives has reminded that the registration deadline for the “Dhiraagu Male' Open 2026” swimming competition expires at the end of this month.

The tournament is scheduled to be held on August 21 and 22.

The deadline for registration is this month’s end.

This year's competition will feature the 1km, 500m, 250m, and the newly introduced 500m team relay.

In addition to the race categories, Swim Maldives has published the full race schedule and route details for the event. Races will begin early morning at Rasfannu, with age-group heats for juniors and seniors across all distances. The 500m races and relays will take place on Friday, while the 1km and 250m events will be held on Saturday. Age groups range from under nine to 50 and above, with dedicated heats for fins categories and senior swimmers. Spectators will be able to follow the race from the North seawall of Male', offering close-up views throughout the course.

Swim Maldives said the main objective of the tournament is to promote open-water swimming in the Maldives and increase public interest in the sport. It is a growing concern that today's youth and children are growing up very unfamiliar with the ocean, and not learning how to swim whilst living in a mostly-sea country like the Maldives. At the same time, the competition aims to raise public awareness on the protection of the Maldives’ seas.

In addition, the main sponsor of the tournament, Dhiraagu, said the company supports such activities to promote a healthy lifestyle and strengthen social relationships.

Last year, 350 swimmers from across the country participated in the Male' Open. More than 340 swimmers, ranging in age from five to 65, completed the race.

Applications can now be submitted through the Swim Maldives website.