JEDDAH: Inspired by mythical sea creatures, a diving center in Jeddah is offering a first-of-its-kind mermaid diving course for those looking to splash around in cool waters during the summer.
Scuba Schools International at Al-Haddad Scuba in the coastal city offers a whimsical yet invigorating experience for those looking for an aquatic adventure.
All over the world, mermaids represent beauty, danger, transformation, duality and feminine power. Today, they continue to inspire literature, film, fashion and even marine conservation efforts.
Ali Ayoub, Al-Haddad Scuba, certified mermaid diver
Arab News spoke to Corinna Davids, an Austrian diving and swimming instructor known for her pioneering approach to mermaid diving. She developed the SSI Mermaid Program after years of expertise in freediving and swimming.
Davids became a swimming and diving instructor at SSI when she was 18 and has since revolutionized the diving industry, making waves with her innovative technology and passion for the ocean.
HIGHLIGHT
• In April, Corinna Davids held the first mermaid diving course for instructors in Saudi Arabia.
• The course includes extensive theory sessions, training in water and evaluation of pedagogical skills.
Mermaid diving, she explained, is an art form that combines the dolphin kick technique used in swimming with an exaggerated, aesthetically pleasing movement. 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 Wafaa Al-Masry said the mermaid diving course was “a fun and unique experience.” (Included)
Davids says that to become a mermaid you just need basic water confidence. “The program is easily accessible and to become a mermaid instructor one has to complete additional steps after becoming a mermaid,” she added.
The mermaid diving experience is incomplete without the mermaid costume. Davids recommends using high-quality monofins, such as the Mahina Monofin, which provide efficiency and aesthetic appeal. The 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 can teach mermaid diving to students of all levels. The course includes extensive theory sessions, training in water and evaluations of pedagogical ability.
Initiatives such as the Vision 2030 plan aim to diversify the economy and promote tourism, which includes the development of new leisure activities such as mermaid diving.
Ali AyoubAl-Haddad Scuba, certified mermaid diver
“The course received an overwhelmingly positive response from the trainees, who showed significant improvement throughout the programme,” she said.
The newly certified instructors will be able to teach the mermaid diving program throughout Saudi Arabia.
“The primary purpose of conducting this course in Saudi Arabia was to introduce a new, fun program that would appeal to both children and adults. Mermaid diving offers an exciting experience for those who may be hesitant to try scuba diving or freediving,” said Davids.
Corinna Davids, a respected diving and swimming instructor known for her pioneering approach to mermaid diving. (Instagram/corinna.flowrebels)
Four participants from different backgrounds took part in the course, including a swimming instructor and lifeguard, two diving instructors (one of whom is a doctor) and a freediving instructor who is also an air traffic controller.
Ali Ayoub, a certified mermaid diver and diving instructor from Al-Haddad Scuba, told Arab News: “Saudi Arabia has undergone significant social and cultural changes, with more emphasis on leisure and recreational activities.
“Initiatives such as the Vision 2030 plan aim to diversify the economy and promote tourism, which includes the development of new leisure activities such as mermaid diving.”
Ayoub added that mermaid diving requires strong swimming skills and good physical fitness. “Practice swimming regularly, work on your breathing techniques and consider taking free diving courses to improve your underwater endurance,” he advised.
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 individuals can help. Their captivating presence can make learning about these issues more engaging and memorable. “
Wafaa Al-Masry, 22, a Saudi model, took the mermaid diving course under the guidance of coach Ayoub. She told Arab News: “It was a fun and unique experience. At first I thought it would be difficult, but with the training and the coach's guidance, I found it easy and fun.”
She said breathing techniques, relaxation and mastering the fin method were new skills she tackled in different ways during the mermaid course. “The trainer was excellent at providing instructions, making the experience fun and delivering valuable information,” she added.
Davids has written a comprehensive guide for those interested in discovering the magic of mermaid diving in Saudi Arabia. The guide provides all the necessary information for new mermaids to be safe, make informed decisions and choose the right equipment.
Having trained more than 3,000 divers over the past five years, Al-Haddad Scuba specializes in unique activities such as snorkeling, deep diving and night diving, providing immersive experiences of the vibrant underwater world alongside a community of fellow marine enthusiasts.
