Qatar’s diving scene goes deep with purpose, community spirit

Once a niche sport, scuba diving in Qatar is now surging with energy, inclusivity, and environmental purpose, according to veteran PADI instructor Meech del Carmen.Speaking to *Gulf Times, she said that the country’s diving scene has undergone a sea change in recent years, evolving into a diverse, welcoming community of ocean lovers united by a shared passion for nature and sustainability."Over the years, the diving scene in Qatar has become more inclusive, connected, and purpose-driven,” Del Carmen said."What used to be a small, tight-knit group has blossomed into a diverse and welcoming community,” she added. "People are no longer diving just for leisure, they’re diving with intention and environmental consciousness.”According to Del Carmen, this rising tide of interest is not just among seasoned divers.Curious first-timers, families, women, and visitors are now exploring Qatar’s rich and accessible marine ecosystems, many seeing the underwater world as both a healing escape and a call to action."Diving is more than a hobby,” Del Carmen said. "It’s healing, grounding, and therapeutic. In today’s fast-paced life, people crave deeper connections – with nature, themselves, and like-minded communities. Diving offers that sanctuary.”"Once you’ve felt the calm and wonder beneath the surface, it’s hard not to share that joy,” she stressed. "That’s how we continue to pass the scuba diving happiness.”However, she pointed out that marine debris and coral stress, among other challenges, threaten Qatar’s underwater ecosystems.Del Carmen, who has logged hundreds of dives in the region, believes divers have a front-row seat to these challenges and a responsibility to act."Once you’ve seen a coral wrapped in fishing line or a turtle swimming beside plastic waste, you carry that image with you,” she said. "That creates a deep sense of responsibility."Qatar’s marine ecosystems may be delicate, but they are not beyond saving especially if we unite with awareness, compassion, and consistent action,” she said.That sense of responsibility came to life on July 19, when del Carmen, dive master Margaux De Pauw, and 17 certified female divers led a team of more than 50 participants in an underwater and shoreline cleanup drive at Sealine Mesaieed.Held as part of PADI Women’s Dive Day 2025, the initiative removed more than 40kg of waste, much of it difficult-to-recycle debris.The event drew support from local dive centres, environmental volunteers, and members of the broader community."Sustainability was our priority from start to finish,” Del Carmen said."We used reusable bottles, reduced single-use plastics, and made it a true community effort,” she continued. "What moved me most was how many women – certified divers and surface supporters alike – came together.”"It wasn’t just about cleaning the ocean, it was about building a stronger, values-led community,” Del Carmen said.Del Carmen believes that every dive can be a cleanup dive and urges divers to adopt simple but effective habits: mastering buoyancy control, avoiding disturbing the seabed, not touching marine life, and supporting eco-conscious dive operations."The ocean gives us so much peace, clarity, and connection,” she said. "The least we can do is protect it in return. Take only memories, leave only happy bubbles.”