The History of Diving: From Pearl Diving to the Modern Sport
A journey through the history of diving, from the ancient profession of pearl fishing to the global sport practiced by millions.
Diving is older than you think. Humans have been diving underwater for thousands of years, and each era has added a dimension to this sport.
Pearl diving in the Arabian Gulf
Before the discovery of oil, diving was the main occupation on the Arabian Gulf coast. Divers with no equipment other than their compressed noses and trained fingers would reach depths of 20 meters or more to collect shellfish.
The beginning of modern diving
In the 1950s, compressed and regulated air cylinders were developed, opening the door for the average diver to explore the depths for the first time in history.
Free diving as an organized sport
At the end of the twentieth century, organizations began to appear that legalized freediving, issued certificates and levels, and it became an official international competition sport.
Diving in the Arab World
Arabs have a long history with the sea. Pearl fishermen in the Gulf and fishermen in the Red Sea lived with the sea and for the sea. Reviving this sport today is a continuation of this legacy.
Every dive under water is a link in a chain that began thousands of years ago. You are not the first to discover this beauty.