Dive Desk Launches PADI Maldivian Waterfront Lifeguard Specialty Course

Lifeguard trainees practicing a patient carry drill — building strength, teamwork, and confidence to respond in real emergencies.

We are excited to announce a brand-new addition to our training programs: the PADI Maldivian Waterfront Lifeguard Specialty Course!

This course is a PADI Distinctive Specialty, designed specifically for the Maldives in line with national laws and regulations. It equips students with the knowledge and practical skills to recognize, prevent, and respond to aquatic emergencies, while also providing vital CPR and First Aid training. Participants will learn both on-land and in-water rescue techniques to ensure they can work professionally and confidently as lifeguards in swimming pools, confined waters, or open ocean environments.

Why It Matters for the Maldives

With 99% of the country made up of water, the Maldives relies on safe aquatic environments for both its people and its visitors. Professionally trained lifeguards can drastically reduce drowning incidents, injuries, and fatalities while ensuring accountability and high safety standards.

For young Maldivians, this specialty opens the door to a rewarding new career path. Unlike many diving courses, it does not require prior scuba certification, making it an accessible entry point for anyone passionate about safety and the ocean. Successful certification provides assurance to employers that lifeguards meet an internationally recognized standard of training.

A Call for Safer Beaches

“It is sad to notice that most of the beaches are left unattended in this popular tourist destination. Some companies use their island security to do lifeguard jobs, but handling an aquatic rescue situation requires a whole new set of skills and experience which they don’t have. It is important to develop a system where trained lifeguards monitor, assess and attend to emergencies in the water. I hope to see young people take up lifeguarding as a career and start developing standardized safety systems and protocols across the country.”— Adam Ashraf, Owner and Managing Director of Dive Desk

Enrol Today

For course schedules or to arrange custom training dates, please reach out to us at info@divedesk.mv. Scheduled sessions are conducted in Malé and Himmafushi, and certification is awarded upon successful completion of all requirements.

Join us in making the Maldives’ waters safer for everyone — and begin your journey as a certified Maldivian Waterfront Lifeguard.