When people think of PADI, they often think of a global force uniting underwater explorers. But, it’s more than that – PADI is a platform that allows connections between people from all walks of life. Recently, PADI set a record in Kuwait with an Instructor Examination (IE) featuring 36 candidates, including 10 talented women. This wasn’t just a milestone, it was a testament to the bond that PADI has been able to forge among people through the shared passion for diving and teaching. Let’s take a closer look at how PADI is helping to transform the diving scene in Kuwait.

How It Started

The story of the growth of PADI in Kuwait begins with the conversion of two local dive centers into PADI operations. Dive36 Dive Center, the largest dive operator in Kuwait, has chosen to become 100% PADI. Similarly, Stingray Diver, with its dedicated crew, chose the same path. The transition encompassed not only business growth but also the establishment of a more inclusive, professional, and dedicated community of individuals.

The seeds of this change began to sprout when eight instructors from Dive36 embraced PADI in February 2023 through the Dive Center Orientation program.

Embracing Change and Setting New Standards

In May, Dive36 owner, Faisal Aldbaian, an experienced instructor himself, completed his Course Director Training Course in the Dominican Republic. Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of the transition Aldbaian shared his insights. “Marketing the instructor course was not easy. With PADI, the organization helps a lot with advertising and preparing a student to enter the IDC,” he explained.

Faisal also expressed initial apprehensions, “After cutting a long way through other organizations and being able to graduate students from beginner to pro level, changing to a new organization felt like starting from square one again.” However, PADI’s support eased this transition. “PADI’s reputation regarding the IDC courses is amazing. Students register for the IDC with minimum effort from us,” Faisal said.

The PADI Instructor Examination (IE) in Kuwait

PADI’s growth and success in Kuwait are evident in the recent record-breaking PADI Instructor Examination (IE). This IE, conducted on June 9-10, 2023, was the largest in the country with the participation of 36 candidates. It is worth highlighting the impressive number of female candidates at the IE and female IDC Staff Instructors playing a significant role in the Instructor Development Courses (IDCs). This showcases the region’s exceptional ability to cultivate a growing community of female divers, which bears testimony to the strong appetite for female instructors in the country and signals a promising trend for the future of the diving industry in Kuwait.

Reaching Out to All Divers: “Become a PADI Pro Event” in Kuwait

June 10th, 2023 was a memorable evening. On this date, five PADI Dive Centers, namely Dive36, Divers Academy, Nautilus Diving Kuwait, Kuwait Science Club Divers (who also hosted the event), and The One Dive Center, came together to organize a “Become a PADI Pro” event. The gathering was a mix of fun, shared experiences and inspiring talks by guest speakers, like PADI EMEA Instructor Development Manager Erika Hoffman and Firas Jundi. The event was attended by divers of all levels, including men, women, and adaptive divers, all united by their love for the underwater world.

At the heart of these events, you could feel a palpable sense of family, a testament to the close-knit community of divers in Kuwait. The high turnout at every event speaks volumes about the enthusiasm and dedication of the diving community and the unwavering support from PADI.

Striving for Greater Success: Testimony from a PADI Course Director

Faisal, one of the PADI Course Directors involved in this Kuwait success story, has shared some insightful thoughts about the current state and future of PADI in Kuwait. He offered inspiring advice to those considering a transition into PADI, “Today, in our opinion, as a professional diving organization, PADI is the easiest organization to work with, especially at the pro levels. PADI’s curriculum of courses supports the student and guides them to the top levels. Students tend to continue their education more frequently with PADI. After trying PADI’s online eLearning, it won’t be easy to leave [this system of education].”

PADI’s journey in Kuwait is not just about pushing boundaries, but also about building connections, fostering inclusivity, and providing a platform for everyone who has a love for diving. So, whether you’re an aspiring diver dreaming to turn your passion into a profession, or a seasoned Pro seeking new depths, join us as we continue our adventure. Dive into the PADI community, unlock new experiences, and become part of the PADI family. The underwater world is full of wonders, so dare to dive, dare to dream, and embrace the endless possibilities that await!

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