Eid Holiday Tragedy: Indian Expat Dies During Scuba Diving Session at Dubai's Jumeirah Beach

A festive Eid Al Adha holiday turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy for an Indian family in Dubai when a 29-year-old expatriate died during a beginner's scuba diving session off the iconic Jumeirah Beach on Friday. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the community, has cast a spotlight on the safety protocols of recreational water sports in the emirate.

Eid Holiday Tragedy: Indian Expat Dies During Scuba Diving Session at Dubai's Jumeirah Beach

The deceased has been identified as Issac Paul Olakkengil, a 29-year-old civil engineer from Kerala, India, who was based in the UAE. What was supposed to be a memorable holiday experience with his wife, Reshma, and younger brother, Ivin, ended in disaster. The family had reportedly signed up for an introductory scuba diving course at a designated training area.

According to a relative assisting the family with the legal formalities, the tragic event unfolded during the training session. "It seems they were getting trained for scuba diving, and apparently, he [Issac] couldn't breathe properly and moved away from the pack," Pyarilos Davis, a relative, told local media.

Panic ensued underwater. Olakkengil was quickly pulled from the water by instructors and emergency responders who were alerted to the scene. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but tragically, could not be revived. Family members stated that he had suffered a cardiac arrest.

The trauma for the family was cruelly compounded when Olakkengil's brother, Ivin, who was also part of the diving group, collapsed upon arriving at the hospital. He is currently under observation but has been declared to be out of danger. As of Saturday evening, he had not yet been informed of his older brother's passing, a testament to the profound bond the two siblings shared. Friends expressed their deep concern about how to break the devastating news to him.

Dubai Police have launched a full investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances that led to the death. As part of their inquiry, authorities have seized the scuba diving equipment used during the session for examination. The family is cooperating with the investigation while simultaneously navigating the painful process of repatriating Olakkengil's body to India.

This is not the first time a recreational water activity has ended in tragedy in Dubai. Past incidents have raised questions about the enforcement of safety standards and the vetting of operators offering such experiences. In the wake of this latest incident, experts are once again urging caution and due diligence.

Bimbo Calitis, a Filipino diving instructor and CEO of a Jumeirah-based swim school, spoke to the Khaleej Times, advising prospective divers to thoroughly check the credentials and background of any diving school. He stressed the importance of physical fitness, stating, "Learners must also first ensure they are physically fit. There are many things that may happen under the water and if there are medical emergencies, it's just you and the instructor." He warned against opting for cheap deals or uncertified freelance instructors, emphasizing that safety should always be the paramount concern.

"If you have underlying conditions, ask your doctor first and go to only licensed and credible diving schools," Calitis added, highlighting a critical step that is often overlooked in the excitement of trying a new adventure sport.

The Indian Consulate in Dubai, which regularly assists its nationals in times of crisis, has established procedures for such unfortunate events. While no official statement specific to this case has been released, the consulate's website provides detailed guidance on the repatriation of mortal remains and has previously issued advisories warning against fraudulent agents who exploit grieving families. The consulate works with community associations to provide support services to families at no cost. The Olakkengil family is currently being assisted by relatives and community members through this difficult process.

The incident serves as a grim reminder of the inherent risks associated with adventure sports, even in a city renowned for its world-class tourism infrastructure. As the investigation proceeds, the focus will likely be on the operational procedures of the diving center, the instructor-to-student ratio, and the pre-dive safety briefing and health checks provided to the participants.

For now, a family is left to mourn the loss of a young man in the prime of his life, his death a somber note in the middle of what should have been a period of celebration. The close-knit Indian expatriate community in Dubai has been deeply saddened by the news, with many offering condolences and support to the bereaved family. The tragedy at Jumeirah Beach is a stark reminder that behind the glistening facade of holiday fun, the utmost priority must always be safety and preparedness.