Search Continues for Missing Diver in Jeddah’s North Obhur

A large-scale search-and-rescue operation is ongoing in Jeddah’s North Obhur following the disappearance of two Saudi divers during a recreational trip. The incident began on August 3, when Wissam Al-Zahrani and Fahad Arafat set out from a resort for an afternoon dive.

When the pair failed to return after approximately eight hours, a missing persons report was filed with the Jeddah Coastal Guard. Rescue teams and volunteer divers began searching the following morning. On August 5, Arafat’s body was recovered with injuries consistent with a possible shark attack.

Efforts to locate Al-Zahrani have continued without pause, according to a report in Arab News. On August 9, search teams recovered part of a torn diving suit, along with goggles and an air cylinder, but the remainder of the equipment and Al-Zahrani’s body remain missing.

Authorities have not confirmed the exact cause of the tragedy, but shark activity in the area is being considered a potential factor. Both missing men were experienced divers, with Al-Zahrani reportedly working as a professional instructor from a family of diving professionals.

The search is being coordinated by the Jeddah Coastal Guard with support from local diving volunteers.