Dubai, June 9, 2025 – A tragic incident unfolded in Dubai as a young engineer from Kerala lost his life during a scuba diving session while on a family vacation. The 32-year-old man, identified as Sreeraj Nair, hailed from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, and was reportedly enjoying a leisure trip with his wife and two children when the accident occurred.
According to local media sources, the incident took place on Saturday afternoon near the Jumeirah Beach diving zone, a popular spot among tourists and water sports enthusiasts in Dubai. The dive, organized by a certified local adventure company, turned fatal when Sreeraj allegedly signaled distress underwater.
Eyewitness reports suggest that Sreeraj, who had signed up for an introductory scuba diving experience, suddenly showed signs of discomfort during the dive. Despite the presence of professional instructors, efforts to bring him to the surface quickly failed to save him. Once pulled ashore, emergency medical services attempted resuscitation, but he was pronounced dead on the scene.
The Dubai Police and coastguard authorities have confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident. Preliminary findings suggest that Sreeraj may have suffered a cardiac arrest underwater, though a detailed autopsy report is awaited.
The tragic news has sent shockwaves back home in Kerala, where friends, relatives, and former colleagues of Sreeraj have expressed deep sorrow. His elderly parents in Thiruvananthapuram have reportedly been informed, and the Indian Consulate in Dubai is extending all necessary support to the grieving family.
Sreeraj was a qualified mechanical engineer who had been working with a reputed multinational company based in Bengaluru. Known among his peers for his dedication and gentle nature, he was also passionate about adventure sports and travel. This Dubai vacation was reportedly his first international family trip after years of saving and planning.
“He was so excited to explore Dubai with his wife and kids. This was supposed to be a happy family memory, not a tragedy,” said a close friend of the family from Kerala.
The Indian expatriate community in Dubai has also expressed condolences and pledged support to the family during this time of grief. The Indian Consulate confirmed that they are coordinating with Dubai authorities to ensure the repatriation of Sreeraj’s mortal remains back to India.
This unfortunate incident has reignited concerns over the safety measures involved in tourist adventure sports, especially underwater activities like scuba diving. While Dubai maintains high standards of safety for water sports, experts stress that certain underlying health conditions may make such activities risky, especially for those with no prior diving experience.
“First-time divers are always given orientation and trained in shallow waters before a real dive,” said an instructor at a local Dubai diving school. “But sometimes hidden medical conditions like heart problems can pose sudden risks, even if the person appears perfectly fit on the surface.”
Scuba diving is generally considered a safe sport when all guidelines are strictly followed. However, health experts advise thorough medical check-ups for individuals intending to participate in such activities, especially if they have a history of heart or lung-related conditions.
The Dubai tourism department has announced that a routine review of safety protocols for all licensed diving operators will be undertaken to ensure no lapses occurred.
Back in Kerala, the wait for Sreeraj’s body continues as legal and procedural formalities are being completed in Dubai. His family, still in a state of shock, is being supported by relatives and local authorities to manage the paperwork required for the repatriation process.
The Indian Consulate has stated: “We are in close touch with both the bereaved family and the Dubai authorities to provide every possible assistance. Arrangements are being made for the swift return of the mortal remains to India, likely within the next two days.”
Once the body reaches Kerala, the last rites are expected to be held at his ancestral home in Thiruvananthapuram. Local residents, relatives, and well-wishers are likely to gather to pay their final respects.
This heart-wrenching incident serves as a somber reminder of how a joyful holiday can turn into an unforeseen tragedy. Community groups both in India and Dubai have called for better public awareness on the health precautions needed before engaging in high-risk adventure activities.
As tributes pour in on social media, friends and colleagues remember Sreeraj as a kind, hardworking professional and a loving father. His sudden passing leaves behind a young family struggling to come to terms with this irreparable loss.
For now, the focus remains on giving closure to the grieving family and ensuring the safe return of Sreeraj’s body to his homeland.
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