Ooredoo Drone Race 2023 Takes Flight, Crowning Champions in Maldives' Maiden Aerial Showdown

In a historic event that marked the beginning of a new era in Maldivian sports and entertainment, the Ooredoo Drone Race 2023 concluded on December 23rd, 2023, at Hulhumale’ Central Park. This pioneering drone race, organized in collaboration with Stabisys Maldives, witnessed the talents of 12 skilled pilots competing across two categories, creating a spectacle of aerial prowess.
The Sky Walker Category showcased the skills of eight pilots maneuvering through four challenging obstacles, while the Sky Elite Category upped the ante with four participants navigating nine obstacles to complete two laps in the fastest time. The event not only showcased the thrilling world of drone racing but also laid the foundation for future competitions and opportunities in the Maldives' RC community.
Hussain Niyaz, Chief Commercial Officer of Ooredoo Maldives, expressed delight at the successful execution of the first-ever drone race in the Maldives. He congratulated all the winners, emphasizing the event's success and hinting at future fantastic editions.
In the Sky Elite Category, Mohamed Alin Shafiu emerged as the champion with a remarkable time of 1:00:55, securing the first position and winning a DJI Mini 3 Pro (DJI RC). The second position was claimed by Hamza Waseem, finishing in 1:06:11 and securing an Ooredoo 5G AirFibre Device with a 3-month (1536 GB) package. Hussain Aloof Riyaz secured the third spot with a timing of 1:08:10, winning a Moolee Voucher worth MVR 2000.

The Sky Walker Category saw Ibrahim Shabil as the top performer, navigating through four challenging obstacles in an impressive time of 01:11:78. Shabil secured the championship and took home the first prize—a DJI Mini 2 SE. Asham Shareef secured the second place with a time of 01:25:94, winning an Ooredoo 5G AirFibre Device with a 3-month (750GB) package. Mifzal Ibrahim Fazeel clinched the third place, crossing the finish line in 01:27:36 and receiving a Moolee Voucher worth MVR 1000.
Ibrahim Nihad, Managing Director of Stabisys Maldives, expressed pride in the successful conclusion of the first-ever drone race in the Maldives. He extended gratitude to all participants and supporters, anticipating the growth of FPV racing in the Maldives.
Ali Naeem, Race Director of Ooredoo Drone Race, hailed the event as the inception of a new dimension in the drone hobby, fostering excitement among RC enthusiasts. He foresaw the race catalyzing a surge in thrilling contests and opening doors for diverse model aircraft activities.
Ooredoo Maldives and Stabisys Maldives reiterated their commitment to fostering the growth of drone racing in the Maldives. The success of the Ooredoo Drone Race 2023 marked the beginning of an exhilarating journey, and both entities pledged to bring more opportunities and events to the Maldivian community, elevating the excitement and engagement in RC hobbies.