On May 1, 2015, Mariam Fardous became the first Arab woman to dive deep into the Arctic Ocean, crossing the North Arctic Circle. This achievement marked the beginning of a public career that spans medicine, humanitarian aid, and space exploration. She operates across institutional boundaries, transitioning from clinical practice to the intensive training required for potential space flight.
Medical and Academic Background
Fardous holds a Bachelor of Medicine degree, having graduated from King Abdulaziz University in 2009. Her formal education includes a diploma in business administration from Missouri State University earned in 2010. She later specialized in public health, obtaining a master's degree with honors in epidemiology from the King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences in 2017.
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Influenced by stories of the Red Sea told by her father, Fardous pursued scuba diving as a serious endeavor. On April 16, 2016, she reached a milestone by becoming the first Arab woman and the third woman globally to dive at the North Pole. These underwater expeditions occurred during a period of significant social change in Saudi Arabia, where restrictive regulations regarding women’s activities, such as driving, were in effect until September 2017.
Humanitarian and Public Service
Beyond her scientific and technical pursuits, Fardous has engaged in extensive humanitarian efforts. On November 7, 2007, the Ministry of Health acknowledged her three years of service during the Hajj seasons. She has worked with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, providing medical assistance in countries including South Africa, Lebanon, and Greece. In 2015, she was appointed an ambassador for the organization African Impacts.
Path to Space
Fardous transitioned toward the aerospace sector, joining the Saudi Space Commission in 2022. On February 12, 2023, the organization announced her selection as a back-up astronaut for Axiom Mission 2. Her commitment to aerospace development continued with her appointment as a Karman Project Fellow in 2025, solidifying her status within the Saudi astronaut corps.
Fast facts
- Born: 1984, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Education: King Abdulaziz University, Missouri State University
- Field: Epidemiology
- Arctic Circle Dive: 1 May 2015
- North Pole Dive: 16 April 2016
- Axiom Mission 2 Selection: 12 February 2023
- Karman Project Fellow: 2025
Questions readers ask
What is the primary field of work for Mariam Fardous?
She is a physician and an epidemiologist.
Which space mission is she associated with?
She was selected as a back-up astronaut for Axiom Mission 2.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Ministry of Health, Ministry of Health and self-employment
- Educated at King Abdulaziz University, Missouri State University and King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences
- Worked as physician and astronaut
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