Saudi’s first female paraglider competes in Vagamon, promises to return

Saudi native Nehal Alhilal took her first paragliding flight a few years ago over her country’s beautiful Jabal Sawda mountains. The experience was so exhilarating that paragliding became an extension of her personality.

The 34-year-old, the first practising female paraglider from Saudi Arabia, recently participated in the world’s first-ever Top Landing Accuracy competition, approved by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), as part of the International Paragliding Festival in Vagamon, Kerala.

It was Nehal’s first visit to India and her first time competing in the Top Landing Accuracy discipline. She was full of praise for the organisers, staff, and volunteers: “Everything here is perfect.”

“I have flown over sand dunes, snow, and many breathtaking landscapes across different countries in my pursuit of paragliding. The best experience was, of course, in my own country. The sport is an extension of my personality—I love adventure, freedom, and discovering new experiences,” she shared.

Nehal considers herself fortunate to have a supportive family. “Especially my dad,” she exclaimed. “I’m also thankful to all Saudis and our Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, who gave us the freedom to pursue sports and practice them both within and outside Saudi Arabia.”

Even in her career as a lecturer in the Department of Educational Sciences in Saudi Arabia, she finds her paragliding skills useful. “This sport teaches patience, self-control, the ability to be a good student, and making the right decisions at the right time. These lessons have greatly influenced my teaching methods.”

Her aspirations now include promoting the sport, leading a Saudi women’s paragliding team, and competing in more international events. “I also hope to obtain an approved licence as the first Saudi female tandem pilot,” she added.

Nehal, who is now heading to Delhi for another event, regretted not having enough time to explore Vagamon. “This won’t be my last event here—I hope to return in the coming years,” she said.