Qatar’s national airline, Qatar Airways, has commenced operations from Terminal 1 of Velana International Airport (VIA), strengthening air connectivity to the Maldives and enhancing the overall travel experience for international guests. The launch was marked with a special ceremony held at the airport to celebrate the airline’s transition to the new terminal, reflecting the growing importance of the Maldives as a premium global tourism and business destination.
The ceremony was graced by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdullah Khaleel, as the chief guest. Also in attendance were Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) CEO and Managing Director, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, Qatar Airways Network Station’s Vice President, Paul Lucian, senior officials from Qatar Airways, and managers and officials from MACL. Their participation underscored the strong partnership between the Maldives and Qatar, and the shared commitment to providing world-class services to travelers visiting the island nation’s renowned resorts and hotels.
As part of the celebrations, Qatar Airways’ check-in counters at Terminal 1 were officially opened, symbolizing the start of a new chapter in the airline’s operations at VIA. To commemorate the occasion, special gifts were presented to the 162 departing passengers on the first flight handled through the new terminal, creating a memorable start to their journey. On arrival, the 222 passengers on the inaugural Qatar Airways flight into Terminal 1 were warmly welcomed with traditional Maldivian cultural performances, offering an immediate taste of the country’s rich heritage and hospitality that continues into their stays at the Maldives’ luxury resorts and guesthouses.
Qatar Airways has been serving the Maldives since 18 December 2001, consistently playing a key role in bringing visitors from around the world to experience the country’s pristine beaches, high-end resorts, and vibrant marine life. Over the years, the airline’s global network, centered around Doha as an international hub, has provided convenient one-stop connections from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Americas to the Maldives. Its transition to Terminal 1 is expected to further streamline passenger handling, improve comfort, and support the growing demand from leisure and business travelers seeking premium stays at Maldivian resorts, spa retreats, and private island properties.
With the addition of Qatar Airways, a total of 37 airlines have now commenced operations from Terminal 1 at Velana International Airport. This expanding portfolio of international carriers reinforces the Maldives’ position as a highly accessible destination for global travelers. For resort operators and tourism stakeholders, enhanced connectivity through carriers such as Qatar Airways is a vital enabler for year-round occupancy, diversified source markets, and elevated guest experiences. As the Maldives continues to invest in airport infrastructure and service quality, partnerships with leading airlines will remain central to supporting sustainable tourism growth and ensuring that visitors enjoy a seamless journey from boarding their flights to relaxing at their chosen resorts across the archipelago.
advertisment
advertisment
