Island Aviation Services Ltd (IASL) has announced a new call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the development of an expanded terminal at Maafaru International Airport, offering an attractive opportunity for investors and developers in aviation infrastructure. This strategic project marks a critical step in strengthening air connectivity to the northern Maldives and enhancing the travel experience for international visitors, particularly those heading to the region’s world-renowned luxury resorts.
Located in Noonu Atoll, Maafaru International Airport serves as a gateway to several high-end destinations in Noonu, Raa, Baa, and Lhaviyani atolls. Since opening in December 2019 with assistance from the Abu Dhabi Fund, the airport has grown in prominence, especially after being designated an international airport in July 2020. It is currently equipped to handle aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, and following ongoing upgrades, it will soon accommodate wide-body jets including the Boeing 777.
To meet rising passenger demand, particularly from private jets and VIP travellers, the proposed expansion includes a two-storey, 900-square-metre terminal featuring premium lounges and service facilities. This will significantly improve capacity and comfort, aligning the airport’s services with the needs of discerning travellers visiting luxury island resorts.
This is the third time IASL has opened the project for bidding, following previous calls in 2021 and early 2023. The project will be carried out under a contractor-financing model, and interested parties, both local and international are invited to submit creative and viable financial proposals. These may include public-private partnerships, lease-purchase frameworks, or other structured financing arrangements that support sustainable development.
The selected developer will be tasked with integrating the new terminal with existing infrastructure, ensuring compliance with national aviation standards, and delivering all necessary utilities for a fully operational facility. EOIs must be submitted by 17 April 2025 at 23:59 Maldives time via email to [email protected], with copies to [email protected] and [email protected], under the subject “NMF Terminal Extension – (L4-BID NO 06-2025).”, with shortlisted candidates expected to deliver full proposals by 5 May 2025. The project award and contract finalisation are anticipated by the end of May, with mobilization scheduled to begin in June 2025.
This expansion complements the broader second phase of the airport’s development, for which the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) was awarded a contract worth US$27.1 million. That phase includes extending the runway, reinforcing coastal protection, and upgrading taxiways, initiatives that will collectively elevate Maafaru’s capacity and regional status.
As tourism continues to evolve in the Maldives, the Maafaru terminal extension represents a tangible opportunity for stakeholders in aviation, infrastructure, and hospitality to contribute to the growth of northern gateway access and further enrich the travel experience in the Maldives.
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