In a major boost to the Maldives’ tourism infrastructure, the new international passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) is on track for completion and scheduled to open on 26 July 2025, coinciding with the country’s Independence Day. The upcoming terminal is part of the government’s renewed focus on transforming the Maldives into a premier travel hub and enhancing the overall visitor experience for millions of tourists arriving in the country each year.
According to Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) CEO Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is personally leading efforts to expedite the long-awaited project, ensuring that all necessary financial and logistical resources are mobilized. Originally slated to open in October 2025, the project’s timeline has been advanced, with accelerated construction activities now underway to meet the revised inauguration date.
Speaking at a media networking session, Shareef revealed that when the current administration took office, only 54 percent of the project had been completed, despite construction having started eight years earlier. Since then, the pace of development has intensified significantly under direct presidential oversight. President Muizzu has actively monitored progress, regularly visiting the construction site, consulting with contractors, and securing uninterrupted funding for the initiative.
“The completion of this terminal is not just a construction milestone,” said Shareef. “It is a key component in the president’s strategy to drive economic growth and strengthen the tourism sector. The President regards this as a top priority, with no room for delay.”
The new terminal is designed to handle up to seven million passengers annually, representing a remarkable expansion compared to the current terminal’s capacity of 1.5 million passengers. Spanning 78,000 square metres, the modern facility will dramatically ease congestion, especially during peak periods. Earlier this year, the airport recorded 23,000 passenger movements in a single day, highlighting the pressing need for expanded capacity and upgraded facilities.
Shareef noted that MACL, contractors, and partner agencies are now working closely to meet the tight deadline. In preparation for the launch, significant groundwork is being carried out, including infrastructure enhancements, integration of essential utilities, staff training, and operational readiness assessments to ensure seamless service delivery from day one.
Once operational, the terminal will offer state-of-the-art amenities and services, including expanded check-in and immigration counters, duty-free retail outlets, premium lounges, and advanced baggage handling systems. These upgrades aim to elevate passenger experience and reinforce Velana International Airport’s position as a top-tier aviation hub in South Asia.
With the Maldives welcoming over 1.8 million tourists in 2023 and aiming for even higher numbers in the coming years, the completion of this terminal is expected to play a pivotal role in accommodating growing arrivals while ensuring the Maldives remains a preferred destination for luxury, honeymoon, and leisure travellers worldwide.
Set against the backdrop of crystal-clear lagoons and world-renowned island resorts, the new international terminal promises to provide an impressive and memorable first impression to visitors stepping into the Maldives, strengthening the country’s reputation for world-class hospitality and enhancing its competitiveness in the global tourism market.
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