A dazzling world-record fireworks display illuminated the night sky across the capital region on July 26, 2025, marking the grand opening of the new international passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA). The synchronized show, launched simultaneously from nine different locations across Malé, Hulhumalé, and Hulhulé, has officially entered the Guinness World Records as the largest choreographed multi-site fireworks display ever recorded.
The achievement was formally recognized by Guinness World Records during a celebratory event hosted by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) to welcome the first airline to operate at the new terminal. Surpassing the previous world record of five launch sites, the Maldives’ entry featured a complex coordination effort involving 32 official witnesses to ensure full compliance with international record guidelines.
The record-breaking celebration was part of a national-scale inauguration ceremony that brought together over 6,000 attendees, including President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, government officials, international dignitaries, tourism stakeholders, and aviation industry leaders. The evening unfolded with a multi-layered cultural program: a visual documentary tracing the development history of VIA, a theatrical performance showcasing Maldivian heritage, and a drone light show that visually narrated key moments in the country’s journey to independence and its aviation evolution, culminating in the historic fireworks spectacle.
The new terminal, operated by MACL, is a transformational upgrade for the Maldives’ primary international gateway. Encompassing 72,000 square meters, the terminal is designed to handle up to 7.5 million passengers annually, significantly enhancing the country’s capacity to serve growing global tourism demand.
The facility features:
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12 passenger boarding bridges
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47 international and 24 seaplane check-in counters
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An advanced baggage handling system with real-time tracking
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Streamlined immigration and customs processing with e-gates
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41 elevators, 14 escalators, and 4 travellators to facilitate efficient passenger movement
These infrastructure improvements are expected to increase operational efficiency, boost airline partnerships, and support expanded flight schedules from across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Government projections position the terminal as a key enabler in transforming the Maldives into a regional air travel hub while further strengthening the country’s dominant tourism sector, which accounts for approximately 28% of national GDP.
The terminal’s interior design subtly integrates Maldivian aesthetics, with architectural motifs inspired by the country’s marine environment and natural beauty. Wall patterns and interior décor reflect coral-inspired textures, blending functionality with national identity and cultural pride.
In his remarks, MACL CEO Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed praised the extraordinary coordination and national effort behind the project. He presented a model of the terminal to President Muizzu during the ceremony, commemorating the project’s completion. “This terminal represents a powerful symbol of what can be achieved through strong leadership, dedicated teamwork, and a shared national vision,” he stated.
From its engineering scale to the globally recognized fireworks display, the inauguration event has captured the attention of both regional media and the global travel industry. For international tourists, the new terminal offers a significantly improved arrival and departure experience that matches the premium allure of the Maldives as a leading island destination.
This world record celebration not only honored 60 years of Maldivian independence, but also sent a clear message to the global tourism and aviation communities: the Maldives is investing boldly in future-ready infrastructure to welcome the world with greater capacity, efficiency, and cultural warmth.
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