The Maldives is gearing up for a major boost in its tourism infrastructure with the highly anticipated opening of the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) next year. This development marks a significant milestone for the country, which heavily relies on tourism for its economic growth.
During a panel discussion at the GM Forum hosted by Hotelier Maldives, Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer highlighted the crucial role of airport development in enhancing the Maldives’ tourism sector. He emphasized the importance of the expansion of Velana International Airport, stating that it is essential for advancing tourism in the Maldives. The project, which began during the 2013-2018 government administration and continued through the pandemic, is now on track to be fully operational next year.
“The most urgent priority for the tourism sector is the completion of Velana International Airport’s development and initiating full operations,” Zameer remarked. He also stressed the need for improved connectivity across the country by developing more domestic airports in both the northern and southern regions, thereby strengthening the links between airports and resorts.
Minister Zameer encouraged international investors to participate in these ventures, stating, “We are looking for investors who understand the Maldives’ unique challenges and its developmental needs.”
MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, who also participated in the discussion, confirmed that the new terminal will be fully operational by next year. “The new terminal will significantly improve the operational experience and support the projected increase in tourist arrivals over the next decade,” he stated.
The existing International Arrivals Terminal at VIA is currently handling far beyond its designed capacity, accommodating between 12,000 and 14,000 passengers daily during peak tourism periods, despite being built to serve only 2,700 to 3,000 passengers. The new terminal is designed to accommodate up to 7 million passengers annually, a significant improvement that will ease the congestion and provide a much smoother experience for travelers.
With the new terminal’s launch, VIA will also be better equipped to handle the growing number of international flights, solving one of the major challenges faced by the current terminal—insufficient space during peak hours.
As tourism continues to be the backbone of the Maldives’ economy, the completion of this airport expansion is expected to boost the country’s ability to welcome even more visitors. This improved infrastructure will support longer stays and higher occupancy rates at the Maldives’ renowned resorts, contributing to sustainable growth in the tourism sector.
For more information on the developments in the Maldivian hospitality industry, stay updated with Hotelier Maldives—the leading publication dedicated to the Maldives’ hotel and tourism sector.
