A major step forward in the continuous modernization of entry to the Maldives, the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) is scheduled to be inaugurated by December of this year, according to Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal. He made the news in his World Tourist Day speech, highlighting the terminal’s critical role in the nation’s booming travel and tourist sector.
Minister Faisal emphasized in his speech that the new passenger terminal is an essential part of the larger airport modernization project, which aims to improve the Maldives’ ability to receive tourists from across the world. The new terminal will be completely operational by the first or second quarter of next year, with operations at the new terminal anticipated to start in December.
Minister Faisal emphasized the strategic significance of the terminal’s inauguration and the necessity for the Maldives to draw in additional airlines to run flights there, mentioning that the government intends to work with the travel industry to develop focused marketing campaigns. He said that the opening of the terminal presents a fantastic chance to step up marketing initiatives, raise occupancy rates, and boost visitor spending. The state currently receives about USD 4.5 billion from the tourism industry; by 2027, the administration wants to increase that amount to USD 6 billion.
When compared to the current terminal, which serves about 1.5 million people yearly, the newly built 78,000-square-meter terminal—which can house up to 7 million passengers annually—will greatly increase the traveler capacity of Velana International Airport. In order to solve the shortcomings of the existing terminal, the new one is outfitted with cutting-edge amenities including aero boarding bridges, sophisticated luggage handling technologies, and ample space for shops, food and beverage outlets, lounges, and other services.
In order to ensure that the new terminal is operational by the end of the year, the Maldives is positioning itself to boost its tourism infrastructure. Final preparations are currently underway.
