Before October 2025, Velana International Airport (VIA), the primary international gateway to the Maldives, is scheduled to undergo a revolutionary overhaul with the opening of its new terminal. This was declared by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on February 6th, when parliament opened. For the millions of tourists who visit the Maldives each year, the eagerly awaited breakthrough has the potential to completely transform the tourism experience. The state-of-the-art terminal, which can handle up to 7 million people annually, will improve the entire passenger experience and ease traffic at one of the busiest airports in the area.
VIA’s expansion is essential because the airport has been running over capacity for a while. In order to keep the Maldives a top vacation destination, the new terminal will bring much-needed respite by facilitating easier arrivals and departures. The country’s connectivity to international markets will be further strengthened by this improvement, guaranteeing smooth travel experiences for visitors from all over the world.
With the construction of Hanimaadhoo International Airport and Addu Gan Airport, the Maldives is expanding its aviation network in addition to VIA. With simpler inter-island transit alternatives for both visitors and residents, the continuing developments seek to further increase the Maldives’ accessibility.
The new terminal at Velana International Airport is anticipated to be finished by July, according to a statement released on 9th February 2025 by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL).
Construction is going according to plan, according to MACL Deputy Chief Officer Ibrahim Ali Habeeb at the presentation. Early check-in and early baggage storage will be available at the new terminal.
Among the presentation’s major updates were:
- The new terminal’s immigration services area will be 280 times bigger than the current one
- Aero bridges are already in place, and testing is expected to start the following month
- Over half of the interior renovations are finished
- The exterior is almost finished
The government’s original aim was to open the new terminal prior to the start of the previous year’s travel season. However, the schedule was changed in response to suggestions made by the Airline Operators Committee (AOC).
The Maldives is well-positioned to provide tourists with a smooth and opulent experience as it makes investments to update its aviation infrastructure, thereby securing its standing as a premier international tourism destination. The Maldives is prepared to welcome even more tourists to its immaculate islands, lively culture, and first-rate hospitality with the opening of the new VIA terminal and the ongoing development of local airports.
