President Mohamed Muizzu on Saturday night inaugurated the long-awaited new terminal at Velana International Airport, marking one of the largest infrastructure projects ever completed in the Maldives.
The terminal, launched during former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s administration as part of the airport expansion project, was opened in a special ceremony coinciding with the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. Hundreds of people attended the event, which featured the largest drone show and fireworks display ever held in the Maldives.
Construction of the terminal began on 22 May 2016, after the $350 million project was awarded to Saudi Arabia’s Bin Laden Group. Work was originally scheduled to finish in 2019, but by the time the government changed in late 2018, only the piling works had been completed. The following administration, under President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, resumed construction in 2019 with a revised design.
The terminal, now completed at a total cost of more than $457 million, spans 72,000 square metres and has the capacity to handle 7.2 million passengers annually. It features 12 aerobridges — a first for the Maldives — and an automated baggage handling system, also new to the country.
The terminal’s exterior showcases stone carvings symbolising the nation’s history, culture and Islamic heritage, a design addition introduced by the Solih administration. Its interiors highlight the Maldives’ natural beauty, with colours inspired by the country’s lagoons, beaches and ocean views.
Initially, the terminal will serve flights operated by the national carrier Maldivian before gradually opening to other airlines. Velana International Airport currently handles 34 aircraft, and Maldives Airports Company Ltd. (MACL) said it aims to accommodate all airlines by September.
MACL expects revenue to increase by 7–8 per cent in the first year of operations and 15 per cent the following year, driven by expanded duty-free facilities and the ability to welcome more airlines during peak hours.