Velana International Airport Opens New Passenger Terminal

The Maldives marked its 60th Independence Day with the official opening of the new passenger terminal at Velana International Airport. This major event celebrated the completion of one of the country's most ambitious infrastructure projects to date.

The evening featured the largest drone show ever held in the Maldives, with lights and patterns honoring the nation’s identity and heritage. The celebration continued with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the skies from 19 locations around Malé.
Construction of the terminal began nine years ago and cost USD 457 million. The new terminal is designed to significantly boost the airport's capacity and bring a modern experience to travelers entering or leaving the Maldives.

Architecturally, the terminal blends practical features with strong cultural elements. Visitors are welcomed by traditional stone carvings that highlight the country's history, culture, and religion. The interior design features colors inspired by the ocean and islands, offering panoramic views of the sea and sky.

The terminal introduces 12 aerobridges, which will make boarding and arrival more convenient for passengers. Inside, there are 47 check-in counters and six self-service kiosks, aimed at reducing wait times by over 30 percent compared to the previous system.

Security and immigration processes have also been improved. Instead of screening passengers at the entrance, the new terminal follows international standards by placing these services on the second floor. With 38 immigration counters, the facility is built to manage higher volumes during busy periods.

After clearing immigration, passengers walk through an immersive tunnel into a redesigned retail space. Around 4,000 square feet have been allocated for duty-free shopping, offering a wider range of premium brands and a better shopping experience.
Luggage handling has also been upgraded. The terminal has five baggage belts that can process up to 12 aircraft at the same time. It also includes a special belt for oversized items such as surfboards. An automated baggage screening system further improves efficiency.

Initially, the terminal will handle flights operated by the national airline, Maldivian. Other airlines will begin using the new facility in stages. Velana International Airport currently serves 34 airlines, and the Maldives Airports Company Limited plans to move all operations to the new terminal by September.
With more space, faster services, and the ability to manage increased traffic, the company expects a revenue increase of up to 8 percent in the first year and up to 15 percent in the second.

The launch of this terminal is a major step forward for the Maldives, combining modern travel solutions with the spirit of the nation.