The completion of development works at Hanimaadhoo International Airport is expected to mark a turning point in the Maldives’ efforts to decentralise tourism and stimulate economic growth across its northern atolls, according to former President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan.
In an interview with PSM News, President Waheed described the upgraded airport infrastructure as a critical catalyst for regional transformation. He stated that the operational readiness of the upgraded facility is expected to reduce travel time and lower costs for tourists visiting the northern atolls, noting that improved logistics are likely to increase international arrivals to resorts and guesthouses in the area.
Hanimaadhoo has operated as an international airport since 2012, but its limited infrastructure has long prevented it from offering the full range of services expected of a global gateway. The current expansion project addresses these constraints through the construction of a new terminal built to international standards and the extension of the runway.
With these upgrades, the airport will be equipped to handle larger commercial aircraft, including Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 models. The expanded apron will accommodate nine aircraft simultaneously, three Airbus and six ATR, reflecting a significant boost in operational capacity.
The new terminal spans 10,380 square metres and is designed to serve up to 1.3 million passengers annually. This scale of infrastructure aligns with the government’s broader ambition to promote tourism in the north and strengthen regional connectivity.
President Waheed noted that the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has signalled its intent to prioritise tourism development in tandem with the airport’s expansion. He added that efforts are underway to simplify transportation and improve travel within the region.
He cautioned, however, that the anticipated rise in demand must be matched by a corresponding increase in hospitality infrastructure. “As the number of tourists visiting the northern atolls increases, it is imperative to commensurately increase the number of resorts and guesthouses in the area,” he said.
To meet this requirement, President Waheed urged both the central government and local councils to introduce investment incentives and relief measures. “This area needs to have more than 3,000 beds within a range of less than 40 minutes from the airport,” he said. “The local communities and councils must undertake necessary measures to stimulate and encourage tourism. It is critically important for councils to offer incentives, provide necessary relief, and extend assistance to investors targeting tourism development.”