President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that land reclamation in Milandhoo, Shaviyani atoll, will be completed within eight months, with the island’s new airport set to open in 30 months.
The announcement was made during his visit to the island, where he outlined key infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and economic resilience.
“The practical work of dredging will be completed within a maximum of eight months from today,” the President said. “And within 30 months from today, the airport will be completed and operational.”
He emphasized the strategic importance of the airport for Milandhoo, citing transportation challenges and the need for enhanced access. The project includes relocating the existing port to accommodate the airport and upgrading harbour facilities to support future growth.
ށ. މިލަންދޫ އެއަރޕޯޓް ތަރައްޤީ ކުރުމުގެ އެއްބަސްވުމުގައި ސޮއިކުރުމާއި އެއާޕޯޓަށް ބޭނުންވާ ބިން ހިއްކުމުގެ ޢަމަލީ މަސައްކަތް ފެށުން#RayyithunGaathah #ShaviyaniAtollVisit pic.twitter.com/5IF5g2yPib
— The President's Office (@presidencymv) October 15, 2025
The 40-hectare land reclamation contract was signed during the visit, marking the start of one of Muizzu’s flagship pledges. The President also launched several other development initiatives, including housing units, roadworks, and public service facilities.
According to the President’s Office, the airport project is part of a comprehensive plan to strengthen infrastructure and service delivery in North Miladhunmadulu atoll. The government also plans to establish a second Public Works Unit in Milandhoo and introduce WAMCO and X-ray services by early 2026.