The Maldives is preparing to usher in a new era of tourism with the grand opening of the new passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA), a key development by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL). Visit Maldives Corporation has stated that it stands in support of this key development.
The new terminal is scheduled to open tonight on 26 July 2025, to coincide with the 60th anniversary of Maldives’ independence. The grand opening ceremony will be graced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu as the Chief Guest, with approximately 6,000 invitees in attendance.
The celebration will feature the official inauguration of the new VIA Passenger Terminal, complemented by spectacular highlights including a drone and light show, culminating in a fireworks display. To ensure widespread public participation, eight dedicated viewing platforms equipped with lights and a stage will be set up across Malé, Hulhumalé, Villimalé, and Addu Feydhoo, offering live broadcasts of the event, followed by cultural performances and food.
This 72,000 square meter terminal, designed to handle 7.5 million passengers annually, is a pivotal development for Maldivian tourism. Key features include 12 passenger boarding bridges, 47 traditional and 24 dedicated seaplane check-in counters, and an advanced baggage handling system with real-time tracking. Enhanced immigration facilities, including e-gates, along with 41 elevators, 14 escalators, and 4 travellators, ensure a seamless and efficient passenger flow. The terminal's design thoughtfully integrates local aesthetics, with wall patterns reflecting the natural beauty of the Maldives.
According to Visit Maldives Corporation, the new terminal at VIA plays a significant roles in supporting the corporation’s strategic vision for growth and diversification in the tourism sector. It is set to facilitate expansion into key segments such as multi-generational travel, MICE tourism, adventure experiences, and wellness tourism in the coming years. With its enhanced capacity and seamless service capabilities, the terminal will effectively accommodate the anticipated increase in visitor arrivals, the corporation said.
The Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation, Ibrahim Shiuree stated that the inauguration of the new passenger terminal at VIA marks a pivotal moment for Maldivian tourism. This state-of-the-art facility significantly enhances the traveller experience and directly supports the Maldives’ strategic goals of diversifying tourism offerings and reaching new markets, he noted. He expressed confidence that the facility will elevate the Maldives’ position as a premier global destination.