By After years of anticipation, the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) is finally set to open, marking a significant leap forward for the Maldives’ tourism industry. Planned to open on the 60th Independence Day, July 26th, the terminal promises to transform the country’s aviation capacity and unlock new opportunities for growth.
The existing international terminal currently handles around 1.5 million passengers annually. However, the Maldives receives over 2 million tourists each year—far exceeding the terminal’s intended capacity. This has long posed a challenge to both efficiency and growth, limiting the country’s ability to welcome even more visitors.
The new terminal, in development for the past eight years, is now ready to solve that problem. Designed to serve up to 7 million passengers annually, it will dramatically increase VIA’s capacity and streamline the arrival and departure experience for tourists.
Government officials have given high priority to fast-track the completion of the terminal, with senior figures highlighting its importance to the national economy. “This new terminal is not just an infrastructure project—it’s a gateway to expanding our tourism industry and strengthening the country’s economic future,” said a senior tourism official.
The upgraded facility includes modern check-in areas, advanced baggage handling systems, spacious lounges, and enhanced customs and immigration services. These features are expected to significantly reduce congestion and improve the overall experience for international visitors.
More importantly, with this expansion, the Maldives can now aim to increase airline connectivity and flight frequency, allowing for more tourists to access the island nation with ease. It also supports the government’s broader tourism strategy, which includes developing resorts in new atolls and diversifying tourism offerings.
As the Maldives prepares to inaugurate this major project next month, the opening of the new terminal is seen as a critical step in removing barriers to growth and reaffirming the country’s position as one of the world’s most desirable travel destinations.