Malé, Maldives – In a historic and breathtaking celebration on Saturday night, the Maldives officially opened its new world-class passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA), marking a significant milestone in the nation’s aviation and infrastructure development.

The grand inauguration was attended by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, alongside thousands of citizens and foreign dignitaries. The event featured the largest drone show ever held in the Maldives, lighting up the night sky with mesmerizing visuals that traced the story of Maldivian independence and the airport’s 60-year journey. The spectacle concluded with a vibrant display of fireworks, drawing applause from the crowd gathered at the airport grounds.

The newly unveiled terminal, replacing the original facility that opened in 1981, is designed to handle 7 million passengers annually. It houses 47 check-in counters, six self-service kiosks, 20 departure immigration counters, six boarding gates, and 12 aerobridges, making it the most modern and spacious passenger terminal in the Maldives to date.

Inspired by the Maldives’ natural seascape and traditional architecture, the terminal’s design pays homage to the country’s rich cultural heritage. The interiors echo elements of the ocean and shoreline, while also incorporating traditional hirigaa (limestone) carvings, reflecting Islamic art and national identity.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Muizzu hailed the terminal as a symbol of national progress and pride. “This terminal embodies not only our growth in the aviation sector but also our commitment to preserving the identity and values of the Maldives,” he said.

The new terminal is seen as a critical upgrade to meet the increasing demand of the tourism sector, while offering a significantly enhanced travel experience for both locals and international visitors. It is expected to position VIA as a leading transit hub in the region and reinforce the Maldives' reputation as a premium global destination.