President Muizzu credits preceding governments for progress on new VIA terminal

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has acknowledged the contributions of former Presidents Abdulla Yameen and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to the construction of the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA), officially inaugurated on Saturday.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Muizzu said the USD 457 million (MVR 7 billion) project began under Yameen’s administration in 2016 with further development through Solih’s tenure.

“This work started during the administration of President Yameen and was further carried forward during the administration of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih,” President Muizzu said.

He added that the almost 10 year long project had involved the hard work of many people and two governments.

MACL CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed stated that only 30 percent of the terminal had been completed when the current government took office. He said the remaining 70 percent was finished in the past 1.5 years.

President Muizzu also thanked the Saudi Fund, Kuwait Fund, Abu Dhabi Fund and OPEC Fund for their financial assistance in completing the project, one of the largest infrastructure developments in Maldives.

The new terminal was opened with a record-setting drone show and fireworks display across 19 locations in Male', showcasing Maldivian culture, heritage and independence.

The terminal features stone carvings symbolizing the country’s Islamic and cultural history and panoramic views of the ocean and islands. Interior design reflects the colors of Maldivian sea and landscape.

MACL expects an initial revenue increase of 7-8 percent in the first year and 15 percent the following year, driven by expanded duty-free offerings and increased capacity during peak flight hours.