While tourism, hospitality and the entire hospitality industry are the biggest contributors to the Maldives’ economy, Velana International Airport (VIA) is the backbone that supports all these industries, stated Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed.

The Minister made these remarks while delivering a speech at the ceremony held on Thursday for the opening of the new terminal’s Koveli Lounge at VIA.

In this regard, the Minister said that the airport’s development, beautification, and the progress coming to the airport is a very significant effort made for the Maldives’ economy and to maintain the Maldives’ image positively.

“Now that this terminal of this airport has been opened, the services provided here, in a country with such a premium tourist product, should be services that you provide with great care and enthusiasm,” the Minister said.

The Koveli Lounge of Velana International Airport’s (VIA) new terminal was officially opened on Thursday.

At a special ceremony held at VIA, the lounge was inaugurated by the Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed.

Minister was also accompanied by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL)’s CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, Deputy Managing Directors Mohamed Lam’aan and Mujthaba Latheef, and the company’s senior management.

VIA’s new terminal was opened on July 26, 2025. The new terminal, designed with artistic elements of traditional Maldivian crafts that symbolize the country’s history, culture, and religious traditions, incorporates the scenic beauty of the Maldives’ beloved ocean views and the colors and beauty of the natural islands.

The new terminal has 47 check-in counters, 6 self-service counters, 20 departure immigration counters, 6 passenger boarding gates, and 12 aero bridges. This terminal has been developed to serve up to 7 million people per year.

Velana International Airport’s previous terminal was opened in 1981.