President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has described the inauguration of the newly developed Muli Airport as a key driver of economic expansion and regional progress in Meemu Atoll. Addressing the opening ceremony on Tuesday, the president framed the airport as central to his administration's broader infrastructure agenda, highlighting its potential to catalyse growth.
Positioning the airport as a strategic asset, President Muizzu underscored its role in strengthening tourism and unlocking new investment prospects in the island's lagoon area. He stressed that the facility would be instrumental in facilitating these initiatives, reinforcing long-term economic objectives. He expressed confidence that the Ministry of Tourism and Environment would act in alignment with public expectations, fulfilling commitments and advancing the atoll's development.
As efforts to stimulate economic activity intensify, the president revealed that the government is set to begin road construction and coastal protection works in Muli, with funding incorporated into next year's national budget. He confirmed that preparations for a new regional hospital building are nearing execution, with plans in place to expand essential healthcare services.
"The government remains committed to meeting the people's healthcare needs. The development [of the hospital's new building] is a crucial initiative," the president assured. "The agreement for its construction was formalised in April. Expanding essential services, including dialysis, and recruiting specialised staff are among the key priorities receiving significant attention."
Housing development remains a central focus, with the president announcing that 300 housing units are planned for Muli under a nationwide programme spanning 57 islands. President Muizzu described the initiative as a significant step toward fulfilling local aspirations, positioning it within the broader strategy to enhance living conditions.
Inter-island connectivity is also slated for improvement, with President Muizzu announcing progress on plans to link Naalaafushi and Muli, which are framed as a regional economic endeavour aimed at strengthening economic and social ties. The president expressed confidence that the project could be completed ahead of schedule, adding that land reclamation and harbour expansion in Naalaafushi would be prioritised under the upcoming budget.
The president also reaffirmed his administration's broader commitment to delivering on development pledges, ensuring progress across the country. Efforts to establish Muli Airport accelerated in 2021, when the government awarded the contract to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC).
The airport's construction required extensive land reclamation, with 40 hectares reclaimed from the southeastern side of the island, supplemented by an additional 14 hectares surrounding the runway. The facility features a 1,200-metre-long, 30-metre-wide runway, a taxiway, and an aircraft apron, alongside a modern passenger terminal, a control tower, and supporting operational infrastructure.