President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced a comprehensive plan to expand Maafaru International Airport, including the development of a new international-standard terminal and the construction of a hotel to accommodate transient tourists. The announcement, delivered during his meeting with residents of Maafaru as part of a 13-island tour of Noonu Atoll, reaffirms the government's commitment to advancing infrastructure in one of the Maldives' most rapidly developing tourism regions.
President Muizzu outlined the need to elevate the airport's operational capacity, stating that although the runway is fully developed, additional facilities are essential to meet international benchmarks and accommodate rising visitor numbers. The upgraded services were inaugurated on 8 July, following the completion of development works focused on the runway. Commercial operations began on 1 December 2019, marking the conclusion of the airport's initial development phase.
"The most crucial aspect is to advance the terminal development to an appropriate standard. Given the substantial number of resorts and available beds within this atoll, with more currently under development, there is indeed considerable potential," the president stated. "Consequently, other essential facilities are required at the airport, such as a hotel for tourists requiring temporary accommodation between arrival and departure; these necessities are included in our strategic plan."
Noonu Atoll's Tourism Profile Underscores Strategic Value of Airport Expansion
The president's remarks reflect Noonu Atoll's emergence as a prominent node in the national tourism landscape. With eight resorts and fourteen guesthouses offering high-end services, demand for reliable air connectivity continues to increase. Maafaru International Airport, by virtue of its geographic and logistical relevance, is positioned to play a central role in sustaining this growth. The administration's goal, as articulated by the president, is to establish a "comprehensive and complete airport" capable of supporting long-term development.
This vision builds upon an existing foundation established during the airport's first phase of development, finalised in 2019. That phase included the construction of a 2,200-metre runway, a passenger terminal, and a VIP lounge, alongside supporting infrastructure such as a fire and rescue Station, control tower, and passenger jetty. The airport's initial construction began on 23 January 2018. Current expansion efforts aim to strengthen this framework, with a focus on terminal capacity and short-term accommodation tailored to the needs of transient travellers, key components in unlocking the atoll’s full tourism potential.
Health Centre Promised, Classroom Expansion Planned
Addressing residents, President Muizzu announced that road construction initiatives across several islands, including Maafaru, are scheduled to commence later this year. He identified healthcare as a chief concern, pledging the establishment of a modern health centre tailored to local needs.
Responding to requests from the council and school administration, he confirmed plans to construct four new classrooms. He also referenced delays in the futsal field project and reaffirmed the administration's efforts to expand sports infrastructure across the island.
Airport Works and Tourism Infrastructure Planned
The president reported that components of the Maafaru International Airport development have been completed, with preparations now underway to expand the terminal. "Considering the comprehensive needs for the airport, including the terminal, we are proceeding with the vision of expanding it," he said. "I wish to convey that the essential work, encompassing the terminal, will be carried out at the airport without undue delay."
He noted that Noonu Atoll’s increasing role in national tourism underscores the need for a city hotel, which has been included in the government's strategic development plans.
Housing Project Approved Amid Broad Development Push
Maafaru has been designated for a new housing initiative, to be financed under next year's national budget. President Muizzu assured residents that numerous community-requested projects have been formally approved and will proceed as planned.
President Meets Local Council to Discuss Infrastructure Needs
During the visit, President Muizzu held consultations with members of the Maafaru Island Council, the Women's Development Committee (WDC), and leaders of key institutions at the Fenaka Corporation branch. The meeting provided a forum for local stakeholders to present development concerns and institutional challenges.
Among the issues raised were electricity supply disruptions and calls for improved health and education services. Additional discussion centred on infrastructure improvements to the airport terminal and harbour. Cabinet ministers and senior officials joined the president in outlining progress on active projects and reaffirming the administration's engagement with local priorities.
Utility Network Inaugurated, Island Gains Modern Services
A highlight of the visit was the formal commissioning of Maafaru's water and sewerage network, established by the Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC). The initiative places Maafaru among 20 islands where critical utility infrastructure was completed in December of the previous year.
The project encompassed the installation of a water plant, facility buildings, storage tanks, and primary pipelines for water and sewerage services. Individual household connections, pumping stations, sea outfalls, reject lines, and water testing equipment were also completed.
A total of USD 86.9 million was invested in these developments across the 20 islands. With Maafaru's system now operational, residents have secured access to clean drinking water and a reliable sewerage network. The government aims to extend similar services to all inhabited islands by the end of this year.
Ground Broken for New Police Facility on Maafaru
Earlier that morning, President Muizzu attended the foundation stone-laying ceremony for Maafaru's new police station. The event marked the official launch of construction activity. Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan laid the ceremonial foundation stone, alongside Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen. The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been contracted to deliver the project.
The police station initiative forms part of the government's broader policy to establish law enforcement facilities across all inhabited islands. Work is already underway, with the goal of completing this expansion within two years and reinforcing public safety and policing services nationwide.
President Begins Four-Day Visit Across Noonu Atoll
President Muizzu received a warm welcome upon arrival at Maafaru International Airport, the first stop on his official tour of Noonu Atoll. The five-day itinerary, spanning 21-24 July, includes visits to Hen'badhoo, Holhudhoo, Lhohi, Kudafari, Ken'dhikulhudhoo, Velidhoo, Manadhoo, Magoodhoo, Maalhendhoo, Miladhoo, Fodhdhoo, and Landhoo.