Maldives Welcomes the Launch of New International Terminal for Tourists

The Maldives, the tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean, has recently welcomed the launch of its new international terminal for tourists at Velana International Airport. The new terminal, which is designed to provide a seamless travel experience to visitors, has been built with state-of-the-art facilities and technologies that meet international standards.

The new terminal, constructed at a cost of 800 million Maldivian Rufiyaa, aims to cater to the growing number of tourists visiting the country every year. The Maldives is a popular tourist destination known for its exquisite beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. With the inauguration of the new terminal, the country hopes to increase its tourist arrivals and offer them a world-class experience.

The new terminal covers an area of 78,000 square meters and has the capacity to handle 7.5 million passengers per year. It is equipped with 44 immigration counters, 11 passenger boarding bridges, and 30 aircraft parking places. The terminal also features a range of modern facilities, including a duty-free shopping area, lounges for VIPs and business class passengers, and food and beverage outlets.

The terminal was inaugurated by the Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who highlighted the importance of tourism for the country's economy. He stated that the new terminal would help to boost the country's tourism sector, create job opportunities, and generate revenue for the government.

In addition to the new terminal, the Maldives has also implemented a range of measures to ensure the safety and security of its visitors. The country has introduced the "Safe Tourism Initiative," which includes enhanced cleaning and sanitization measures, mandatory mask-wearing in public areas, and social distancing protocols. The initiative also provides free COVID-19 testing for tourists upon arrival and departure.

The country has also introduced the "Maldives Border Miles" loyalty program, which rewards frequent visitors with additional benefits and privileges. The program aims to encourage tourists to return to the Maldives and strengthen the country's position as a leading tourist destination.

The Maldives has been heralded as an example of sustainable tourism in recent years. The country has been recognized for its efforts to preserve its natural resources and protect its marine life. The government has implemented a range of environmental protection measures, including the establishment of marine protected areas and a ban on single-use plastics.

The launch of the new international terminal is an important milestone for the Maldives as it looks to bounce back from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its tourism industry. With the implementation of new safety protocols and the introduction of innovative initiatives like the Maldives Border Miles program, the country is well-positioned to attract tourists and promote sustainable tourism in the years to come.

Conclusion

The new international terminal at Velana International Airport is a significant development for the Maldives as it seeks to expand its tourism industry and provide visitors with a world-class experience. With its state-of-the-art facilities, modern amenities, and enhanced safety protocols, the new terminal is a testament to the country's commitment to sustainable tourism and economic growth. As visitors are welcomed back to the Maldives, they can look forward to a seamless and enjoyable journey through the new international terminal.